Zeig dich
The English phrase "show yourself" is translated into German as Zeig dich.
What does it mean word for word?
In the phrase Zeig dich, Zeig is the imperative form of zeigen (to show) and dich is the accusative form of du (you).
How does it change in a sentence?
Zeig dich is the informal imperative form used when addressing one person. The formal imperative version, Zeigen Sie sich, can be used for addressing one or more people politely.
Did you know?
- The word zeigen can also mean 'to point', so depending on the gesture, Zeig dich could be interpreted as 'point to yourself'.
- Using the formal Zeigen Sie sich can sometimes sound strangely cold or even accusatory, like a police officer demanding identification.
- While Zeig dich is a direct translation, a German speaker might say Komm raus ('come out') to achieve the same goal in a confrontation.
Examples in context
- Wenn du da bist, zeig dich!If you're there, show yourself.Tatoeba #12669382 by Waldelfe, translation #10131599 by DJ_Saidez
- Zeig dich und sag Hallo!Show yourself and say hello!
- Hey, ihr alle da! Zeigt euch mal!Hey, everyone! Show yourselves!
- Zeig dich endlich!Show yourself at last!
- Wenn du bereit bist, zeig dich.Show yourself when you are ready.
Example conversation
Julian is looking for Julia in their apartment.
- JulianJulia, wo bist du?Julia, where are you?
- JuliaIch bin hier im Flur.I am here in the hallway.
- JulianDann zeig dich doch bitte!Then show yourself, please!
- JuliaOkay, ich komme jetzt.Okay, I am coming now.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
