beeilen en 30 secondes
- Beeilen means to hurry or rush.
- It is a reflexive verb (sich beeilen).
- Used when time is limited or a deadline is approaching.
- Common in everyday conversations and announcements.
The German verb beeilen translates directly to 'to hurry' or 'to rush' in English. It's a common and useful verb used in everyday situations when there's a need to act quickly or move faster than usual. You'll encounter this word when people are late for an appointment, trying to catch a train, or simply trying to get something done before a deadline.
- Core Meaning
- To speed up one's actions or movement.
- Common Scenarios
- When you are running late, when there is a time constraint, or when you need to be efficient.
Wir müssen uns beeilen, sonst verpassen wir den Zug!
The verb 'beeilen' is a reflexive verb, meaning it typically requires a reflexive pronoun (like 'sich' in German) to indicate that the action is being done to oneself. For example, 'Ich beeile mich' means 'I am hurrying myself' or simply 'I am hurrying'. This is a crucial grammatical point to remember when using this verb.
Komm, beeil dich!
It's used in a wide range of contexts, from casual conversations among friends to more formal announcements. For instance, a parent might tell their child to 'beeil dich' when they are taking too long to get ready. In a professional setting, a manager might remind their team to 'sich beeilen' to meet a project deadline.
- Reflexive Nature
- The verb 'sich beeilen' emphasizes that the subject is urging themselves to move or act faster.
- Everyday Usage
- Found in instructions, reminders, and expressions of urgency in various social and professional settings.
Wir müssen uns beeilen, sonst kommen wir zu spät zur Besprechung.
Mastering 'beeilen' involves understanding its reflexive nature and how it fits into different sentence structures. The most common form is 'sich beeilen', where 'sich' is replaced by the appropriate reflexive pronoun based on the subject of the sentence. This emphasizes that the subject is the one initiating and experiencing the act of hurrying.
- Basic Structure
- Subject + Reflexive Pronoun + Verb 'beeilen' + (Optional: Reason/Destination)
- Example
- Ich beeile mich, weil ich spät dran bin. (I am hurrying because I am late.)
Wir müssen uns beeilen, um den Sonnenuntergang zu sehen.
In questions, the verb often comes first, especially in direct commands. This makes the instruction or request very clear and direct.
- Imperative Form
- This is used to tell someone to hurry up.
- Example
- Beeil dich, bitte! (Hurry up, please!)
Warum beeilt du dich so?
The past tense (Perfekt) is formed with 'haben' and the past participle 'beeilt'.
- Perfekt Tense
- Used to talk about a past instance of hurrying.
- Example
- Sie hat sich sehr beeilt, um pünktlich zu sein. (She hurried a lot to be on time.)
Wir haben uns beeilt, aber es war zu spät.
When expressing the reason for hurrying, conjunctions like 'weil' (because) or 'damit' (so that) are frequently used, introducing a subordinate clause.
- Subordinate Clauses
- Explaining the motivation or purpose behind hurrying.
- Example
- Er musste sich beeilen, damit er den Bus noch erwischte. (He had to hurry so that he would still catch the bus.)
Bitte beeilen Sie sich, der Vortrag beginnt gleich.
You'll hear 'beeilen' and its forms in countless real-life situations in German-speaking countries. It's a staple in everyday conversation, from family homes to bustling city streets.
- Family and Home
- Parents often tell their children to 'sich beeilen' when they need to get ready for school, an appointment, or bedtime. For example, 'Kinder, wir müssen uns beeilen, sonst sind wir zu spät!' (Children, we have to hurry, otherwise we'll be too late!).
- Public Transport
- Announcements at train stations or airports might urge passengers to 'sich beeilen' to reach their gates or platforms on time. You might also hear fellow travelers saying, 'Komm, beeil dich, der Zug fährt gleich ab!' (Come on, hurry up, the train is leaving soon!).
Die Zeit drängt, wir müssen uns beeilen.
- Workplace and Professional Settings
- In a work environment, deadlines are common. A boss might say, 'Wir müssen uns beeilen, um dieses Projekt rechtzeitig abzuschließen.' (We have to hurry to finish this project on time.) Colleagues might also encourage each other to speed up.
- Social Gatherings
- When meeting friends, if someone is running late, they might text or call saying, 'Ich beeile mich!' (I'm hurrying!). Similarly, if a group is waiting for someone, they might say, 'Wo bleibt er? Er soll sich beeilen!' (Where is he? He should hurry up!).
Lass uns uns beeilen, bevor es dunkel wird.
