Überholen

Überholen is a German verb with several related senses. The primary meanings are to pass another vehicle on a road, to surpass someone or something, and to overhaul or refurbish machinery or systems. The verb is formed from über- (over) and holen (to fetch).

In road traffic, überholen means to move ahead of a slower vehicle by using an open gap in traffic. It requires signaling, a safe distance, good visibility, and compliance with local rules. Rules differ by country; in many German-speaking contexts, overtaking is performed on the left, and overtaking on the right is usually forbidden. Overtaking is typically prohibited in curves, at intersections, or where visibility is limited.

In technical and mechanical contexts, überholen means to overhaul or refurbish a machine, engine, or system. A Generalüberholung is a full refurbishment, including inspection, repair, and replacement of worn parts.

Figuratively, the verb can mean to catch up with or surpass someone in performance, time, or points: for example, to overtake a rival or to surpass a record (einen Rekord überholen). The past participle is überholt, as in “Der Fahrer hat den Bus überholt.”