nach|holen
Translation
to catch up on, to make up for, to retake (an exam)
Examples
Ich muss den verpassten Unterricht nachholen.
I have to catch up on the missed class.
Sie versucht, den Schlaf nachzuholen.
She is trying to catch up on sleep.
Er muss die Prüfung nachholen.
He has to retake the exam.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to catch up on (sth.) I have to catch up on a lot of work.
Similar Words
Synonyms: to catch up, to make up for; Antonyms: to miss
Etymology
From 'nach-' (after) + 'holen' (to get, to fetch). Literally 'to fetch afterwards'.
Memory Tips
Think of 'holen' (to get) and 'nach' (after). You are 'getting' something 'after' the normal time, like catching up on sleep.