Hello there! Are you ready to embark on a linguistic journey to learn how to say “to go” in German? Great! In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways of expressing this concept. We will also delve into some helpful tips, examples, and even touch on regional variations if necessary. So, let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions for “To Go”
1. Gehen: The most common and straightforward way to say “to go” in a formal context is by using the verb “gehen.” For instance:
Ich gehe in die Schule. (I am going to school.)
2. Sich begeben: This formal expression is used to convey the idea of going to a specific place deliberately. Take a look at this example:
Ich begebe mich zum Meeting. (I am going to the meeting.)
3. Sich auf den Weg machen: This phrase emphasizes the act of setting off on a journey or starting to go somewhere. Here’s an example:
Ich mache mich auf den Weg nach Hause. (I am going home.)
Informal Ways to Express “To Go”
1. Losgehen: This casual expression is commonly used in everyday conversations. Here’s how you can use it:
Ich gehe los. (I am heading out.)
2. Wohin: In informal contexts, you can use “wohin” (where to) to ask someone where they are going:
Wohin gehst du? (Where are you going?)
3. Abhauen: This colloquial phrase is used when referring to “running off” or “taking off” quickly. It’s mostly used in informal conversations among friends, like this:
Lass uns abhauen! (Let’s go!)
Tips for Using “To Go” in German
1. Pay attention to proper conjugations: Just like any other verb in German, “to go” needs to be conjugated based on the subject. For instance:
Sie geht zur Party. (She is going to the party.)
2. Utilize prepositions: In German, prepositions play an essential role when indicating the destination or purpose of going. Some common ones used with “to go” include:
- in (to) – Ich gehe in den Park. (I am going to the park.)
- zu (to) – Wir gehen zur Universität. (We are going to the university.)
- nach (to) – Sie geht nach Hause. (She is going home.)
3. Differentiate between “gehen” and “fahren”: While both words imply “going,” “gehen” is used when referring to walking, whereas “fahren” is used for any other form of transportation. For example:
Ich gehe zur Arbeit. (I am going to work.)
Ich fahre mit dem Zug. (I am going by train.)
Examples of “To Go” in Different Contexts
1. Everyday activities:
- Ich gehe einkaufen. (I am going shopping.)
- Wir gehen spazieren. (We are going for a walk.)
2. Travel and destinations:
- Ich gehe in den Urlaub nach Italien. (I am going on vacation to Italy.)
- Wir gehen ins Kino. (We are going to the cinema.)
3. Social events:
- Ich gehe heute Abend mit Freunden aus. (I am going out with friends tonight.)
- Gehen wir zusammen auf die Party? (Shall we go to the party together?)
Regional Variations
German is spoken across different regions, and some variations in vocabulary might exist. However, when it comes to expressing “to go,” the variations are minimal. The phrases and expressions mentioned earlier are widely understood and used throughout the German-speaking countries, including Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
So, whether you find yourself strolling through the streets of Berlin, exploring the scenic beauty of the Austrian Alps, or indulging in Swiss chocolate in Zurich, you can confidently use the phrases you’ve learned to express “to go” without worrying about regional differences.
Now that you have learned various ways to say “to go” in German, remember to practice using these expressions in different contexts to enhance your German language skills. Have fun embracing the German language and enjoy your travels!
