01
überrollen
to run over
To drive over someone or something with a vehicle.
example
Der Lastwagen hat das umgefallene Verkehrsschild überrollt.
The truck ran over the fallen traffic sign.
überrollen
to run over / overwhelm
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Inseparable verb
'Überrollen' (to run over / overwhelm) is an inseparable verb. The prefix 'über-' always stays at the beginning of the verb, including in main clauses and in the past participle.
EXAMPLE
Eine riesige Welle überrollte den Strand.
A huge wave rolled over the beach.
Context clue
The context makes the meaning clear: If it is about a vehicle, the literal meaning is intended. In sports or military contexts, it is about overpowering someone. If feelings or events are the subject, it means emotional overwhelm.
EXAMPLE
Pass auf, dass der Gabelstapler dich nicht überrollt!
Watch out that the forklift doesn't run you over!
Typical collocations
In the figurative sense of 'überwältigen' (to overwhelm), 'überrollen' (to overwhelm) is often used in sports or military contexts. Typical objects are 'den Gegner' (the opponent), 'die feindlichen Linien' (the enemy lines), or 'die andere Mannschaft' (the other team).
EXAMPLE
Die schnelle Offensive überrollte die Verteidigung des Gegners.
The fast offensive overwhelmed the opponent's defense.
Sentence structure with emotions
When it is about feelings or events, the subject is often something abstract like 'eine Welle' (a wave), 'die Ereignisse' (the events), or 'eine Nachricht' (a piece of news). The person who feels something is then the accusative object.
EXAMPLE
Die Ereignisse der letzten Woche haben mich einfach überrollt.
The events of the last week simply overwhelmed me.
Compare with
überrollen vs besiegen
to defeat
'besiegen' and 'überrollen' can both describe one side winning against another. 'besiegen' is neutral and simply says that someone wins in a game, fight, or competition. 'überrollen' is stronger and more figurative. It means that someone overwhelms the opponent very quickly and with great force. The word fits especially when the victory is very clear and the opponent has hardly any chance. For a normal or close victory, it is better to use 'besiegen'.
überrollen
In der ersten Halbzeit überrollt das Heimteam die Gäste mit fünf schnellen Toren.
In the first half, the home team overwhelms the visitors with five quick goals.
besiegen
Mein Kollege besiegt mich am Wochenende beim Schach.
My colleague beats me at chess on the weekend.
In real life
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