Even in more formal contexts, like a public announcement or a news report about an event that needs to start on time, you might hear or read about the need to 'sich beeilen'. The urgency conveyed by the word makes it a frequent choice when time is a critical factor.
- Emergency Situations
- In urgent situations, like an emergency evacuation, instructions to 'sich beeilen' would be paramount.
Wir müssen uns beeilen, um den Abflug nicht zu verpassen.
Learners of German often make a few common mistakes when using the verb 'beeilen'. The most frequent error stems from forgetting its reflexive nature, or misconjugating the reflexive pronoun.
- Forgetting the Reflexive Pronoun
- Using 'beeilen' without a reflexive pronoun is grammatically incorrect in most contexts. For example, saying 'Ich beeile' instead of 'Ich beeile mich' is wrong. The action of hurrying is directed towards oneself, hence the need for the reflexive pronoun.
- Incorrect Reflexive Pronoun
- Another mistake is using the wrong reflexive pronoun for the subject. For instance, saying 'Du beeilt sich' instead of 'Du beeilst dich'. The pronoun must always agree with the subject: 'ich' goes with 'mich', 'du' with 'dich', 'er/sie/es' with 'sich', 'wir' with 'uns', 'ihr' with 'euch', and 'sie/Sie' with 'sich'.
Incorrect: Wir beeilen.
Correct: Wir beeilen uns.
- Confusing with 'eilen'
- While 'eilen' also means 'to hurry', it is not typically reflexive. Using 'sich eilen' is generally incorrect. 'Beeilen' is the standard reflexive verb for hurrying.
- Overuse or Underuse
- Some learners might avoid the verb altogether, opting for simpler phrases like 'schnell gehen' (to go quickly), which can sometimes lack the specific nuance of 'rushing'. Conversely, some might overuse it in situations where a more measured pace is implied.
Incorrect: Du beeilst.
Correct: Du beeilst dich.
Another potential pitfall is incorrect verb conjugation in different tenses. For instance, in the past participle, it remains 'beeilt', regardless of the subject, but the auxiliary verb ('haben') and the reflexive pronoun must still be correct.
- Tense Conjugation Errors
- Mistakes can occur with the auxiliary verb or the placement of the reflexive pronoun in compound tenses.
- Example
- Incorrect: 'Ich habe mich beeilt.' (Correct). Incorrect: 'Ich habe beeilt mich.' (Wrong order).
Incorrect: Er beeilt sich schnell.
Correct: Er beeilt sich schnell.
While 'beeilen' is the most common verb for 'to hurry', German offers several other words and phrases that convey similar meanings, each with slight nuances in usage and formality.
- Eilen
- Meaning: To hurry, to hasten.
Usage: 'Eilen' is generally not reflexive and often implies a more urgent or even desperate need to move quickly. It can sound more formal or literary than 'sich beeilen'.
Example: Die Ärzte eilten zur Unfallstelle. (The doctors hurried to the accident site.) - Sich sputen
- Meaning: To hurry up, to make haste.
Usage: Similar to 'sich beeilen', this is also a reflexive verb. It often implies a slightly more informal or colloquial sense of urgency, perhaps a bit more like 'scramble'.
Example: Sput dich, wir haben nicht viel Zeit! (Hurry up, we don't have much time!)
Alternative: Wir müssen uns sputen.
- Schnell sein
- Meaning: To be quick.
Usage: This is a more general phrase. It doesn't necessarily mean 'to rush' but rather to perform an action with speed. It's less about the act of hurrying and more about the state of being quick.
Example: Sei schnell, sonst ist alles weg! (Be quick, otherwise everything will be gone!) - Gas geben
- Meaning: To step on the gas, to speed up.
Usage: This is an idiomatic expression, often used colloquially, especially in contexts related to driving or when encouraging someone to increase their pace significantly.
Example: Wir müssen Gas geben, sonst kommen wir nie an.
Alternative: Die Zeit eilt.
- Sich aufraffen
- Meaning: To pull oneself together, to get moving.
Usage: This phrase implies overcoming inertia or laziness to start doing something, which often involves a degree of rushing or at least making a concerted effort to move faster.
Example: Er musste sich aufraffen, um seine Arbeit zu beenden.
When choosing an alternative, consider the context and the exact nuance you want to convey. 'Sich beeilen' is generally the safest and most natural choice for most situations involving a need to hurry.
- Summary Comparison
- Beeilen: Standard, reflexive, everyday hurry.
Eilen: More formal/urgent, non-reflexive.
Sich sputen: Similar to beeilen, slightly more colloquial.
Schnell sein: To be quick (general).
Gas geben: Idiomatic, colloquial, speed up significantly.
