German Phrase
Pass auf Taschendiebe auf.
Meaning
A direct warning meaning ‘Watch out for pickpockets.’ It uses the informal du‑imperative, so it’s suitable when speaking to a peer, a friend, or a child. The phrase is concise and urgent, perfect for crowded public places.
When to use
Use this sentence when you see a crowded market, a busy train station, a tourist hotspot, or any situation where pickpockets are likely. It’s also handy when giving a quick heads‑up to a traveling companion.
✦Grammar Breakdown
PassaufTaschendiebeauf
Imperative (du) of separable verb
‘aufpassen’ is a separable verb; in the du‑imperative the prefix ‘auf’ moves to the end: ‘Pass auf!’
Verb stem ‘pass’
The stem ‘pass’ comes from ‘aufpassen’; it is not the verb ‘passen’ (to fit).
Plural noun ‘Taschendiebe’
‘Taschendiebe’ is the plural of ‘der Taschendieb’ (pickpocket). No article is needed in this warning.
Word order with separable prefix
In a full sentence the prefix ‘auf’ appears at the end, after the object: ‘Pass auf … auf.’
🗨In Conversation
Pass auf Taschendiebe auf!
Watch out for pickpockets!
Danke, ich halte meine Tasche fest.
Thanks, I’ll keep my bag tight.
✕Common Mistakes
Pass Taschendiebe auf.
The separable prefix ‘auf’ must appear at the end of the sentence.
Auffpassen Sie auf die Taschendiebe.
‘Auffpassen’ is not a German verb; the correct verb is ‘aufpassen’.
Pass auf die Taschendiebe.
The article ‘die’ is unnecessary and sounds unnatural in this warning.
↔Alternatives
Achte auf Taschendiebe.
Pay attention to pickpockets.
Sei vorsichtig wegen Taschendieben.
Be careful because of pickpockets.
Vorsicht, Taschendiebe!
Caution, pickpockets!
Cultural Tip
Pickpocketing is a common concern in major German cities such as Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg, especially in tourist areas like the Brandenburg Gate or the Reeperbahn. Germans often use the verb ‘aufpassen’ for safety warnings, and the informal du‑imperative is acceptable among strangers when the tone is urgent. In more formal settings you would say ‘Passen Sie auf Taschendiebe auf.’