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German Phrase

Ich räum das bald auf.

/ɪç ʁɔɪ̯m das balt aʊ̯f/
Meaning"I'll clean that up soon."
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Meaning

This phrase is a common way to express the intention to tidy up a specific area or object in the near future. It uses the separable verb 'aufräumen' and the adverb 'bald' to indicate a commitment to action. It often implies a casual promise to handle a mess without setting a strict deadline.

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When to use

Use this when a roommate or family member asks you to tidy something, or when you acknowledge a mess you've made. It is perfect for informal, everyday situations at home.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Ichräumdasbaldauf

1

Separable Verbs

The verb 'aufräumen' splits; the base 'räum' stays in the second position, while the prefix 'auf' goes to the very end.

2

Colloquial Shortening

'Räum' is a shortened version of 'räume'. In spoken German, the 'e' at the end of first-person singular verbs is frequently omitted.

🗨In Conversation

A

Wann machst du das Chaos in der Küche weg?

When are you clearing away the mess in the kitchen?

Keine Sorge, ich räum das bald auf.

Don't worry, I'll clean that up soon.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Ich aufräume das bald.

    Aufräumen is a separable verb; the prefix 'auf' must move to the end of the sentence.

  • Ich räume auf das bald.

    The direct object 'das' and the adverb 'bald' must come before the separable prefix 'auf'.

↔Alternatives

  • Ich mache später sauber.

    I'll clean up later.

  • Ich bringe das gleich in Ordnung.

    I'll tidy that up right away.

de

Cultural Tip

While Germans are often associated with 'Ordnung' (order), this phrase is a universal staple of shared living. In a German 'Wohngemeinschaft' (WG), saying 'bald' can be a way to negotiate chores, though expectations of cleanliness can vary significantly between households.