How Formal Is It?
Le savais-tu ?
The '-en' ending in German verbs often indicates an infinitive form. The reflexive nature of 'sich beeilen' highlights the action being performed upon oneself, urging oneself to move faster. This is a common grammatical structure in Germanic languages.
Guide de prononciation
- Pronouncing 'ei' as a long 'e' sound.
- Not stressing the second syllable.
- Omitting the final schwa sound in 'en'.
Niveau de difficulté
The verb itself is straightforward, but understanding its reflexive nature and common collocations is key. Learners at A2 level can grasp its basic usage.
Requires attention to reflexive pronouns and correct conjugation in different tenses. Common mistakes involve omitting the reflexive pronoun or using the wrong one.
The imperative form is very common and useful. Practicing saying 'Beeil dich!' or 'Wir müssen uns beeilen' in context will build fluency.
The word is frequently used in spoken German, especially in contexts involving time pressure. Recognizing the reflexive pronoun alongside the verb is important for comprehension.
Quoi apprendre ensuite
Prérequis
Apprends ensuite
Avancé
Grammaire à connaître
Reflexive Verbs
Verbs like 'sich waschen' (to wash oneself), 'sich anziehen' (to dress oneself), and 'sich freuen' (to be happy) also use reflexive pronouns. 'Beeilen' follows this pattern.
Modal Verbs
Modal verbs like 'müssen' (must), 'können' (can), and 'wollen' (want) are often used with infinitives, including 'sich beeilen'. Example: Ich muss mich beeilen.
Subordinate Clauses (weil, damit, bevor)
These conjunctions introduce clauses where the verb goes to the end. Example: Wir beeilen uns, damit wir den Zug erreichen.
Imperative Mood
Used for commands. 'Beeil dich!' is the informal singular imperative of 'sich beeilen'.
Perfekt Tense
Formed with 'haben' + past participle. Example: Sie hat sich beeilt.
Exemples par niveau
Beeil dich!
Hurry up!
Imperative, informal singular.
Wir müssen uns beeilen.
We must hurry.
Present tense, reflexive pronoun 'uns'.
Ich beeile mich.
I am hurrying.
Present tense, reflexive pronoun 'mich'.
Beeilt euch!
Hurry up! (plural)
Imperative, informal plural.
Er beeilt sich.
He is hurrying.
Present tense, reflexive pronoun 'sich'.
Sie beeilt sich.
She is hurrying.
Present tense, reflexive pronoun 'sich'.
Beeilen Sie sich!
Hurry up! (formal)
Imperative, formal singular/plural.
Wir haben uns beeilt.
We hurried.
Perfekt tense.
Wir müssen uns beeilen, sonst verpassen wir den Zug.
We must hurry, otherwise we will miss the train.
Subordinate clause with 'sonst'.
Warum beeilst du dich so?
Why are you hurrying so much?
Question, present tense, reflexive pronoun 'dich'.
Ich beeile mich, weil ich einen Termin habe.
I am hurrying because I have an appointment.
Subordinate clause with 'weil'.
Komm, beeil dich, wir wollen nicht zu spät kommen.
Come on, hurry up, we don't want to be too late.
Imperative and present tense.
Sie hat sich sehr beeilt, um pünktlich zu sein.
She hurried a lot to be on time.
Perfekt tense with 'um...zu' infinitive clause.
Die Kinder beeilen sich, um im Park zu spielen.
The children are hurrying to play in the park.
Present tense with 'um...zu' infinitive clause.
Ich muss mich jetzt beeilen, mein Bus kommt gleich.
I have to hurry now, my bus is coming soon.
Modal verb 'müssen' with infinitive.
Wir haben uns beeilt, aber es war trotzdem zu spät.
We hurried, but it was too late anyway.
Perfekt tense with 'aber' and 'trotzdem'.
Wenn wir uns nicht beeilen, werden wir die Vorstellung verpassen.
If we don't hurry, we will miss the performance.
Conditional clause with 'wenn'.
Er beeilte sich, seine Hausaufgaben zu beenden, bevor seine Freunde kamen.
He hurried to finish his homework before his friends arrived.
Präteritum tense with temporal clause 'bevor'.
Bitte beeilen Sie sich, der Zug fährt in fünf Minuten ab.
Please hurry, the train departs in five minutes.
Formal imperative with temporal information.
Sie musste sich sputen, um den wichtigen Anruf nicht zu verpassen.
She had to hurry up so as not to miss the important call.
Using 'sich sputen' and 'um...zu' infinitive clause.
