du schaffst das
The English phrase "you got this" can be translated into German as du schaffst das.
This expression is used to encourage someone and tell them that they are capable of succeeding. It is a common way to express confidence in someone's ability to complete a task or overcome a challenge.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, du schaffst das means "you manage that" or "you will achieve that".
Which one should you use?
Du schaffst das is a common way to say "You'll make it" or "You'll do it".
How does it change in a sentence?
Use Sie schaffen das when encouraging someone in a formal setting.
Did you know?
- The word schaffen is a 'contranym', meaning it can be its own opposite. While it means 'to achieve' in du schaffst das, in some contexts it can mean 'to damage' or 'to destroy'.
- While du schaffst das is supportive, Germans may also use the phrase Halt die Ohren steif, which literally means 'keep your ears stiff'. It is used in similar challenging situations to tell someone to stay resilient.
- The word du shares the same ancient roots as the archaic English word 'thou'. They both stem from the Proto-Indo-European root *túh₂, tracing a linguistic lineage back thousands of years.
Examples in context
- Du schaffst das bestimmt!You will definitely do it!
- Keine Sorge, du schaffst das.Don't worry, you got this.
- Du schaffst das heute ganz sicher.You will certainly succeed today.
Example conversation
Felix is nervous before a job interview and Hannah encourages him.
- HannahBist du nervös wegen des Gesprächs?Are you nervous about the interview?
- FelixJa, ich habe ein bisschen Angst.Yes, I am a little afraid.
- HannahHab keine Angst, du schaffst das!Don't be afraid, you got this!
- FelixDanke, das bedeutet mir viel.Thanks, that means a lot to me.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries das, du, CC BY-SA 4.0.
