Ich mag Schildkröten
The English phrase "I like turtles" is translated into German as Ich mag Schildkröten.
Ich mag Schildkröten is used to express a general fondness for the species of turtles. If you wish to say you are "into" turtles in a colloquial way, you can say Ich stehe auf Schildkröten.
What does it mean word for word?
The word for turtle, Schildkröte, is a compound noun. It consists of Schild, meaning shield and Kröte, meaning toad, so it literally translates to "shield-toad".
How does it change in a sentence?
When expressing a general liking for turtles as a category, use the plural form without an article: Ich mag Schildkröten. If you are referring to a specific turtle, use the singular form with a definite article: Ich mag die Schildkröte.
Did you know?
- The word Kröte in Schildkröte is also used in the German idiom die Kröte schlucken, which means to accept something unpleasant or 'swallow a bitter pill'.
- The verb mögen used in Ich mag Schildkröten is related to the English word 'might', as both derive from a root meaning 'to be able'.
- In German, the word Schild can mean a 'shield' or a 'sign' like a storefront plaque, meaning Schildkröte could jokingly be seen as a 'sign-toad'.
Examples in context
- Ich mag Schildkröten.I like turtles.This sentence is useful for stating your fondness for turtles using Ich mag Schildkröten.Tatoeba #1905699 by Espi, translation #1383641 by russjohnson09
- Ich mag Schildkröten. Sie sind so faszinierend.I like turtles. They are so fascinating.
- Ich stehe total auf Schildkröten. Hab sogar eine als Haustier.I'm totally into turtles. I even have one as a pet.
- Ich mag Schildkröten sehr.I like turtles very much.
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about animals at the zoo.
- MaximilianMagst du die Tiere hier?Do you like the animals here?
- HannahJa, besonders die Schildkröten.Yes, especially the turtles.
- MaximilianIch mag Schildkröten auch.I like turtles too.
- HannahSie sind wirklich süß.They are really cute.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
