01
vorüber
over
Describes that something has passed in time, ended, or been completed.
example
Der Sturm ist endlich vorüber und die Sonne scheint wieder.
The storm is finally over, and the sun is shining again.
vorüber
over / past
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Meanings
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Usage tips
As a separable prefix
'Vorüber' (over/past) is very often the prefix of separable verbs such as 'vorübergehen' (to pass by / to be over) or 'vorüberfahren' (to drive past). In main clauses, the prefix stands at the end of the sentence; in subordinate clauses and in the infinitive, it remains attached to the verb.
EXAMPLE
Ein Gewitter zieht gerade vorüber.
A thunderstorm is passing by right now.
Sentence structure with 'sein'
In the temporal meaning, 'vorüber' (over) is almost always used with the verb 'sein' (to be). The structure is: [something] ist / war vorüber ([something] is / was over).
EXAMPLE
Die schlimmste Zeit ist jetzt vorüber.
The worst time is now over.
Use with 'an'
In the spatial meaning, 'vorüber' (past) is often combined with the preposition 'an' + dative. This expresses which place or person someone goes or drives past.
EXAMPLE
Er ist an mir vorübergegangen, ohne mich zu grüßen.
He walked past me without greeting me.
Compare with
vorüber vs vorbei
over / past
'vorbei' and 'vorüber' can be very similar. Both can say that something is over, and both can describe movement past a place. 'vorbei' is very common in everyday language and sounds natural in many situations. 'vorüber' often sounds a bit more elevated or written, especially when it is about time. With movement, you often encounter 'vorüber' in verbs like 'vorübergehen' (to go past) or 'vorüberfahren' (to drive past). Learners may confuse the words because they often mean almost the same thing. In everyday language, 'vorbei' is usually the safe choice; 'vorüber' fits well when the sentence sounds a little more formal or narrative.
vorüber
Als der Krankenwagen vorüberfuhr, blieben die Leute kurz stehen.
When the ambulance drove past, people stopped for a moment.
vorbei
Die Prüfung ist vorbei, und alle Schüler sind erleichtert.
The exam is over, and all the students are relieved.
In real life
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