Overbrug

Overbrug is a Dutch verb meaning to bridge over or to span an obstacle, either literally by constructing a crossing or figuratively by overcoming a gap or difference. The word combines over- (across) with brug (bridge); the common infinitive is overbruggen, and the stem form used in conjugation is overbrug.

In the present tense, the verb takes standard endings: ik overbrug, jij overbrugt, hij overbrugt, wij overbruggen, jullie overbruggen, zij overbruggen. The past tense forms are overbrugde (singular) and overbrugden (plural), while the past participle is overbrugd. The perfect tense is formed with have/has: ik heb de kloof overbrugd, wij hebben de rivier overbrugd.

Usage of overbruggen covers both literal and figurative senses. Literally, it refers to crossing or spanning physical barriers, such as het overbruggen van een rivier with a bridge or another crossing structure. Figuratively, it denotes reconciling differences, connecting separated communities, or overcoming practical or conceptual gaps, as in policies designed to overbruggen sociale kloften or technologische divides.

Related terms include de overbrugging (the act of bridging or a bridging structure) and brug (bridge). The concept is common in civil engineering, urban planning, and discourse about social cohesion. In all contexts, overbruggen implies creating a passage or connection where one did not previously exist.