Achtung
Achtung 30초 만에
- Achtung is a vital German interjection used primarily for warnings and gaining immediate attention in public and private spaces.
- It is commonly heard in train stations, construction sites, and before important announcements to ensure safety and order.
- Unlike 'Entschuldigung', which is for politeness, 'Achtung' is a command and can sound very sharp or urgent depending on the tone.
- It is grammatically simple as it does not change form, making it an essential tool for A2 level German learners.
The German word Achtung is one of the most recognizable interjections in the German language, primarily used to command immediate attention or to signal a potential hazard. While it is technically the noun form of 'respect' or 'esteem' in other contexts, as an interjection, it functions as a sharp, imperative call. It is the linguistic equivalent of 'Attention!', 'Watch out!', or 'Heads up!' in English. In a linguistic sense, it acts as a signal word that halts current activity and redirects the listener's focus to a specific source of information or danger. This dual nature—serving both as a formal announcement starter and a frantic warning—makes it versatile but requires careful attention to tone and volume.
- Primary Function
- To alert individuals to immediate environmental changes or upcoming announcements.
- Etymological Root
- Derived from 'achten' (to pay attention/respect), emphasizing the act of noticing.
Achtung! Der Zug fährt jetzt ab.
In everyday life, you will encounter this word on signs, in public announcements, and in sudden, high-stakes situations. It is not merely a word but a social tool used to maintain safety and order. When someone shouts 'Achtung!', the social expectation is that you stop what you are doing and look for the source of the call. It differs from 'Vorsicht' (caution) in its intensity; 'Achtung' is often more abrupt and authoritative. Understanding the nuance between these two is key for A2 learners moving toward B1 proficiency.
Achtung, Stufe!
- Tone
- Can range from a polite request for silence to a loud, urgent warning of physical harm.
Using 'Achtung' correctly involves understanding the context of the situation. As an interjection, it does not require complex sentence structure. You can use it as a standalone exclamation. For instance, if you see someone about to walk into a wet floor, a sharp 'Achtung!' is sufficient. However, in more formal settings, such as a meeting or a classroom, it might be used to transition between topics: 'Achtung, wir kommen nun zum nächsten Punkt.' (Attention, we are now coming to the next point.)
Achtung! Bitte alle herhören.
Grammatically, 'Achtung' as an interjection is indeclinable. It doesn't change based on gender, case, or number. This makes it very accessible for beginners. You should also be aware of its use in compound nouns, like 'Achtungssignal' (warning signal), though as an interjection, it remains isolated. In writing, it is almost always followed by an exclamation mark or a comma if it introduces a clause. The prosody—the rhythm and pitch—is vital. A rising intonation usually signals a question or a mild alert, while a falling, sharp intonation signals danger.
- Contextual Usage
- Public safety, military commands, classroom management, and casual warnings.
Achtung, die Kurve ist gefährlich!
If you travel to a German-speaking country, 'Achtung' will likely be one of the first words you hear in public spaces. Train stations (Bahnhöfe) are the most common locations. The automated voice will say, 'Achtung an Gleis 4, der Zug fährt ein.' This warns passengers to stand back from the platform edge. Construction sites (Baustellen) also use it extensively on signage: 'Achtung, Baustelle!' or 'Achtung, Lebensgefahr!' (Danger, risk of death!).
Achtung! Frisch gestrichen.
In media, specifically news broadcasts or emergency alerts, 'Achtung' serves as a prefix to important information. In historical films, you might hear it used in a military context, which has given the word a somewhat stern reputation internationally. However, in modern daily life, it is a neutral safety term. You will also hear it in sports, where a coach might shout 'Achtung!' to get the players' attention before explaining a drill. It is ubiquitous, from the depths of the U-Bahn to the heights of the Alps on hiking trail warnings.
Achtung, Bissiger Hund!
One of the most frequent mistakes for English speakers is using 'Achtung' when they actually mean 'Entschuldigung' (Excuse me). If you want to pass someone in a crowded hallway, shouting 'Achtung!' might sound aggressive or like you are warning them of a falling object. Instead, use 'Entschuldigung'. 'Achtung' implies a level of urgency or a command to pay attention that isn't always appropriate for polite social navigation.
- Achtung vs. Vorsicht
- 'Achtung' is for general attention or announcements; 'Vorsicht' is specifically for 'be careful' in the face of danger.
Another mistake is confusing the interjection with the verb 'achten'. While related, you cannot say 'Ich achtung dich' to mean 'I am paying attention to you'. You must use the verb: 'Ich achte auf dich'. Furthermore, learners often forget that 'Achtung' can be quite loud. Using it in a quiet library to get a friend's attention will likely result in glares from others. It is a 'high-volume' word by nature.
Incorrect: Achtung, darf ich mal vorbei? (Too harsh)
Correct: Entschuldigung, darf ich mal vorbei?