Wir haben uns sehr beeilt, aber der Verkehr war einfach zu schlimm.
We hurried a lot, but the traffic was simply too bad.
Perfekt tense with causal explanation.
Lass uns uns beeilen, damit wir noch einen guten Platz bekommen.
Let's hurry so that we get a good seat.
Imperative with 'damit' clause.
Er beeilte sich, seine Tasche zu packen, da er den Flug erwischen musste.
He hurried to pack his bag, as he had to catch the flight.
Präteritum tense with causal clause 'da'.
Obwohl wir uns beeilt haben, kamen wir erst nach Beginn der Vorstellung an.
Although we hurried, we only arrived after the performance had started.
Concessive clause with 'obwohl'.
Angesichts der knappen Zeit blieb uns nichts anderes übrig, als uns zu beeilen.
Given the tight time, we had no choice but to hurry.
Prepositional phrase 'Angesichts der knappen Zeit' and infinitive clause with 'als'.
Die Rettungskräfte beeilten sich, um die verletzte Person so schnell wie möglich zu erreichen.
The rescue workers hurried to reach the injured person as quickly as possible.
Präteritum tense with 'um...zu' infinitive clause.
Er hat sich nicht im Geringsten beeilt, seine Pflichten zu erfüllen.
He did not hurry in the slightest to fulfill his duties.
Negation with 'nicht im Geringsten' and infinitive clause.
Man sollte sich nicht unnötig beeilen, wenn man die Qualität seiner Arbeit gefährdet.
One should not hurry unnecessarily if it endangers the quality of one's work.
General statement with 'man' and conditional clause.
Sie beeilte sich, die Präsentation fertigzustellen, bevor ihr Chef die Änderungen anforderte.
She hurried to finish the presentation before her boss requested the changes.
Präteritum tense with temporal clause 'bevor'.
Trotz aller Bemühungen, uns zu beeilen, kamen wir zu spät zur Eröffnungszeremonie.
Despite all efforts to hurry, we arrived too late for the opening ceremony.
Prepositional phrase 'Trotz aller Bemühungen' and infinitive clause.
Er beeilte sich, den letzten Zug zu erwischen, wohlwissend, dass er sonst die Nacht am Bahnhof verbringen müsste.
He hurried to catch the last train, knowing that otherwise he would have to spend the night at the station.
Participle clause 'wohlwissend' and conditional statement.
Die Organisation musste sich beeilen, um die Hilfsgüter vor dem Sturm zu verteilen.
The organization had to hurry to distribute the relief supplies before the storm.
Modal verb 'musste' with infinitive and temporal clause.
Er beeilte sich, die Gelegenheit beim Schopfe zu packen, bevor sie verstrich.
He hurried to seize the opportunity before it passed.
Idiomatic expression 'Gelegenheit beim Schopfe packen' and temporal clause.
Angesichts der drohenden Gefahr blieb den Evakuierten keine andere Wahl, als sich mit aller Macht zu beeilen.
Given the imminent danger, the evacuees had no choice but to hurry with all their might.
Prepositional phrase 'Angesichts der drohenden Gefahr' and infinitive clause with emphasis.
Die Verhandlungen zogen sich in die Länge, was die Beteiligten zwang, sich unerwartet zu beeilen.
The negotiations dragged on, which forced the participants to hurry unexpectedly.
Relative clause and infinitive clause with causative verb.
Sie beeilte sich, ihre Forschungsergebnisse zu veröffentlichen, um anderen Wissenschaftlern zuvorzukommen.
She hurried to publish her research findings to get ahead of other scientists.
Präteritum tense with 'um...zu' infinitive clause indicating purpose.
Um den drohenden finanziellen Kollaps abzuwenden, musste sich das Unternehmen zügig umstrukturieren.
To avert the impending financial collapse, the company had to restructure rapidly.
'Um...zu' infinitive clause and adverb 'zügig' (rapidly) as an alternative to 'sich beeilen'.
Er versuchte, sich zu beeilen, doch seine Erschöpfung machte ihm zu schaffen.
He tried to hurry, but his exhaustion made it difficult for him.
Infinitive clause with 'zu' and causal phrase.
Die Entscheidungsträger sahen sich gezwungen, sich zu beeilen, um die Frist einzuhalten.
The decision-makers felt compelled to hurry to meet the deadline.
Passive construction 'sahen sich gezwungen' and infinitive clause.
Sie beeilte sich, ihre Gedanken zu ordnen, bevor sie vor dem Publikum sprach.
She hurried to organize her thoughts before speaking in front of the audience.
Präteritum tense with temporal clause 'bevor'.
