pass auf dich auf
/pas aʊ̯f dɪç aʊ̯f/word by word
The German phrase for "stay safe" is pass auf dich auf.
This phrase is used as a warm parting expression among friends and family, similar to saying "take care" in English. While it can be translated as "stay safe", it is more commonly used as a warm way to say "take care" rather than a literal warning to avoid immediate physical danger.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, the phrase means "watch out for yourself" or "look after yourself".
Which one should you use?
The form pass auf dich auf is the informal version used with individuals. For a formal setting, use Passen Sie auf sich auf. To address a group of people informally, use passt auf euch auf.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase is in the imperative mood, which is used to give a command or a warm wish. The formal version uses the polite pronoun Sie and the corresponding reflexive pronoun sich. When addressing a group of people informally, the plural form passt auf euch auf is used.
How do you pronounce it?
/pas aʊ̯f dɪç aʊ̯f/
Did you know?
- The verb aufpassen is a separable verb, which means the prefix auf acts like a linguistic boomerang, often flying to the very end of the sentence even if the sentence is long.
- The word dich is a close relative of the Old Saxon word 'thī'. This highlights how the way Germans address 'you' has evolved from ancient Germanic roots.
- In German culture, to 'look after' someone is often conceptualized as 'paying attention' to them, similar to how one pays attention to a road while driving.
Examples in context
- Hey! Pass auf dich auf und melde dich später!Hey! Take care of yourself and text me later!
- Bitte pass auf dich auf.Please take care of yourself.
- Komm gut nach Hause und pass auf dich auf.Get home safely and stay safe.
Example conversation
Lukas and Hannah are saying goodbye at the train station.
- LukasMein Zug fährt jetzt ab, Hannah.My train is leaving now, Hannah.
- HannahSchon eine gute Fahrt, Lukas!Have a good trip, Lukas!
- LukasDanke, pass auf dich auf!Thanks, stay safe!
- HannahIch werde es tun, bis bald!I will, see you soon!
