überfallen
Translation
to attack, to raid, to mug, to overcome (of feelings)
Examples
Die Räuber überfielen die Bank.
The robbers raided the bank.
Ein Gefühl der Müdigkeit überfiel mich.
A feeling of tiredness overcame me.
Grammar Patterns
((j-n/et4)) to attack/raid sb./sth. The enemies raided the village.
((j-n)) (for a feeling) to overcome sb. Suddenly, fear overcame him.
Similar Words
Synonyms: angreifen, attackieren (to attack)
Etymology
From 'über' (over) + 'fallen' (to fall). The image is of 'falling over' someone to attack them. It's an inseparable verb.
Memory Tips
Picture someone suddenly 'falling over' you in an attack. Remember it's inseparable, so the prefix doesn't split: 'Er überfiel mich.'