A compound verb is a verb that consists of two or more words combined to create a new verb with a specific meaning.
In German, compound verbs are often formed by adding a prefix to a base verb.
These prefixes can either be separable (move to the end of the sentence in the main clause) or inseparable (stay attached to the verb).
Separable compound verbs
The prefix separates from the verb in the main clause.
Anrufen (to call):
Ich rufe dich an.
I am calling you.
Er steht früh auf.
He gets up early.
Inseparable compound verbs
The prefix remains attached to the verb.
Verstehen (to understand):
Ich verstehe dich.
I understand you.
Sie überlegt sich die Antwort.
She is considering the answer.