Er beeilte sich, die Gunst des Moments zu nutzen, bevor die Gelegenheit unwiederbringlich verstrich.
He hurried to seize the moment before the opportunity irrevocably passed.
Idiomatic expression with emphasis on finality.
Angesichts der eskalierenden Krise sah sich die Regierung genötigt, sich mit äußerster Dringlichkeit zu beeilen.
Given the escalating crisis, the government felt compelled to hurry with the utmost urgency.
Passive construction 'sah sich genötigt' and adverbial phrase.
Die Komplexität des Problems zwang die Forscher, sich widerwillig zu beeilen, um eine Lösung zu finden.
The complexity of the problem forced the researchers to reluctantly hurry to find a solution.
Causative verb 'zwang' and adverb 'widerwillig' (reluctantly).
Um den drohenden Kollaps der Infrastruktur zu verhindern, musste die Stadtverwaltung sich im Eiltempo reorganisieren.
To prevent the impending collapse of the infrastructure, the city administration had to reorganize at breakneck speed.
'Um...zu' infinitive clause and the adverbial phrase 'im Eiltempo' (at breakneck speed).
Er beeilte sich, seine Argumente zu untermauern, bevor die Gegenpartei sie widerlegen konnte.
He hurried to substantiate his arguments before the opposing party could refute them.
Präteritum tense with temporal clause 'bevor'.
Trotz aller Vorsichtsmaßnahmen und der Bemühungen, sich nicht zu überstürzen, war die Zeit gegen sie.
Despite all precautions and efforts not to rush, time was against them.
Complex sentence structure with concessive elements.
Sie beeilte sich, ihre letzten Worte zu formulieren, wohl wissend, dass dies ihre letzte Chance sein könnte.
She hurried to formulate her last words, knowing that this might be her last chance.
Participle clause 'wohl wissend' and modal verb 'könnte'.
Die diplomatischen Bemühungen mussten sich sputen, um einen offenen Konflikt zu verhindern.
Diplomatic efforts had to be expedited to prevent an open conflict.
Using 'sich sputen' in a formal context with an adverbial phrase.
Collocations courantes
Phrases Courantes
— Why are you hurrying so much?
Warum beeilst du dich so? Ist etwas passiert?
— To have to hurry.
Wir müssen uns beeilen, sonst verpassen wir die Vorstellung.
Souvent confondu avec
'Eilen' also means 'to hurry' but is typically not reflexive and often sounds more formal or literary. 'Sich beeilen' is the more common, everyday reflexive verb.
Very similar to 'sich beeilen', often used interchangeably in informal contexts. 'Sich sputen' can sometimes feel slightly more colloquial or imply a quicker, perhaps more frantic, rush.
This means 'to be quick' and is more general. It doesn't necessarily imply the act of rushing or the pressure of time in the same way 'sich beeilen' does.
Expressions idiomatiques
— Time is pressing. This phrase is often used in conjunction with the need to hurry, implying that there isn't much time left.
Die Zeit drängt, wir müssen uns beeilen!
Neutral— Quickly, in a hurry. This adverbial phrase describes something done in haste, often without much preparation.
Ich habe das auf die Schnelle gemacht.
Informal— With full speed, at breakneck speed. This implies a very fast and often reckless manner of moving or doing something.
Er rannte mit Karacho auf den Zug zu.
Colloquial— It is very urgent. This emphasizes the critical nature of the situation and the need to hurry.
Es eilt sehr, wir müssen sofort handeln.
Formal— To run oneself ragged, to hurry around a lot. This idiom describes someone who is extremely busy and constantly on the move, hurrying from place to place.
Sie hat sich gestern die Hacken abgerannt, um alles zu erledigen.
Informal— To lose no time. This is a direct instruction or statement about the need to act immediately without delay.
Wir dürfen keine Zeit verlieren und müssen uns sofort beeilen.
Neutral— At breakneck speed, very quickly. Similar to 'mit Karacho', this describes performing an action with extreme speed.
Die Bauarbeiten wurden im Eiltempo durchgeführt.
Neutral— To hurry and run. A colloquial phrase emphasizing rapid movement.
Komm, sput dich und rend! Wir sind schon spät dran.
Colloquial— To be on the road, to be traveling. While not directly meaning 'to hurry', it often implies being busy and moving from place to place, which can involve hurrying.
Er ist diese Woche viel auf Achse und muss sich daher oft beeilen.
Informal— To kick the bucket, to die. (This is an idiom about death, not hurrying, included for contrast and to show unrelated idioms.)
Leider musste er den Löffel abgeben.
InformalFacile à confondre
Both mean 'to hurry'.
