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German Phrase

Lass uns alte Sachen aussortieren.

/las ʊns ˈaltə ˈzaxn̩ ˈaʊ̯szɔʁˌtiːʁən/
Meaning"Let's sort out old things."
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Meaning

This phrase is a direct suggestion to begin the process of decluttering or organizing a space. It specifically focuses on identifying items that are no longer needed so they can be discarded, donated, or sold. The verb 'aussortieren' highlights the action of selecting specific items out of a larger group.

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When to use

Use this phrase when you are planning a spring cleaning, moving to a new home, or simply feel that your living space has become too crowded. It is a common and friendly way to propose a shared task with a partner or roommate.

✦Grammar Breakdown

LassunsalteSachenaussortieren

1

Lass uns

This is the standard way to say 'let's' in German, using the imperative of 'lassen' plus the reflexive pronoun 'uns'.

2

Separable Verb

'Aussortieren' is a separable verb. In this sentence, it remains in the infinitive at the end because 'lassen' acts as a modal-like auxiliary.

🗨In Conversation

A

Unser Keller ist total voll, wir finden nichts mehr.

Our basement is totally full, we can't find anything anymore.

Lass uns alte Sachen aussortieren.

Let's sort out old things.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Lass uns alte Sachen sortieren.

    Without the prefix 'aus-', the verb just means 'to sort' (put in order) rather than 'to sort out' (to discard/remove).

  • Lass uns alte Sachen ausortieren.

    The verb is spelled with a double 's' because it combines 'aus' and 'sortieren'.

↔Alternatives

  • Wir sollten mal ausmisten.

    We should declutter.

  • Lass uns Platz schaffen.

    Let's make some space.

de

Cultural Tip

Germans take 'Ordnung' (order) quite seriously, and 'aussortieren' is a regular part of household maintenance. The term 'ausmisten' is a more informal, colorful alternative that literally means 'to muck out a stable' but is used for any major decluttering effort.