Fangen Translations, meanings and synonyms

"Fangen" is used as verb with the meaning of "catch", "seize" or "grab".

Essential properties of "fangen"

Its most important properties are:

Properties

  • Infinitive: fangen
  • Simple past: fing
  • Participle: gefangen

See full conjugation of fangen

irregulartransitive
Note: These properties are not absolute. A transitive verb can be used intransitively and vice versa depending on context, and many verbs can be used reflexively even though they are not primarily reflexive.

Meanings of "fangen" + more translations, synonyms and antonyms

It has the meanings and uses detailed below:

1.) "To catch something moving"

📝 Some usage examples:
  1. Der Hund versucht den Ball zu fangen.The dog tries to catch the ball.
  2. Sie konnte den Dieb rechtzeitig fangen.She was able to catch the thief in time.
  3. Er hat einen großen Fisch gefangen.He caught a big fish.

2.) "To begin an activity"

📝 Some usage examples:
  1. Er wollte endlich mit der Arbeit anfangen.He finally wanted to start working.
  2. Wann fangen wir mit dem Projekt an?When do we start the project?
  3. Sie fängt an, das Buch zu lesen.She starts reading the book.

3.) "To capture or apprehend a person"

📝 Some usage examples:
  1. Die Polizei konnte den Verbrecher fangen.The police were able to capture the criminal.
  2. Er wurde beim Stehlen gefangen.He was caught stealing.
  3. Sie haben den spionierenden Agenten gefangen.They captured the spying agent.

4.) "To understand or comprehend"

📝 Some usage examples:
  1. Ich fange an, die Theorie zu verstehen.I'm starting to understand the theory.
  2. Du fängst es langsam an zu verstehen.You're slowly starting to get it.
  3. Er fängt den Sinn der Geschichte an.He's starting to grasp the meaning of the story.

5.) "To ignite or catch fire"

📝 Some usage examples:
  1. Das Holz fängt Feuer.The wood catches fire.
  2. Der Vorhang fängt an zu brennen.The curtain starts to burn.
  3. Das Papier fängt leicht an.The paper catches fire easily.
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