'Eilen' is generally not reflexive and is often used in more formal or literary contexts, implying a more urgent or even desperate need to move quickly. 'Sich beeilen' is the standard, reflexive verb for everyday hurrying.
Die Kinder <strong>eilten</strong> nach Hause. (The children hurried home - formal/literary).<br>Wir müssen <strong>uns beeilen</strong>, um den Zug zu erwischen. (We must hurry to catch the train - everyday usage).
Both are reflexive verbs meaning 'to hurry'.
'Sich sputen' is a close synonym to 'sich beeilen' and is often used interchangeably in informal settings. It can sometimes carry a slightly more colloquial or energetic feel, akin to 'scrambling'.
<strong>Sput dich</strong>, wir haben keine Zeit! (Hurry up, we have no time! - colloquial).<br><strong>Beeil dich</strong>, wir haben keine Zeit! (Hurry up, we have no time! - standard).
Both relate to speed.
'Schnell sein' simply means 'to be quick' or 'to be fast'. It doesn't necessarily imply the act of rushing or the pressure of time inherent in 'sich beeilen'. 'Sich beeilen' focuses on the action of increasing one's speed due to a time constraint.
Sei <strong>schnell</strong>! (Be quick! - general instruction).<br>Wir müssen <strong>uns beeilen</strong>! (We must hurry! - implies time pressure).
Both imply moving fast.
'Hetzen' means to rush frantically, to be in a frenzy, or to chase. It often carries a negative connotation of being stressed, disorganized, or even aggressive in one's haste. 'Sich beeilen' is a more neutral term for hurrying.
Er <strong>hetzte</strong> durch die Stadt, ohne jemanden zu grüßen. (He rushed frantically through the city without greeting anyone - negative connotation).<br>Wir müssen <strong>uns beeilen</strong>, um pünktlich zu sein. (We must hurry to be on time - neutral).
It's an antonym, often contrasted with 'sich beeilen'.
'Trödeln' means to dawdle, to loiter, or to waste time. It's the direct opposite of hurrying and implies a lack of urgency and slow, leisurely movement.
Hör auf zu <strong>trödeln</strong> und hilf mir! (Stop dawdling and help me!).<br>Wir müssen uns <strong>beeilen</strong>! (We must hurry!).
Structures de phrases
Imperative + ! (informal singular)
Beeil dich!
Subject + Reflexive Pronoun + beeilen.
Ich beeile mich.
Wir + müssen + uns + beeilen.
Wir müssen uns beeilen.
Question + Reflexive Pronoun + beeilst + du + so?
Warum beeilst du dich so?
Subject + beeilte + sich + um...zu + infinitive.
Er beeilte sich, den Zug zu erwischen.
Wenn + Clause + , + Subject + werden + sich + beeilen.
Wenn wir uns nicht beeilen, werden wir zu spät sein.
Subject + haben + sich + sehr + beeilt + , + weil/aber + Clause.
Sie haben sich sehr beeilt, aber der Verkehr war schlimm.
Angesichts + Noun + , + Subject + sahen + sich + gezwungen + , + sich + zu + beeilen.
Angesichts der Zeit drängte, sahen sie sich gezwungen, sich zu beeilen.
Famille de mots
Noms
Verbes
Adjectifs
Apparenté
Comment l'utiliser
Very High
-
Omitting the reflexive pronoun.
→
Ich beeile mich.
The verb 'beeilen' is reflexive, meaning it requires a reflexive pronoun (mich, dich, sich, uns, euch, sich) that agrees with the subject. Saying 'Ich beeile' is incorrect.
-
Using the wrong reflexive pronoun.
→
Du beeilst dich.
The reflexive pronoun must match the subject. 'Du' (you informal) requires 'dich', not 'sich' or 'mich'.
-
Confusing 'beeilen' with 'eilen'.
→
Wir müssen uns beeilen.
'Sich beeilen' is the common, reflexive verb for everyday hurrying. 'Eilen' is often non-reflexive and more formal or literary.
-
Incorrect verb conjugation in the imperative.
→
Beeil dich!
The informal singular imperative for 'du' is formed by taking the stem of the verb (beeil-) and adding '-e' or '-ig' for strong verbs, and attaching the reflexive pronoun. 'Beeil dich!' is correct.
-
Incorrect word order in subordinate clauses.
→
Wir müssen uns beeilen, damit wir den Zug erwischen.
In subordinate clauses introduced by conjunctions like 'damit', 'weil', or 'bevor', the conjugated verb (in this case, 'erwischen') goes to the very end of the clause. The reflexive verb 'uns beeilen' stays in its position in the main clause.
