The verb "sobrecoger" is often used in the Spanish language to describe a sudden feeling of fear, surprise, or emotional intensity that takes someone by surprise. It conveys the sense of being overwhelmed or startled, often in a way that leaves a strong impression. The word is commonly used in both spoken and written contexts but may be more prevalent in literary or descriptive writing due to its emotional connotation.
The news of the accident overwhelmed the community.
El horror de la película sobrecogió a todos los espectadores.
The horror of the movie startled all the viewers.
Al ver la devastación, un sentimiento de tristeza me sobrecogió.
"Sobrecoger" is not typically used in idiomatic expressions but can appear in phrases that convey emotional reactions or responses. Here are a few examples illustrating its usage in slightly broader contexts:
Example: Estaba sobrecogido por un sentimiento de felicidad al ver a su familia.
Sobrecogido de temor
Example: El niño quedó sobrecogido de temor al escuchar el trueno.
Sobrecoger con una noticia
The term "sobrecoger" comes from the Spanish word "recoger," which means "to gather" or "to collect." The prefix "sobre-" implies an action that adds intensity or denotes something that affects someone strongly. Thus, "sobrecoger" etymologically conveys the sense of gathering emotions or feelings to an overwhelming degree.
Synonyms: - Aprehender (to apprehend) - Impactar (to impact) - Estremecer (to shake, to chill)
Antonyms: - Calmar (to calm) - Aliviar (to relieve) - Serenar (to soothe)