überraschen
Translation
to surprise, to astonish
Examples
Ich will dich zum Geburtstag überraschen.
I want to surprise you for your birthday.
Die Nachricht hat uns alle überrascht.
The news surprised us all.
Er überraschte sie mit einem Geschenk.
He surprised her with a gift.
Grammar Patterns
((sb.)) to surprise (sb.) The news surprised me.
((sb.)) ((with sth.)) to surprise (sb.) (with sth.) He surprised her with a gift.
Similar Words
Synonyms: erstaunen, verblüffen
Etymology
Composed of 'über-' (over) and 'rasch' (quick, swift). The idea is something coming over you quickly and unexpectedly.
Memory Tips
Imagine something 'rasch' (quick) jumping 'über' (over) a wall to surprise you.