Meaning 1neutral · 82%
To take hold of or seize someone or something firmly.
Natural examples
Der Polizist ergriff den Arm des Flüchtenden.
The police officer seized the fleeing person’s arm.
Der Mechaniker ergriff den lockeren Griff, bevor er herunterfiel.
Before it fell, the mechanic grasped the loose handle.
Das Kind ergriff die Hand seines Vaters.
The child took its father’s hand.
Usage note
Ergreifen is strong and inseparable: ergreift, ergriff, hat ergriffen. The literal sense takes an accusative object.
Mini-lesson: ergreifen
To take hold of or seize someone or something firmly. Ergreifen is strong and inseparable: ergreift, ergriff, hat ergriffen. The literal sense takes an accusative object.
Check your learning
Choose one answer.Which definition matches «ergreifen»?