German Phrase
Fahr sofort an den Straßenrand. Mach den Motor aus. Lass ihn abkühlen.
Meaning
This phrase is a series of urgent commands given when a vehicle is experiencing a problem, such as overheating. It instructs the driver to pull over, shut off the engine, and allow it to cool down to prevent further damage or danger. It's a direct and practical instruction for an emergency situation.
When to use
You would use this phrase in an emergency situation, typically when you are a passenger or a mechanic instructing a driver whose car is showing signs of trouble, like an overheating engine light or smoke. It's a direct and urgent command to ensure safety and prevent further damage to the vehicle.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Fahrsofortan den Straßenrand.Machden Motoraus.Lassihnabkühlen.
Fahr (Imperative)
'Fahr' is the informal singular imperative form of the verb 'fahren' (to drive). It's a direct command to one person you address with 'du'.
an den Straßenrand (Prepositional Phrase)
'An' is a two-way preposition here, taking the accusative case ('den Straßenrand') because it indicates movement towards a destination. 'Straßenrand' means 'roadside'.
Mach ... aus (Separable Verb)
'Ausmachen' is a separable verb meaning 'to turn off'. In a main clause, the prefix 'aus' separates and goes to the end of the sentence. 'Mach' is the informal singular imperative of 'machen' (to make/do/turn).
Lass ... abkühlen (Modal-like Verb)
'Lassen' (to let/allow) is used here similarly to a modal verb, followed by an infinitive ('abkühlen'). 'Abkühlen' is a separable verb meaning 'to cool down'.
ihn (Pronoun)
'Ihn' is the accusative masculine pronoun, referring back to 'der Motor' (the engine). It means 'him' or 'it' for masculine nouns.
🗨In Conversation
Oh nein, die Temperaturanzeige ist im roten Bereich!
Oh no, the temperature gauge is in the red zone!
Fahr sofort an den Straßenrand. Mach den Motor aus. Lass ihn abkühlen.
Drive immediately to the side of the road. Turn the engine off. Let it cool down.
✕Common Mistakes
Fahre sofort auf den Straßenrand.
The correct preposition for 'to the side of the road' is 'an' (to/at) with the accusative case, not 'auf' (on/upon).
Mache den Motor aus.
While 'mache' is grammatically correct for the informal singular imperative, 'mach' is much more common and natural in spoken German, especially for urgent commands.
Lass es abkühlen.
The pronoun 'es' (it) refers to a neuter noun. 'Motor' is masculine, so the correct pronoun is 'ihn' (him/it, accusative).
↔Alternatives
Halt sofort an.
Stop immediately.
Stell den Motor ab.
Turn off the engine.
Lass den Wagen ausrollen.
Let the car roll to a stop.
Cultural Tip
Germans are known for their directness, especially in urgent or practical situations. This phrase exemplifies that; it's a clear, concise, and unambiguous set of instructions. In a car-centric culture like Germany's, understanding and reacting quickly to such commands related to vehicle safety is highly valued. Roadside assistance (ADAC) is also a common and reliable service.