Understanding how to express simple phrases like “Let’s go” is crucial for effective communication in any language. In German, this seemingly straightforward phrase has several variations, each with its own nuances and appropriate contexts.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to mastering these expressions, ensuring you can confidently suggest a departure in any situation. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and practice you need to use these phrases correctly and naturally.
This article is designed for anyone studying German, from beginners just starting to grasp basic phrases to more advanced learners looking to refine their understanding of colloquial expressions. By the end of this article, you will have a firm grasp of the different ways to say “Let’s go” in German, along with their appropriate contexts and usage rules.
Table of Contents
- Definition: “Let’s Go” in German
- Structural Breakdown of German Equivalents
- Types and Categories of “Let’s Go” in German
- Examples of “Let’s Go” in German
- Usage Rules for “Let’s Go” in German
- Common Mistakes When Saying “Let’s Go” in German
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Definition: “Let’s Go” in German
The phrase “Let’s go” is a common expression used to suggest or propose a departure, an action, or the beginning of an activity. In German, there isn’t a single, direct translation, but rather several equivalent phrases that convey a similar meaning.
These phrases vary in formality, context, and the specific nuance they impart. Understanding these variations is key to using them appropriately.
The most common translations include “Gehen wir!”, “Auf geht’s!”, and “Los geht’s!”. Each of these phrases serves the same fundamental purpose as “Let’s go” in English, but they are used in slightly different situations. “Gehen wir!” is the most literal translation and is suitable for suggesting a physical departure. “Auf geht’s!” and “Los geht’s!” are more versatile and can be used to initiate a variety of activities or challenges.
Structural Breakdown of German Equivalents
To understand the nuances of these phrases, it’s important to analyze their structural components. Each phrase is constructed differently and carries its own weight in terms of emphasis and formality.
- “Gehen wir!”: This phrase is a simple combination of the verb “gehen” (to go) and the pronoun “wir” (we). The verb is conjugated in the first-person plural (wir) form. The exclamation mark indicates a suggestion or invitation.
- “Auf geht’s!”: This phrase consists of the preposition “auf” (on, up), the verb “gehen” (to go), and the suffix “-s”, which is a shortened form of “es” (it). The literal translation is something like “On it goes!” and it’s used to express enthusiasm and encouragement.
- “Los geht’s!”: Similar to “Auf geht’s!”, this phrase uses the adverb “los” (loose, off), the verb “gehen”, and the suffix “-s”. “Los” implies a starting point, so the phrase translates to something like “Off it goes!” or “Let’s get started!”.
- “Packen wir es!”: This phrase uses the verb “packen” (to pack, but also to tackle), the pronoun “wir” (we) and the pronoun “es” (it). This translates to “Let’s tackle it!”
- “Machen wir!”: This phrase uses the verb “machen” (to do, to make), the pronoun “wir” (we). This translates to “Let’s do it!”
Types and Categories of “Let’s Go” in German
The different German equivalents of “Let’s go” can be categorized based on their context and level of formality. Understanding these categories will help you choose the most appropriate phrase for each situation.
“Gehen wir!”
“Gehen wir!” is the most straightforward and literal translation of “Let’s go.” It is primarily used to suggest a physical departure or a change of location. It’s generally considered neutral in terms of formality and can be used in most everyday situations.
“Auf geht’s!”
“Auf geht’s!” is a more energetic and encouraging expression. It’s often used to initiate a task, a game, or any activity that requires enthusiasm.
It can also be used to encourage someone who is facing a challenge. This phrase is less about physical departure and more about starting something with vigor.
“Los geht’s!”
“Los geht’s!” is similar to “Auf geht’s!” but with a slightly different nuance. It emphasizes the beginning or starting point of an activity.
It’s often used when everyone is ready to begin and signals the commencement of something planned. Like “Auf geht’s!”, it’s versatile and can be used in various contexts.
“Packen wir es!”
“Packen wir es!” is a more proactive and determined expression. It translates to “Let’s tackle it!” or “Let’s handle it!”.
It’s used when facing a challenge or a difficult task, and it conveys a sense of determination and teamwork.
“Machen wir!”
“Machen wir!” is a general expression that translates to “Let’s do it!”. It’s less specific than the other options and can be used in a wide range of situations where you want to suggest doing something together.
It’s a simple and direct way to propose an action.