Astuces
Master the Reflexive Pronouns
Remember that 'beeilen' is reflexive. Always pair it with the correct reflexive pronoun: mich (I), dich (you informal), sich (he/she/it/they/formal you), uns (we), euch (you plural informal). Forgetting this is a common mistake.
Use the Imperative Form
The imperative 'Beeil dich!' (Hurry up! - informal) and 'Beeilen Sie sich!' (Hurry up! - formal) are extremely common. Practice using them in appropriate contexts.
Learn Synonyms and Antonyms
Knowing words like 'eilen', 'sich sputen' (synonyms), and 'sich Zeit lassen', 'trödeln' (antonyms) will enrich your understanding and allow you to express nuances of speed and urgency more effectively.
Focus on the 'ei' Sound
The diphthong 'ei' in 'beeilen' sounds like the 'eye' in English 'sky'. Practice this sound to ensure clear pronunciation. The stress falls on the second syllable: bee-I-len.
Situational Awareness
Understand that 'sich beeilen' is used when time is a factor. Listen for cues like 'spät' (late), 'Frist' (deadline), or 'bald' (soon) that indicate the need to hurry.
Visual Associations
Connect the word 'beeilen' to a visual image, like a busy bee ('bee') rushing, or someone looking frantically at a clock. This can help solidify the meaning in your memory.
Sentence Building
Create your own sentences using 'sich beeilen' in different tenses and contexts. Write about times you had to hurry or observed others hurrying.
Active Listening
When watching German movies or listening to podcasts, pay attention to instances of 'sich beeilen'. Try to predict when it might be used based on the situation described.
Value of Punctuality
Recognize that punctuality is important in German culture. This context makes understanding and using 'sich beeilen' very relevant for effective communication.
Regular Revision
Periodically review the meaning, usage, and common mistakes associated with 'sich beeilen' to ensure long-term retention and accurate application.
Mémorise-le
Moyen mnémotechnique
Imagine someone saying 'Be, I'll 'en'd this quickly!' They are hurrying to finish something. The 'Be, I'll en'd' sounds a bit like 'beeilen', and the context of hurrying helps connect it.
Association visuelle
Picture a person rushing with their hair flying back, looking at a watch with wide eyes, and saying 'Oh no, I must beeilen!' The 'bee' sound could be associated with a buzzing, fast-moving bee.
Word Web
Défi
Try to use 'sich beeilen' in at least three different sentences today, describing situations where you or someone else needs to hurry. Focus on using the correct reflexive pronoun for each subject.
Origine du mot
The verb 'beeilen' is derived from the Middle High German 'bîlînen', which itself comes from the Old High German 'bîlînen'. The prefix 'bei-' often indicates closeness or intensity, and the root is related to 'eil' (haste). This suggests an intensifying of the concept of haste.
Sens originel : To hasten intensely or to move with great speed.
GermanicContexte culturel
While 'sich beeilen' is a neutral term, its imperative form ('Beeil dich!') can sometimes sound abrupt or impatient depending on the tone and context. It's generally used among friends, family, or in situations where directness is expected. For more formal or polite requests, softer phrasing might be preferred.
In English-speaking cultures, while punctuality is also important, the degree of emphasis can vary. Phrases like 'hurry up', 'rush', 'make haste', or 'step on it' serve similar functions to 'sich beeilen'. However, the reflexive nature of the German verb is a distinct grammatical feature.
Pratique dans la vie réelle
Contextes réels
Running late for an appointment or event.
- Wir müssen uns beeilen!
- Ich bin spät dran.
- Komm, beeil dich!
Catching public transportation.
- Der Zug fährt gleich ab.
- Wir müssen rennen.
- Beeil dich, sonst verpassen wir ihn!
Meeting a deadline at work or school.
- Die Frist ist morgen.
- Wir müssen uns beeilen, um fertig zu werden.
- Keine Zeit verlieren!
Getting ready to go out.
- Mach dich fertig!
- Beeil dich, wir wollen los.
- Hast du alles?
General urgency or time pressure.
- Die Zeit drängt.
- Wir haben nicht viel Zeit.
- Beeilen Sie sich!
Amorces de conversation
"What's the fastest you've ever had to hurry for something?"
"Do you usually find yourself needing to 'sich beeilen' or do you prefer to take your time?"
"What's a common situation where Germans often need to 'sich beeilen'?"
"Can you think of a time when hurrying actually caused a problem?"
"How do you say 'Hurry up!' in German, and to whom would you say it?"
