German Phrase
Schau dir die Schilder für dein Ziel an.
Meaning
The sentence tells someone to look at the signs that point toward their goal. It can be used literally (road signs) or metaphorically (indicators that help you achieve something).
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to give advice about finding direction—whether you’re guiding a traveler, a student, or a friend who is looking for motivation.
✦Grammar Breakdown
SchaudirdieSchilderfürdeinZielan
Schau (imperative)
‘Schau’ is the informal singular imperative of the verb ‘schauen’ (to look). It is used for giving a direct command to a friend or peer.
dir (reflexive dative)
‘dir’ is the dative reflexive pronoun that pairs with the separable verb ‘anschauen’. It indicates that the action is directed at the listener.
die Schilder (accusative plural)
‘die Schilder’ is the plural accusative form of ‘das Schild’ (sign). It is the direct object of the verb.
für (preposition + accusative)
‘für’ always governs the accusative case. Here it introduces the purpose ‘dein Ziel’.
dein Ziel (possessive + noun)
‘dein’ is a possessive adjective that agrees with the masculine noun ‘Ziel’ in the accusative.
an (separable prefix)
‘an’ is the separable prefix of ‘anschauen’. In main clauses it moves to the end of the sentence.
🗨In Conversation
Ich weiß nicht, wo ich anfangen soll.
I don’t know where to start.
Schau dir die Schilder für dein Ziel an.
Look at the signs for your goal.
✕Common Mistakes
Schau du die Schilder für dein Ziel an.
The reflexive pronoun must be dative ‘dir’, not the nominative ‘du’.
Schau dir die Schildern für dein Ziel an.
‘Schilder’ is already plural; adding ‘-n’ creates a non‑existent form.
Schau dir die Schilder für dein Zieles an.
‘für’ takes the accusative, so the noun stays ‘Ziel’, not ‘Zieles’.
↔Alternatives
Sieh dir die Schilder für dein Ziel an.
Take a look at the signs for your goal.
Betrachte die Schilder, die zu deinem Ziel führen.
Consider the signs that lead to your goal.
Achte auf die Schilder, die dich zu deinem Ziel bringen.
Pay attention to the signs that bring you to your goal.
Cultural Tip
In German the informal imperative ‘Schau dir … an’ is common among friends or peers. In a formal setting you would replace ‘dir’ with ‘sich’ and use ‘Schauen Sie sich … an’. Also, Germans love clear, concrete directions, so pairing a literal sign with a metaphorical one feels natural and persuasive.