mach die Tür zu
To say 'close the door' in German, you use mach die Tür zu.
This phrase is a request or command to move a door from an open position to a closed one.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase uses the separable verb zumachen, which literally means 'to make closed'.
Which one should you use?
While zumachen is the common, colloquial way to say 'close', the verb schließen is more formal and is often found in written instructions or more formal contexts.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form mach die Tür zu is the imperative singular, used when addressing one person informally. If you are addressing a group of people informally, the imperative changes to Macht die Tür zu.
Did you know?
- While zumachen is used for doors, the same verb is used for 'zipping' a jacket or 'closing' your eyes.
- German distinguishes between 'closing' a door and 'locking' it, using the separate verb abschließen for the latter.
- The word Tür is a direct relative of the English word 'door', as both descended from the Proto-Germanic word durz.
Examples in context
- Mach die Tür zu.Close the door.Tatoeba #541133 by kroko, translation #405379 by brauliobezerra
- Mach die Tür zu! Es zieht wie Hechtsuppe.A strong draft is coming in. Close the door.This example shows the phrase being used when there is a strong draft.Tatoeba #1226592 by al_ex_an_der, translation #1577687 by rbbrbb
- Mach die Tür zu, wenn du auf dem Pott sitzt!Close the door when you're in the bathroom.This example uses the phrase in the context of being in the bathroom.Tatoeba #9611424 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #9511523 by DJ_Saidez
- Bitte schließen Sie die Tür.Please close the door.
- Mach bitte die Tür zu.Close the door, please.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Felix and Laura are entering their apartment.
- FelixKomm rein, Laura!Come in, Laura!
- LauraDanke, Felix.Thanks, Felix.
- FelixKannst du bitte die Tür zumachen?Can you please close the door?
- LauraKlar, ich mach die Tür zu.Sure, I'll close the door.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Tür, die, zu, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