Examples of “Let’s Go” in German
To illustrate the usage of these phrases, here are several examples organized by category. These examples will help you understand the specific contexts in which each phrase is most appropriate.
The following table provides various examples of the phrase “Gehen wir!” in different contexts. Notice how it’s primarily used to suggest a physical departure or a change of location.
| English | German | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Let’s go to the park. | Gehen wir in den Park. | Suggesting a trip to the park. |
| Let’s go home. | Gehen wir nach Hause. | Suggesting returning home. |
| Let’s go to the cinema. | Gehen wir ins Kino. | Suggesting a trip to the cinema. |
| Let’s go eat something. | Gehen wir etwas essen. | Suggesting going to eat. |
| Let’s go for a walk. | Gehen wir spazieren. | Suggesting a walk. |
| Let’s go to the beach. | Gehen wir zum Strand. | Suggesting a trip to the beach. |
| Let’s go to the mountains. | Gehen wir in die Berge. | Suggesting a trip to the mountains. |
| Let’s go to the city center. | Gehen wir in die Innenstadt. | Suggesting a trip to the city center. |
| Let’s go to the countryside. | Gehen wir aufs Land. | Suggesting a trip to the countryside. |
| Let’s go to the museum. | Gehen wir ins Museum. | Suggesting a trip to the museum. |
| Let’s go to the library. | Gehen wir in die Bibliothek. | Suggesting a trip to the library. |
| Let’s go to the post office. | Gehen wir zur Post. | Suggesting a trip to the post office. |
| Let’s go to the train station. | Gehen wir zum Bahnhof. | Suggesting a trip to the train station. |
| Let’s go to the airport. | Gehen wir zum Flughafen. | Suggesting a trip to the airport. |
| Let’s go to the supermarket. | Gehen wir zum Supermarkt. | Suggesting a trip to the supermarket. |
| Let’s go to the bakery. | Gehen wir zur Bäckerei. | Suggesting a trip to the bakery. |
| Let’s go to the butcher. | Gehen wir zum Metzger. | Suggesting a trip to the butcher. |
| Let’s go to the pharmacy. | Gehen wir zur Apotheke. | Suggesting a trip to the pharmacy. |
| Let’s go to the doctor. | Gehen wir zum Arzt. | Suggesting a trip to the doctor. |
| Let’s go to the dentist. | Gehen wir zum Zahnarzt. | Suggesting a trip to the dentist. |
The following table provides examples of the phrase “Auf geht’s!” in various contexts. Notice how this phrase is used to initiate an activity or encourage someone.
| English | German | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Let’s go, team! We can do it! | Auf geht’s, Team! Wir schaffen das! | Encouraging a team. |
| Let’s go, let’s start the game! | Auf geht’s, das Spiel beginnt! | Starting a game. |
| Let’s go, time to work! | Auf geht’s, an die Arbeit! | Starting work. |
| Let’s go, it’s going to be a great day! | Auf geht’s, es wird ein toller Tag! | Starting the day with enthusiasm. |
| Let’s go, we have to hurry! | Auf geht’s, wir müssen uns beeilen! | Expressing urgency. |
| Let’s go, the show must go on! | Auf geht’s, die Show muss weitergehen! | Encouraging persistence. |
| Let’s go, let’s celebrate! | Auf geht’s, lasst uns feiern! | Starting a celebration. |
| Let’s go, let’s try again! | Auf geht’s, versuchen wir es noch einmal! | Encouraging another attempt. |
| Let’s go, let’s get started with the project! | Auf geht’s, fangen wir mit dem Projekt an! | Starting a project. |
| Let’s go, let’s learn something new! | Auf geht’s, lernen wir etwas Neues! | Encouraging learning. |
| Let’s go, let’s sing a song! | Auf geht’s, singen wir ein Lied! | Starting a song. |
| Let’s go, let’s dance! | Auf geht’s, lasst uns tanzen! | Starting a dance. |
| Let’s go, let’s have fun! | Auf geht’s, lasst uns Spaß haben! | Encouraging fun. |
| Let’s go, let’s be creative! | Auf geht’s, lasst uns kreativ sein! | Encouraging creativity. |
| Let’s go, let’s explore! | Auf geht’s, lasst uns erkunden! | Encouraging exploration. |
| Let’s go, let’s discover! | Auf geht’s, lasst uns entdecken! | Encouraging discovery. |
| Let’s go, let’s achieve our goals! | Auf geht’s, lasst uns unsere Ziele erreichen! | Encouraging goal achievement. |
| Let’s go, let’s make a difference! | Auf geht’s, lasst uns etwas bewegen! | Encouraging positive change. |
| Let’s go, let’s make memories! | Auf geht’s, lasst uns Erinnerungen schaffen! | Encouraging memory creation. |
| Let’s go, let’s live life to the fullest! | Auf geht’s, lasst uns das Leben in vollen Zügen genießen! | Encouraging a full life. |
The following table provides examples of the phrase “Los geht’s!” in various contexts. This one often signals the start of something that is about to commence.
