Achtung

Meaning and Usage

"Achtung" in German translates to "attention" in English. It is commonly used to call someone's attention or to signify alertness or warning.

Linguistic Analysis

"Achtung" is a single word without any specific prefix or suffix. Its etymology goes back to Middle High German "ahtunge," from Old High German "âhtunga," which is derived from "âhta" meaning "regard" or "attention."

Comparisons between German and English

The word "Achtung" has a direct equivalent in English as "attention," but it is more commonly used in German to signify a call for attention or as a warning.

Cultural Context

In German, "Achtung" is often used as a command to get someone's attention, similar to saying "attention" in English. It is also frequently seen in warning signs and notices, such as "Achtung! Rutschgefahr" (Caution! Risk of slipping).

Example Sentences

  1. Achtung! Bitte alle Passagiere des Zuges beachten!
  2. Achtung, Achtung! Hier spricht der Kapitän.

Memory Tips

To remember the meaning of "Achtung," think of it as a command or call to "pay attention" as it holds the same significance.

Additional Vocabulary

  • die Warnung (warning)
  • aufmerksam (attentive)
  • vorsichtig (cautious)

Gender and Plural (for nouns)

"Achtung" is a feminine noun, and its plural form is "die Achtungen."

Conjugation (for verbs)

N/A