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German Phrase

Bleib ruhig. Schau auf deine Karte oder dein GPS. Frag nach dem Weg.

/blaɪp ˈruːɪç. ʃaʊ̯ aʊ̯f ˈdaɪ̯nə ˈkartə ˈoːdɐ daɪ̯n ɡeːpeːˈɛs. fʁaːk naːx deːm veːk/
Meaning"Stay calm. Look at your map or your GPS. Ask for directions."
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Meaning

This phrase consists of three imperative commands designed to help someone who is lost. It emphasizes maintaining composure, utilizing available navigation tools, and seeking human assistance. The tone is direct and helpful, typical of German instructional advice.

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When to use

Use this phrase when giving advice to a friend or peer who is disoriented or lost during travel. It is appropriate for informal situations where you want to provide a clear, step-by-step solution to a stressful situation.

✦Grammar Breakdown

BleibruhigSchau aufdeine Karteoderdein GPSFrag nachdem Weg

1

Imperative (Du-form)

The verbs 'bleib', 'schau', and 'frag' are in the informal singular imperative. You drop the '-en' ending and the 'st' from the 'du' conjugation.

2

Preposition 'nach'

The verb 'fragen' is paired with 'nach' plus the dative case (dem Weg) to indicate what you are asking for.

3

Preposition 'auf'

'Schauen auf' takes the accusative case (deine Karte) when it refers to looking at a specific object or surface.

🗨In Conversation

A

Ich habe mich total verlaufen und mein Akku ist fast leer!

I am totally lost and my battery is almost dead!

Bleib ruhig. Schau auf deine Karte oder dein GPS. Frag nach dem Weg.

Stay calm. Look at your map or your GPS. Ask for directions.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Du bleib ruhig.

    In the German imperative for 'du', the personal pronoun is omitted.

  • Frag für den Weg.

    The verb 'fragen' requires the preposition 'nach' when asking for directions or information.

  • Schau in deine Karte.

    Use 'auf' when looking at a flat surface like a map or screen.

↔Alternatives

  • Keine Panik, nutze dein Handy.

    Don't panic, use your phone.

  • Beruhige dich und such den Weg auf Google Maps.

    Calm down and look for the way on Google Maps.

de

Cultural Tip

Germans are generally very helpful when asked for directions, but they appreciate directness. When following the advice to 'Frag nach dem Weg' with a stranger, remember to switch to the formal 'Sie' form, saying 'Entschuldigen Sie, ich habe mich verlaufen.'