| English | German | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Let’s go, the movie is starting! | Los geht’s, der Film fängt an! | Starting a movie. |
| Let’s go, the meeting is about to begin! | Los geht’s, die Besprechung beginnt gleich! | Starting a meeting. |
| Let’s go, the concert is starting! | Los geht’s, das Konzert beginnt! | Starting a concert. |
| Let’s go, the race is starting! | Los geht’s, das Rennen beginnt! | Starting a race. |
| Let’s go, the journey begins! | Los geht’s, die Reise beginnt! | Starting a journey. |
| Let’s go, the adventure begins! | Los geht’s, das Abenteuer beginnt! | Starting an adventure. |
| Let’s go, the experiment begins! | Los geht’s, das Experiment beginnt! | Starting an experiment. |
| Let’s go, the lesson begins! | Los geht’s, die Lektion beginnt! | Starting a lesson. |
| Let’s go, the performance begins! | Los geht’s, die Vorstellung beginnt! | Starting a performance. |
| Let’s go, the game begins! | Los geht’s, das Spiel beginnt! | Starting a game. |
| Let’s go, the presentation begins! | Los geht’s, die Präsentation beginnt! | Starting a presentation. |
| Let’s go, the discussion begins! | Los geht’s, die Diskussion beginnt! | Starting a discussion. |
| Let’s go, the debate begins! | Los geht’s, die Debatte beginnt! | Starting a debate. |
| Let’s go, the negotiations begin! | Los geht’s, die Verhandlungen beginnen! | Starting negotiations. |
| Let’s go, the project begins! | Los geht’s, das Projekt beginnt! | Starting a project. |
| Let’s go, the challenge begins! | Los geht’s, die Herausforderung beginnt! | Starting a challenge. |
| Let’s go, the competition begins! | Los geht’s, der Wettbewerb beginnt! | Starting a competition. |
| Let’s go, the test begins! | Los geht’s, der Test beginnt! | Starting a test. |
| Let’s go, the exam begins! | Los geht’s, die Prüfung beginnt! | Starting an exam. |
| Let’s go, the session begins! | Los geht’s, die Sitzung beginnt! | Starting a session. |
The following table provides examples of the phrase “Packen wir es!” in various contexts. It’s used when facing a challenge or a difficult task.
| English | German | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Let’s tackle this problem together! | Packen wir das Problem zusammen! | Addressing a problem. |
| Let’s handle this difficult situation! | Packen wir diese schwierige Situation! | Addressing a difficult situation. |
| Let’s overcome this obstacle! | Packen wir dieses Hindernis! | Overcoming an obstacle. |
| Let’s master this challenge! | Packen wir diese Herausforderung! | Mastering a challenge. |
| Let’s solve this puzzle! | Packen wir dieses Rätsel! | Solving a puzzle. |
| Let’s tackle this project! | Packen wir dieses Projekt! | Addressing a project. |
| Let’s handle this responsibility! | Packen wir diese Verantwortung! | Addressing a responsibility. |
| Let’s overcome this fear! | Packen wir diese Angst! | Overcoming a fear. |
| Let’s master this skill! | Packen wir diese Fähigkeit! | Mastering a skill. |
| Let’s solve this mystery! | Packen wir dieses Geheimnis! | Solving a mystery. |
| Let’s tackle this assignment! | Packen wir diese Aufgabe! | Addressing an assignment. |
| Let’s handle this issue! | Packen wir dieses Problem! | Addressing an issue. |
| Let’s overcome this difficulty! | Packen wir diese Schwierigkeit! | Overcoming a difficulty. |
| Let’s master this technique! | Packen wir diese Technik! | Mastering a technique. |
| Let’s solve this equation! | Packen wir diese Gleichung! | Solving an equation. |
| Let’s tackle this task! | Packen wir diese Aufgabe! | Addressing a task. |
| Let’s handle this situation calmly! | Packen wir diese Situation ruhig! | Addressing a situation calmly. |
| Let’s overcome this setback! | Packen wir diesen Rückschlag! | Overcoming a setback. |
| Let’s master this subject! | Packen wir dieses Thema! | Mastering a subject. |
| Let’s solve this problem efficiently! | Packen wir dieses Problem effizient! | Solving a problem efficiently. |
The following table provides examples of the phrase “Machen wir!” in various contexts. It’s a general expression to suggest doing something together.
