German Phrase
Nimm die Hauptstraßen.
Meaning
A direct command meaning ‘Take the main streets.’ It is used when you want someone to follow the larger, more important roads rather than side streets or alleys.
When to use
Use this phrase when giving navigation instructions, especially in a city where the main thoroughfares are faster or more recognizable. It’s informal, so it fits conversations with friends, family, or peers.
✦Grammar Breakdown
NimmdieHauptstraßen
Imperativ (du)
The verb 'nehmen' forms the informal singular imperative by dropping the -en and adding - (Nimm).
Definite article (plural accusative)
‘die’ is the plural accusative form of the definite article, used here because ‘Hauptstraßen’ is the direct object.
Plural noun
‘Hauptstraßen’ is the plural of ‘Hauptstraße’ (main street). The -en ending marks the plural in the nominative and accusative.
🗨In Conversation
Wie komme ich zum Hauptbahnhof?
How do I get to the main train station?
Nimm die Hauptstraßen.
Take the main streets.
✕Common Mistakes
Nehmen Sie die Hauptstraßen.
This is formal; the original phrase is informal. Use ‘Nimm’ for friends or peers.
Nimm die Hauptstraße.
If you mean several main streets, you need the plural ‘Hauptstraßen’. ‘Hauptstraße’ is singular.
Nimm das Hauptstraßen.
‘das’ is neuter singular; the correct article for plural accusative is ‘die’.
↔Alternatives
Folge den Hauptstraßen.
Follow the main streets.
Benutze die Hauptstraßen.
Use the main streets.
Fahre über die Hauptstraßen.
Drive over the main streets.
Cultural Tip
In many German cities the Hauptstraße is the central commercial avenue, often bustling with traffic and shops. When giving directions to a tourist, mentioning the Hauptstraße(s) helps them stay on well‑signposted routes. Remember that ‘Hauptstraße’ is singular; use ‘die Hauptstraßen’ only when you refer to several main roads.