Sujets d'écriture
Describe a situation from your past where you had to 'sich beeilen' significantly. What was the reason, and what was the outcome?
Reflect on whether you are generally a person who 'sich beeilt' or 'sich Zeit lässt'. How does this affect your daily life?
Imagine you are in Germany and you are late for an important meeting. Write a short dialogue where you use 'sich beeilen' to explain your situation or ask for understanding.
What are some common phrases in your native language that mean 'to hurry' or 'to rush'? Compare them to the German 'sich beeilen'.
Write a short story about a character who learns the importance of not always needing to 'sich beeilen' and finding balance.
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsYes, 'beeilen' is almost always used as a reflexive verb in German. This means you need to include a reflexive pronoun like 'mich', 'dich', 'sich', 'uns', 'euch', or 'sich' that agrees with the subject of the sentence. For example, 'Ich beeile mich' (I hurry), not 'Ich beeile'.
'Sich beeilen' is the standard, everyday verb for 'to hurry' and is reflexive. 'Eilen' also means 'to hurry' but is typically not reflexive and is often used in more formal, literary, or urgent contexts, like 'The doctors hurried to the scene.' (Die Ärzte eilten zum Unfallort.)
The most common ways are: 'Beeil dich!' (informal, singular, to one person you know well) and 'Beeilen Sie sich!' (formal, to one person you address with 'Sie', or to a group you address with 'Sie'). For a group of friends, you'd say 'Beeilt euch!'.
The past tense (Perfekt) is formed with the auxiliary verb 'haben' and the past participle 'beeilt'. Remember to include the reflexive pronoun. For example: 'Ich habe mich beeilt.' (I hurried.) or 'Sie hat sich beeilt.' (She hurried.)
Yes, absolutely. Modal verbs like 'müssen' (must), 'können' (can), 'wollen' (want), etc., are often used with 'sich beeilen'. For example: 'Ich muss mich beeilen.' (I have to hurry.) or 'Du kannst dich beeilen.' (You can hurry.)
'Sich sputen' is a colloquial synonym for 'sich beeilen', also meaning 'to hurry up'. It's often used in informal situations and can sometimes imply a slightly more energetic or frantic rush.
Punctuality is highly valued in German culture, especially in professional settings and formal appointments. Being late without a good reason can be seen as disrespectful. This cultural value contributes to the frequent use of words like 'sich beeilen'.
The verb itself is neutral. However, the imperative form 'Beeil dich!' can sound abrupt or impatient depending on the tone and context. In very stressful or frantic situations, the verb 'hetzen' might be used, which carries a more negative connotation of being in a frenzy.
You can use conjunctions like 'weil' (because) or 'damit' (so that). For example: 'Ich beeile mich, weil ich den Zug erwischen muss.' (I am hurrying because I have to catch the train.) or 'Wir beeilen uns, damit wir pünktlich ankommen.' (We are hurrying so that we arrive on time.)
Direct antonyms include 'sich Zeit lassen' (to take one's time), 'langsam sein' (to be slow), and 'trödeln' (to dawdle or loiter). These phrases describe a lack of urgency and a slower pace.
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Summary
The German verb 'beeilen' means 'to hurry' or 'to rush'. It is a reflexive verb, meaning it requires a reflexive pronoun (mich, dich, sich, uns, euch, sich) and is used when there's a need to act quickly due to time constraints. For example, 'Wir müssen uns beeilen' means 'We must hurry'.
- Beeilen means to hurry or rush.
- It is a reflexive verb (sich beeilen).
- Used when time is limited or a deadline is approaching.
- Common in everyday conversations and announcements.
Master the Reflexive Pronouns
Remember that 'beeilen' is reflexive. Always pair it with the correct reflexive pronoun: mich (I), dich (you informal), sich (he/she/it/they/formal you), uns (we), euch (you plural informal). Forgetting this is a common mistake.
Use the Imperative Form
The imperative 'Beeil dich!' (Hurry up! - informal) and 'Beeilen Sie sich!' (Hurry up! - formal) are extremely common. Practice using them in appropriate contexts.
Learn Synonyms and Antonyms
Knowing words like 'eilen', 'sich sputen' (synonyms), and 'sich Zeit lassen', 'trödeln' (antonyms) will enrich your understanding and allow you to express nuances of speed and urgency more effectively.
Focus on the 'ei' Sound
The diphthong 'ei' in 'beeilen' sounds like the 'eye' in English 'sky'. Practice this sound to ensure clear pronunciation. The stress falls on the second syllable: bee-I-len.
Exemple
Wir müssen uns beeilen, sonst verpassen wir den Zug.
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