German Phrase
Halte dich an die Regeln für die Vorrangsitze.
Meaning
The sentence is a direct instruction to obey the specific rules that apply to priority seats, such as those reserved for people with disabilities, pregnant women, or the elderly.
When to use
You’ll hear this phrase on public transport announcements, in theaters, at stadiums, or on signage in any venue that provides designated priority seating.
✦Grammar Breakdown
HaltedichandieRegelnfürdieVorrangsitze
Reflexive Imperative
In German, many verbs that take a reflexive pronoun (e.g., sich an etwas halten) form the imperative by placing the pronoun after the verb: ‘Halte dich …’
Separable Prefix ‘an‑’
‘an‑’ is a separable prefix; in the imperative it moves to the end of the clause: ‘Halte dich an …’
Accusative Plural ‘die Regeln’
‘Regeln’ is a plural noun; the definite article ‘die’ marks the accusative case after the verb ‘halten an’.
Compound Noun ‘Vorrangsitze’
‘Vorrangsitze’ combines ‘Vorrang’ (priority) and ‘Sitze’ (seats) and is always plural.
🗨In Conversation
Entschuldigung, darf ich hier sitzen?
Excuse me, may I sit here?
Bitte halte dich an die Regeln für die Vorrangsitze.
Please follow the rules for the priority seats.
✕Common Mistakes
Halte die Regeln für die Vorrangsitze.
The verb ‘halten’ needs the reflexive pronoun when meaning ‘to follow’ – use ‘sich an etwas halten’.
Halte an die Regeln für die Vorrangsitze.
The separable prefix ‘an’ must be placed at the end of the clause in the imperative.
Halte dich an die Regeln für die Vorrangssitze.
The correct spelling is ‘Vorrangsitze’ (single ‘s’).
↔Alternatives
Befolge die Vorschriften für die Vorrangsitze.
Obey the regulations for the priority seats.
Achte auf die Regeln für die Vorrangsitze.
Pay attention to the rules for the priority seats.
Cultural Tip
In Germany, priority seats are not just a suggestion – they are protected by law. Violating the rule can lead to a fine, and socially it’s considered rude to ignore someone who needs the seat. When you see a ‘Vorrangssitz’ sign, assume the seat is for a person with a visible need unless the seat is clearly empty and no one is waiting.