vorbeifließen

Vorbeifließen is a German verb that literally translates to "to flow past" or "to pass by." It is a common word used to describe the movement of something in a fluid manner, often in relation to time or a physical object. The verb is formed from the prefix "vorbei" (past, by) and the verb "fließen" (to flow).

In a literal sense, vorbeifließen can describe water flowing past an object, such as a boat or a bridge. It can also refer to the movement of air or other liquids. Beyond physical movement, the term is frequently used metaphorically to describe the passage of time. For example, one might say that time is vorbeifließen, meaning it is passing by quickly or without being noticed. Similarly, opportunities can be described as vorbeifließen if they are missed or not taken advantage of. The feeling of something being fleeting or ephemeral is often conveyed by this verb. It suggests a continuous and often unstoppable motion.