Traue niemandem
The English phrase 'trust no one' is translated into German as Traue niemandem.
Which one should you use?
Traue niemandem is an imperative command, whereas Niemand vertrauen is the infinitive phrase 'to trust no one'. The form Vertraue niemandem is a common synonym for Traue niemandem, using the verb vertrauen instead of trauen.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb trauen requires the dative case, which is why niemand (no one) becomes niemandem. If you are addressing a group of people (the informal 'you plural'), the imperative form changes from Traue to Traut in the phrase Traut niemandem.
Did you know?
- While trauen means 'to trust', it is also the root of the German word for marriage, Trauung. This links the concept of legal union with a fundamental act of trust.
- There is a subtle difference between saying Ich traue dir nicht and Ich vertraue dir nicht. The first questions a person's honesty, while the second questions their overall character or reliability.
- Saying Ich traue mich nicht does not mean 'I do not trust myself', but rather 'I do not dare'.
Examples in context
- Wenn es um Geschäfte geht, ist es wichtig, dass Sie niemandem vertrauen.When it comes to business, it is important that you trust no one.
- Wenn du wirklich vorsichtig sein möchtest, solltest du einfach niemandem vertrauen.If you want to be really cautious, simply trust no one.
- Traue niemandem in dieser Stadt.Trust no one in this city.
- In diesem Film heißt es: Traue niemandem.In this movie, it says: trust no one.
- Traue niemandem, der zu nett wirkt.Trust no one who seems too nice.
Example conversation
Julian and Sarah are discussing a mysterious thriller novel.
- JulianDie Hauptfigur ist sehr vorsichtig.The main character is very cautious.
- SarahJa, sie sagt: Traue niemandem.Yes, she says: trust no one.
- JulianDas ist eine düstere Nachricht.That is a gloomy message.
- SarahAber es passt zur Geschichte.But it fits the story.
