German Phrase
Die Karte zeigt, dass man links abbiegen muss.
Meaning
This phrase means that according to the map, turning left is a necessary action. It uses 'man' to indicate a general obligation or instruction, not directed at a specific person. The 'dass' clause introduces a subordinate clause explaining what the map shows.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are navigating, giving directions, or explaining information derived from a map. It's suitable for situations where you need to convey a general instruction or a necessary step based on a visual aid like a map or GPS.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Die Kartezeigtdassmanlinksabbiegenmuss
Die Karte zeigt
'Die Karte' means 'the map'. 'zeigt' is the third-person singular conjugation of 'zeigen' (to show). This forms the main clause of the sentence.
dass
'dass' is a subordinating conjunction that introduces a subordinate clause. It translates to 'that' and sends the conjugated verb to the end of its clause.
man
'Man' is an indefinite pronoun meaning 'one' or 'you' (in a general sense). It's used for general statements or instructions that apply to anyone, not a specific person.
links abbiegen
'links' means 'left'. 'abbiegen' is a separable verb meaning 'to turn off' or 'to turn'. In this context, it means 'to turn left'.
muss
'muss' is the third-person singular conjugation of the modal verb 'müssen' (to have to, must). In a 'dass' clause, the conjugated modal verb always goes to the very end of the clause.
🗨In Conversation
Wo müssen wir als Nächstes hin?
Where do we have to go next?
Die Karte zeigt, dass man links abbiegen muss.
The map shows that you have to turn left.
✕Common Mistakes
Die Karte zeigt, dass du links abbiegen musst.
While grammatically correct, 'du' makes the instruction personal. 'Man' is preferred for general, impersonal instructions or observations.
Die Karte zeigt, dass man muss links abbiegen.
In a 'dass' clause, the conjugated verb ('muss') must go to the very end of the clause. The infinitive 'abbiegen' precedes it.
Die Karte zeigt, dass man links abbiegen soll.
'Soll' implies a recommendation or suggestion, whereas 'muss' indicates a stronger necessity or obligation, which is usually the case when following map directions.
↔Alternatives
Laut Karte muss man links abbiegen.
According to the map, you have to turn left.
Die Karte besagt, dass man links abbiegen muss.
The map states that you have to turn left.
Man muss links abbiegen, das zeigt die Karte.
You have to turn left, the map shows that.
Cultural Tip
Germans tend to be quite direct when giving directions, and precision is often valued. Using 'man' for general instructions is very common and polite, avoiding singling out an individual. Always double-check your understanding of directions, especially in complex city layouts.