German Phrase
Folge den Schildern, bitte.
Meaning
A polite request telling someone to follow the signs. It combines a direct command with the courtesy word ‘bitte’, which makes the instruction sound friendly rather than abrupt.
When to use
Use this phrase when giving directions in public places such as airports, train stations, museums, or any setting where signs guide the way. It’s appropriate for informal ‘du’ address, e.g., speaking to a fellow traveler or a child.
✦Grammar Breakdown
FolgedenSchildern,bitte.
Imperative (du)
‘Folge’ is the du‑imperative of the verb ‘folgen’ (to follow); the verb stem drops the ‘en’ and adds –e.
Dative plural
‘den Schildern’ is the dative plural of ‘das Schild’; ‘folgen’ always takes the dative case.
Polite particle ‘bitte’
‘Bitte’ placed after the command softens the imperative and makes the request courteous.
🗨In Conversation
Entschuldigung, wie finde ich den Ausgang?
Excuse me, how do I find the exit?
Folge den Schildern, bitte.
Follow the signs, please.
✕Common Mistakes
Folgen den Schildern, bitte.
The verb must be in the du‑imperative ‘Folge’, not the infinitive ‘Folgen’.
Folge die Schilder, bitte.
‘Folgen’ requires the dative case, so ‘die Schilder’ (accusative) is incorrect; use ‘den Schildern’.
Bitte, folge den Schildern.
While understandable, placing ‘bitte’ before the command sounds less natural in German; it’s more common after the imperative.
↔Alternatives
Bitte den Schildern folgen.
Please follow the signs.
Folgen Sie bitte den Schildern.
Please follow the signs. (formal ‘Sie’)
Gehen Sie den Schildern nach, bitte.
Please go according to the signs.
Cultural Tip
German signage is usually very clear and abundant, especially in public transport hubs. Adding ‘bitte’ after an imperative is common etiquette and shows respect. In formal contexts (e.g., speaking to strangers you don’t know well), switch to the formal imperative: ‘Folgen Sie bitte den Schildern.’