Indtræffe

Indtræffe is a Danish verb meaning to occur, happen, or take place. It is used to describe events or incidents that come about within a certain timeframe. The term is primarily found in formal, literary, or historical writing; in everyday speech Danes more commonly say ske or finde sted.

Etymology and sense: the word combines the prefix ind- with the root træffe (to meet or to hit). Figuratively, indtræffe conveys that something arises or comes to pass inside a given period or situation. Over time its use has become more literary or administrative, rather than colloquial.

Conjugation and usage: indtræffe follows standard Danish verb patterns. The present tense is indtræffer, the past tense is indtraf, and the past participle or supine form is indtruffet. Because of its formal tone, the verb is often chosen for written narrative, legal texts, or formal reporting when stating that an event occurred.

Examples: "En voldsom storm indtraf i nat." "Begivenheden indtraf pludselig under mødet." "Det indtraf uden forvarsel." These examples illustrate how the verb signals that an event took place, rather than simply being anticipated or rumored.

See also: forekomme, ske, finde sted.