ein|holen
Translation
to catch up with, to overtake, to obtain, to get
Examples
Er hat den Läufer fast eingeholt.
He almost caught up with the runner.
Wir müssen erst eine Genehmigung einholen.
We first have to obtain a permit.
Die Vergangenheit hat ihn eingeholt.
The past has caught up with him.
Grammar Patterns
((j-n/et4)) einholen to catch up with (sb./sth.) The police officer is catching up with the thief.
((et4)) einholen to obtain (sth., e.g. advice, permission) You have to obtain information.
Similar Words
Synonyms: aufholen, erreichen, bekommen; Antonyms: zurückfallen, verlieren
Etymology
From the prefix `ein-` (in) + `holen` (to fetch, get). The idea is 'to fetch in', either by catching up to someone or by gathering information.
Memory Tips
Picture 'pulling in' a runner ahead of you in a race. Or 'fetching in' permission or advice.