German word

überwinden

Pronunciation

IPA/ˌyːbɐˈvɪndn̩/

Meaning

  • verbovercome

Example

Wir müssen unsere Angst überwinden.

We have to overcome our fear.

Illustration for überwinden (overcome)

More examples

Sie musste alte Gewohnheiten überwinden, um erfolgreich zu bleiben.

She had to overcome old habits in order to remain successful.

Core concept

A person pushes through a narrow barrier until the path ahead becomes clear.

Common phrases

  • Barrieren überwinden

    overcome barriers

  • Schwierigkeiten überwinden

    overcome difficulties

Similar words

sich durchringen: To summon the resolve to do something despite reluctance.
sich trauen: To dare to do something despite feeling afraid.
bewältigen: To handle and bring a major task or problem under control.

Definition in German

ein Hindernis, eine Angst oder eine Schwäche durch Willen oder Anstrengung besiegen

Word origin

The verb is an inherited Germanic formation from über ('over') and winden ('turn or twist'), with a later figurative sense of overcoming.

Usage tips

  • The reflexive form sich überwinden means to bring oneself to do something despite reluctance or fear.

Other meanings

  • get oververb
  • conquerverb

Opposites

Related words

  • überwundenovercomeadjective

Word lists with this word