German Phrase
Such nach dem Stop-Knopf oder der Schnur.
Meaning
This phrase is a practical instruction used to navigate public transportation in German-speaking regions. It directs someone to find the mechanism required to signal the driver to stop at the next station. It covers both modern push-buttons and traditional pull-cords found in older vehicles.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are helping a friend or a tourist on a bus or tram. It is specifically useful in older trams where a physical cord might be the only way to signal a stop.
✦Grammar Breakdown
SuchnachdemStop-KnopfoderderSchnur
Imperative (Such)
This is the command form of 'suchen'. In informal speech, the 'e' at the end is often dropped.
Dative Case
The preposition 'nach' always triggers the dative case, changing 'der Knopf' to 'dem Knopf' and 'die Schnur' to 'der Schnur'.
🗨In Conversation
Ich weiß nicht, wie ich hier aussteigen kann.
I don't know how to get off here.
Such nach dem Stop-Knopf oder der Schnur.
Look for the stop button or the cord.
✕Common Mistakes
Such für den Stop-Knopf.
In German, the verb 'suchen' uses the preposition 'nach' to mean 'look for', not 'für'.
Such nach die Schnur.
The preposition 'nach' requires the dative case, so 'die Schnur' becomes 'der Schnur'.
↔Alternatives
Drück bitte den Knopf.
Please press the button.
Du musst die Haltestelle anzeigen.
You have to signal the stop.
Cultural Tip
Public transport in Germany is highly efficient but requires passengers to be proactive. Always look for the 'Wagen hält' (car stopping) light after pressing the button to ensure the driver received your signal. In some older cities, the pull-cord is a nostalgic but functional part of the transit experience.