German Phrase
Folge den Schildern.
Meaning
A direct instruction telling someone to follow the signs that are posted or displayed. It is commonly used when giving directions in public spaces such as airports, train stations, or city streets.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to guide someone to a location by pointing out that the posted signs will lead the way. It works well in informal contexts (talking to a friend) or in polite, neutral instructions (e.g., a museum guide speaking to visitors).
✦Grammar Breakdown
FolgedenSchildern
Imperative (2nd person singular)
‘Folge’ is the singular informal imperative of the verb ‘folgen’ (to follow).
Dative case
‘folgen’ always governs the dative; therefore the object ‘die Schilder’ becomes ‘den Schildern’ in the plural dative.
Plural dative ending ‘-n’
In the dative plural, most nouns add an ‘-n’ (or ‘-en’) ending, as in ‘Schilder → Schildern’.
🗨In Conversation
Wie finde ich das Museum?
How do I find the museum?
Folge den Schildern.
Follow the signs.
✕Common Mistakes
Folge die Schilder.
‘folgen’ requires the dative case, not the accusative.
Folge den Schild.
The noun must be plural when you refer to multiple signs; also the dative plural adds ‘-n’.
Folgen den Schildern.
‘Folgen’ is the 3rd‑person singular present tense, not the imperative.
↔Alternatives
Befolge die Schilder.
Obey the signs.
Sieh den Schildern nach.
Look at the signs.
Geh den Schildern entlang.
Go along the signs.
Cultural Tip
In German‑speaking countries signs are very clearly marked and often include arrows or numbers. Saying ‘Folge den Schildern’ is considered polite and neutral; avoid using the accusative ‘die Schilder’, which sounds ungrammatical to native ears. In formal settings you might use the polite ‘Sie’ form: ‘Folgen Sie den Schildern.’