German Phrase
Achte auf den Lärmpegel.
Meaning
A direct instruction meaning 'Pay attention to the noise level.' It tells the listener to be aware of how loud they are being and to keep the volume down if necessary.
When to use
Use this phrase in shared environments such as offices, libraries, coworking spaces, or at home with roommates when you want to remind someone to keep the noise down. It’s also handy during events that have a designated quiet time.
✦Grammar Breakdown
AchteaufdenLärmpegel
Imperative (Achte)
Use the singular informal imperative of 'achten' by dropping the infinitive ending and adding -e: 'Achte'.
Preposition 'auf' + Accusative
'auf' governs the accusative case when indicating direction or focus, here meaning 'pay attention to'.
Definite Article 'den'
Because 'Lärmpegel' is masculine, the accusative singular article is 'den'.
Compound Noun 'Lärmpegel'
'Lärm' (noise) + 'Pegel' (level) forms a common compound meaning 'noise level'.
🗨In Conversation
Achte auf den Lärmpegel.
Pay attention to the noise level.
Ja, ich werde leiser sein.
Yes, I’ll be quieter.
✕Common Mistakes
Achten auf den Lärmpegel.
The imperative singular informal form is 'Achte', not the infinitive 'Achten'.
Achte auf der Lärmpegel.
Because the noun is the object of 'auf', it must be in the accusative: 'den Lärmpegel'.
Achte darauf, auf den Lärmpegel zu achten.
When using the imperative, the verb comes first; the infinitive construction is redundant.
↔Alternatives
Pass auf den Geräuschpegel auf.
Watch the noise level.
Beachte den Lärmpegel.
Take note of the noise level.
Halte den Lärmpegel niedrig.
Keep the noise level low.
Cultural Tip
In German‑speaking countries there are strict "Ruhezeiten" (quiet hours), especially from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. and all day on Sundays. Being mindful of the Lärmpegel is not just polite—it’s often legally required in apartments and public buildings.