| English | German | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Let’s do something fun! | Machen wir etwas Spaßiges! | Suggesting a fun activity. |
| Let’s do it right now! | Machen wir es jetzt! | Suggesting immediate action. |
| Let’s do our best! | Machen wir unser Bestes! | Encouraging effort. |
| Let’s do this together! | Machen wir das zusammen! | Suggesting collaboration. |
| Let’s do it quickly! | Machen wir es schnell! | Suggesting speed. |
| Let’s do something creative! | Machen wir etwas Kreatives! | Suggesting a creative activity. |
| Let’s do something productive! | Machen wir etwas Produktives! | Suggesting a productive activity. |
| Let’s do something relaxing! | Machen wir etwas Entspannendes! | Suggesting a relaxing activity. |
| Let’s do something exciting! | Machen wir etwas Aufregendes! | Suggesting an exciting activity. |
| Let’s do something memorable! | Machen wir etwas Unvergessliches! | Suggesting a memorable activity. |
| Let’s do something important! | Machen wir etwas Wichtiges! | Suggesting an important activity. |
| Let’s do something meaningful! | Machen wir etwas Sinnvolles! | Suggesting a meaningful activity. |
| Let’s do something challenging! | Machen wir etwas Herausforderndes! | Suggesting a challenging activity. |
| Let’s do something different! | Machen wir etwas Anderes! | Suggesting a different activity. |
| Let’s do something new! | Machen wir etwas Neues! | Suggesting a new activity. |
| Let’s do something simple! | Machen wir etwas Einfaches! | Suggesting a simple activity. |
| Let’s do something complex! | Machen wir etwas Komplexes! | Suggesting a complex activity. |
| Let’s do something together as a team! | Machen wir etwas zusammen als Team! | Suggesting a team activity. |
| Let’s do something good for the world! | Machen wir etwas Gutes für die Welt! | Suggesting a beneficial activity. |
| Let’s do something that makes us happy! | Machen wir etwas, das uns glücklich macht! | Suggesting a happiness-inducing activity. |
Usage Rules for “Let’s Go” in German
While the phrases “Gehen wir!”, “Auf geht’s!”, “Los geht’s!”, “Packen wir es!”, and “Machen wir!” all translate to “Let’s go” in English, their usage is governed by specific rules and contexts.
- “Gehen wir!”: This phrase is strictly for suggesting a physical departure or a change of location. It should not be used to initiate an activity or express encouragement.
- “Auf geht’s!”: This phrase is versatile and can be used to initiate activities, encourage effort, or express enthusiasm. It’s suitable for informal settings and team environments.
- “Los geht’s!”: This phrase is used to signal the commencement of a planned activity. It’s often used when everyone is ready to begin and serves as a cue to start.
- “Packen wir es!”: This phrase is specifically used when facing a challenge or a difficult task. It conveys a sense of determination and teamwork.
- “Machen wir!”: This phrase is a general expression for suggesting doing something together. It’s less specific and can be used in various situations.
It’s important to consider the context and the desired nuance when choosing the appropriate phrase. Using the wrong phrase can sound awkward or unnatural.
Common Mistakes When Saying “Let’s Go” in German
Learners often make common mistakes when using the German equivalents of “Let’s go.” Understanding these mistakes can help you avoid them and speak more fluently.
