ein|holen
Translation
to catch up with, to obtain, to overtake, to haul in
Examples
Ich muss den Läufer vor mir einholen.
I have to catch up with the runner in front of me.
Wir müssen eine Genehmigung einholen.
We have to obtain a permit.
Der Fischer holt das Netz ein.
The fisherman is hauling in the net.
Grammar Patterns
((j-n/et4)) to catch up with sb./sth. The police officer caught up with the thief.
((et4)) ((von+3)) to obtain sth. from sb. He obtained advice from a lawyer.
Similar Words
Synonyms: aufholen (to catch up), überholen (to overtake); Antonyms: zurückfallen (to fall behind)
Etymology
From the prefix `ein-` (in, into) and the verb `holen` (to fetch). It literally means 'to fetch in'.
Memory Tips
Picture 'hauling in' a rope to close the gap, either to 'catch up' with someone or to 'obtain' information.