01
mitreißen
to captivate
To move someone emotionally, inspire them, and motivate them to join in.
example
Die Energie des Sängers hat das ganze Publikum mitgerissen.
The singer's energy captivated the whole audience.
mitreißen
to captivate / sweep away
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Mitreißen' (to captivate/sweep away) is a separable verb with the prefix 'mit-'. In a main clause, the prefix comes at the end. In subordinate clauses or in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Die Musik reißt einfach jeden mit.
The music simply captivates everyone.
Context clue
The meaning depends on the subject and object. If a person is moved by something abstract, such as Musik (music), Rede (speech), or Begeisterung (enthusiasm), the emotional meaning is intended. If a person or object is moved by a physical force, such as Fluss (river) or Sturm (storm), the literal meaning is intended.
EXAMPLE
Seine Begeisterung riss das ganze Team mit.
His enthusiasm swept up the whole team.
Word family
The very common adjective 'mitreißend' (captivating/gripping) is derived from this verb. It describes something that inspires and moves people emotionally, such as ein mitreißendes Konzert (a captivating concert) or ein mitreißender Film (a gripping film).
EXAMPLE
Das war ein wirklich mitreißendes Fußballspiel.
That was a truly thrilling football match.
Typical collocations
In the physical meaning, 'mitreißen' (to sweep away) is often used with strong forces of nature. Typical phrases are: 'von der Strömung mitgerissen werden' (to be swept away by the current) or 'vom Sturm mitgerissen werden' (to be swept away by the storm).
EXAMPLE
Das kleine Boot wurde von der starken Strömung mitgerissen.
The small boat was swept away by the strong current.
Compare with
mitreißen vs bewegen
to move
'bewegen' and 'mitreißen' can both describe someone being emotionally affected. 'bewegen' is broader: something can make someone sad, touch them emotionally, or move them to make a decision. 'mitreißen' is stronger and more active. It means that someone becomes enthusiastic and often wants to join in themselves. The words can be confused because both refer to a strong effect on people. When it is about being inwardly touched or persuaded, you are more likely to say 'bewegen'. When enthusiasm and shared energy are important, 'mitreißen' fits better.
mitreißen
Der Sänger riss das Publikum schon beim ersten Lied mit.
The singer captivated the audience from the very first song.
bewegen
Die Worte seines Freundes bewegten Max dazu, noch einmal neu anzufangen.
The words of his friend moved Max to make a fresh start.
In real life
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