ums Leben
Translation
to death, one's life (in context of losing it)
Examples
Bei dem Unfall kam er ums Leben.
He died in the accident.
Der Täter brachte ihn ums Leben.
The perpetrator killed him.
Grammar Patterns
ums Leben kommen to die, to be killed (e.g. in an accident) Many people died in the earthquake.
((j-n)) ums Leben bringen to kill (sb.) He killed her out of jealousy.
Similar Words
sterben (to die), getötet werden (to be killed)
Etymology
A contraction of "um das Leben" (around the life), suggesting that life has been circumvented or lost.
Memory Tips
Remember it as a set phrase. 'ums Leben kommen' = to die (passive), 'ums Leben bringen' = to kill (active).