befallen
to infest
To spread negatively over something or someone and damage it. Typically used for diseases, pests, or parasites.
EXAMPLE
Die Kartoffeln sind von einem Pilz befallen.
The potatoes are infested with a fungus.
befallen
to infest / overcome
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Meanings
befallen
to overcome
A negative feeling that suddenly and strongly takes hold of someone.
EXAMPLE
Als sie alleine im dunklen Wald war, befiel sie eine schreckliche Angst.
When she was alone in the dark forest, she was overcome by a terrible fear.
Usage tips
Inseparable verb
'Befallen' (to infest / overcome) is an inseparable verb. The prefix 'be-' remains firmly attached to the verb stem 'fallen' in all tenses and sentence constructions.
EXAMPLE
Ein seltsames Gefühl befiel ihn, als er das leere Haus betrat.
A strange feeling overcame him when he entered the empty house.
Use with accusative
This verb always requires an accusative object. The object is the person or thing that is affected by something (the subject).
EXAMPLE
Die Krankheit befällt vor allem ältere Menschen.
The disease mainly affects older people.
Context clue
You can recognize the meaning from the subject of the sentence. If it refers to pests or diseases, the first meaning is intended. If it refers to a feeling, the second meaning is intended.
EXAMPLE
Der Schimmel hat die Wände befallen.
The mold has infested the walls.
Often in the passive
Especially with diseases and pests, the passive form with 'sein' (to be) is often used. The thing that is affected becomes the subject of the sentence.
EXAMPLE
Viele Apfelbäume in der Region sind von einer neuen Krankheit befallen.
Many apple trees in the region are infested with a new disease.
Literary style
When 'befallen' (to overcome) is used with a feeling, it often sounds elevated or literary. It describes a sudden, strong, and often passive experience of the feeling.
EXAMPLE
Eine tiefe Traurigkeit befiel ihn nach der Nachricht.
A deep sadness overcame him after the news.
Compare with
befallen vs erfassen
to record / grasp
Both verbs can describe a strong feeling suddenly coming over someone. However, „befallen“ is limited to a negative, burdensome feeling, whereas „erfassen“ can also express other strong feelings. Use „erfassen“ for being overcome in general, and „befallen“ for a harmful or oppressive feeling.
befallen
Nach der Nachricht befiel ihn plötzlich große Angst.
After the news, he was suddenly overcome by great fear.
erfassen
Nach der Nachricht erfasste ihn tiefe Traurigkeit.
After the news, deep sadness overcame him.
In real life
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