German

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Etymology

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hinter- (behind, back) +‎ Treffen (battle) (18th century). Referred originally to the rear part of an army not taking part in a battle that would not partake in the benefits of victory.

Pronunciation

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  • IPA(key): /ˈhɪntɐˌtʁɛfn̩/
  • Hyphenation: Hin‧ter‧tref‧fen

Noun

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Hintertreffen n (strong, genitive Hintertreffens, plural Hintertreffen)

  1. disadvantage, disadvantageous position
    Er geriet ins Hintertreffen.
    He was put at a disadvantage

Declension

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Further reading

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