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Auf wir gehen! | Auf geht’s! | The word order is incorrect. “Auf geht’s!” is an idiomatic expression. |
| Los wir gehen! | Los geht’s! | Similar to “Auf geht’s!”, the word order is fixed. |
| Gehen auf! | Auf geht’s! | “Gehen” needs to be with “wir” for a suggestion or departure. |
| Wir gehen auf! | Auf geht’s! | Incorrect word order and meaning. |
| Packen gehen wir! | Gehen wir! | “Packen” has a different meaning and context. |
| Machen gehen wir! | Gehen wir! | “Machen” has a different meaning and context. |
| Gehen wir das Problem! | Packen wir das Problem! | “Gehen wir” is for physical departures, not tackling problems. |
| Machen wir ins Kino! | Gehen wir ins Kino! | “Machen wir” is a general suggestion, not specific to going somewhere. |
| Auf geht’s nach Hause! | Gehen wir nach Hause! | “Auf geht’s” is for starting activities, not suggesting going home. |
| Los geht’s zum Park! | Gehen wir in den Park! | “Los geht’s” is for starting planned activities, not suggesting a place to go. |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding of the different ways to say “Let’s go” in German with these practice exercises.
Exercise 1: Choose the Correct Phrase
Select the most appropriate German phrase for each English sentence.
| Question | Options | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| Let’s go to the restaurant. | a) Auf geht’s! b) Gehen wir! c) Los geht’s! | b) Gehen wir! |
| Let’s go, team! We can win! | a) Gehen wir! b) Los geht’s! c) Auf geht’s! | c) Auf geht’s! |
| Let’s go, the show is about to start. | a) Auf geht’s! b) Gehen wir! c) Los geht’s! | c) Los geht’s! |
| Let’s tackle this difficult task. | a) Gehen wir! b) Packen wir es! c) Machen wir! | b) Packen wir es! |
| Let’s do something fun this weekend. | a) Gehen wir! b) Auf geht’s! c) Machen wir! | c) Machen wir! |
| Let’s go to the beach. | a) Auf geht’s! b) Gehen wir! c) Los geht’s! | b) Gehen wir! |
| Let’s go, everyone, the meeting is starting. | a) Auf geht’s! b) Gehen wir! c) Los geht’s! | c) Los geht’s! |
| Let’s handle this problem together. | a) Gehen wir! b) Packen wir es! c) Machen wir! | b) Packen wir es! |
| Let’s do something exciting tonight. | a) Gehen wir! b) Auf geht’s! c) Machen wir! | c) Machen wir! |
| Let’s go, we’re going to be late. | a) Auf geht’s! b) Gehen wir! c) Los geht’s! | a) Auf geht’s! |
Exercise 2: Translation
Translate the following English sentences into German using the appropriate phrase.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Let’s go home now. | Gehen wir jetzt nach Hause. |
| Let’s go, let’s start the project. | Los geht’s, lasst uns das Projekt beginnen. |
| Let’s go, we can do it! | Auf geht’s, wir schaffen das! |
| Let’s tackle this challenge together. | Packen wir diese Herausforderung zusammen! |
| Let’s do something different today. | Machen wir heute etwas Anderes! |
| Let’s go to the mountains this weekend. | Gehen wir dieses Wochenende in die Berge. |
| Let’s go, the game is about to start. | Los geht’s, das Spiel beginnt gleich. |
| Let’s handle this situation calmly. | Packen wir diese Situation ruhig. |
| Let’s do our best in the exam. | Machen wir unser Bestes in der Prüfung. |
| Let’s go, we need to hurry. | Auf geht’s, wir müssen uns beeilen. |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, it’s useful to explore more nuanced aspects of these phrases, including regional variations and idiomatic uses.
- Regional Variations: In some regions of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, alternative expressions may be used. For example, in some parts of Austria, “Gemma!” (a colloquial shortening of “Gehen wir mal!”) is common.
- Idiomatic Uses: These phrases can also be used idiomatically to convey meanings beyond their literal translations. Understanding these nuances requires exposure to authentic German conversations and texts.
- Combining Phrases: It’s possible to combine these phrases with other expressions to add emphasis or clarity. For example, “Na, auf geht’s!” adds a sense of urgency to “Auf geht’s!”.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about saying “Let’s go” in German.
- Is “Gehen wir!” always appropriate for suggesting a departure?
Yes, “Gehen wir!” is generally appropriate for suggesting a physical departure in most situations. However, consider the context and formality when choosing the most suitable phrase. - When should I use “Auf geht’s!” instead of “Los geht