überqueren

Überqueren is a German verb that translates to "to cross" or "to traverse" in English. It describes the act of moving from one side of something to the other, often over a physical barrier or distance. The verb is commonly used in various contexts, ranging from literal crossings of physical objects to more abstract or metaphorical ones.

In its most literal sense, überqueren refers to crossing geographical features such as rivers (einen Fluss überqueren), streets (eine Straße überqueren), or mountains (einen Berg überqueren). This implies navigating across a defined space to reach the opposite side. It can also apply to crossing boundaries, such as crossing a border (eine Grenze überqueren) or crossing a threshold (eine Schwelle überqueren).

Beyond physical movement, überqueren can also be used metaphorically. For instance, one might überqueren a difficult phase in life (eine schwierige Phase überqueren) or überqueren a certain age (ein bestimmtes Alter überqueren), indicating the passage of time or the overcoming of a challenge. The concept of überqueren highlights the transition from one state or location to another, emphasizing the journey and the destination.