German Phrase
Wisch bitte die Arbeitsplatten ab.
Meaning
A polite request to clean the kitchen countertops. The speaker asks the listener to wipe the surfaces, using the informal 'du' form.
When to use
Use this sentence when you need someone to clean the kitchen right away, for example after cooking or when you’re preparing the space for guests.
✦Grammar Breakdown
WischbittedieArbeitsplattenab
Imperative (2nd person singular)
The verb 'wischen' drops the -en and adds - (e)sch for the du‑imperative: 'Wisch!'.
Separable verb 'abwischen'
The prefix 'ab' separates and moves to the end of the clause in the imperative: 'Wisch … ab.'
Polite particle 'bitte'
Placing 'bitte' after the verb softens the command and makes it courteous.
Accusative object
'die Arbeitsplatten' is plural accusative, the direct object of the verb.
🗨In Conversation
Wisch bitte die Arbeitsplatten ab.
Please wipe the countertops.
Klar, mache ich gleich.
Sure, I’ll do it right away.
✕Common Mistakes
Wische bitte die Arbeitsplatten ab.
The du‑imperative of 'wischen' is 'Wisch', not 'Wische'.
Wisch bitte die Arbeitsplatte ab.
The plural 'Arbeitsplatten' is needed because you’re referring to multiple countertops.
Wisch bitte die Arbeitsplatten abwischen.
In the imperative the separable prefix must be placed at the end, not attached to the verb stem.
↔Alternatives
Bitte wisch die Arbeitsplatten ab.
Please wipe the countertops.
Wisch die Arbeitsplatten bitte ab.
Wipe the countertops, please.
Wische bitte die Arbeitsplatten ab.
Please wipe the countertops.
Könntest du bitte die Arbeitsplatten abwischen?
Could you please wipe the countertops?
Cultural Tip
In German households, adding 'bitte' to an imperative is essential for politeness, especially with friends or family. The separable verb 'abwischen' is the standard term for wiping surfaces; using 'reinigen' would sound more formal or technical. Remember that 'Arbeitsplatte' refers to the kitchen counter, not a workbench.