There are several words that overlap with 'Achtung', and choosing the right one depends on the level of danger and the desired reaction. 'Vorsicht' is the most common synonym, often used interchangeably in danger zones. However, 'Vorsicht' literally means 'fore-sight' or 'caution', suggesting a more sustained state of being careful. 'Obacht' is a more regional, southern German (Bavarian/Austrian) variation that sounds slightly more traditional or colloquial.
- Vorsicht
- Focuses on the need for caution (e.g., 'Vorsicht, Glas!').
- Obacht
- Regional synonym, often used like 'Watch out'.
- Pass auf
- The imperative form of 'aufpassen' (to pay attention), very common in casual speech.
In a formal announcement context, you might hear 'Hören Sie bitte zu' (Please listen) or 'Ihre Aufmerksamkeit, bitte' (Your attention, please). These are much softer than 'Achtung'. If you are in a car, you might hear 'Pass auf!' from a passenger, which is more personal than the generic 'Achtung'. Understanding these synonyms helps you sound more like a native speaker and allows you to calibrate your urgency correctly.
Vorsicht! Die Straße ist glatt.
How Formal Is It?
발음 가이드
난이도
알아야 할 문법
Imperative mood
Interjections in German
Compound nouns with 'Achtungs-'
Punctuation with exclamations
Sentence structure with signal words
수준별 예문
Achtung! Ein Hund.
Attention! A dog.
Standalone interjection.
Achtung, die Tür schließt.
Watch out, the door is closing.
Used with a simple clause.
Achtung! Hier ist es nass.
Attention! It is wet here.
Warning of a condition.
Achtung, bitte!
Attention, please!
Combined with 'bitte' for politeness.
Achtung! Das Auto kommt.
Watch out! The car is coming.
Immediate warning.
Achtung an Gleis eins.
Attention on platform one.
Prepositional phrase following the interjection.
Achtung! Nicht essen.
Attention! Do not eat.
Negative command.
Achtung, fertig, los!
Ready, set, go!
Part of a fixed idiom for starting.
Achtung, die Kinder spielen hier.
Watch out, the children are playing here.
Warning with a reason.
Achtung, der Kaffee ist sehr heiß.
Attention, the coffee is very hot.
Adjective phrase warning.
Achtung! Wir müssen jetzt gehen.
Attention! We must go now.
Used to signal a change in activity.
Achtung, die Ampel ist rot.
Watch out, the traffic light is red.
Safety observation.
Achtung! Das ist gefährlich.
Attention! That is dangerous.
General warning.
Achtung, nimm dein Handy mit.
Attention, take your phone with you.
Used as a reminder.
Achtung, der Film beginnt.
Attention, the movie is starting.
Announcing an event.
Achtung! Die Katze schläft.
Watch out! The cat is sleeping.
Used to request quiet.
Achtung, bei diesem Experiment ist Vorsicht geboten.
Attention, caution is required in this experiment.
Formal warning.
Achtung! Bitte lesen Sie die Packungsbeilage.
Attention! Please read the package insert.
Instructional warning.
Achtung, der Weg ist bei Regen rutschig.
Attention, the path is slippery when it rains.
Conditional warning.
Achtung! Es gibt eine Programmänderung.
Attention! There is a program change.
Announcing organizational changes.
Achtung, wir haben nur noch fünf Minuten.
Attention, we only have five minutes left.
Time management alert.
Achtung, die Bauarbeiten dauern bis morgen.
Attention, the construction work lasts until tomorrow.
Informational alert.
Achtung! Achten Sie auf Ihre Wertsachen.
Attention! Watch out for your valuables.
Imperative warning.
Achtung, die Brücke ist für LKW gesperrt.
Attention, the bridge is closed for trucks.
Specific restriction alert.
Achtung, diese Aussage könnte missverstanden werden.
Attention, this statement could be misunderstood.
Abstract warning.
Achtung! Die folgenden Bilder könnten verstörend wirken.
Attention! The following images could be disturbing.
Media disclaimer.
Achtung, wir betreten nun eine geschützte Zone.
Attention, we are now entering a protected zone.
Positional alert.
Achtung, das Kleingedruckte ist hier entscheidend.
Attention, the fine print is crucial here.
Metaphorical warning.
Achtung! Der Server wird in Kürze neu gestartet.
Attention! The server will be restarted shortly.
Technical alert.
Achtung, es handelt sich um eine limitierte Auflage.
Attention, it is a limited edition.
Marketing alert.
Achtung, die chemische Reaktion erfolgt sofort.
Attention, the chemical reaction occurs immediately.
Scientific warning.
Achtung! Bei Nichtbeachtung droht ein Bußgeld.
Attention! Failure to comply may result in a fine.
Legal warning.
Achtung, die Ironie in seinem Ton war kaum zu überhören.
Attention, the irony in his tone was hard to miss.
Literary use.
Achtung! Diese Theorie setzt ein hohes Maß an Vorwissen voraus.
Attention! This theory requires a high degree of prior knowledge.
Academic warning.
Achtung, wir müssen die ethischen Implikationen bedenken.
Attention, we must consider the ethical implications.
Philosophical alert.
Achtung, die Marktdynamik hat sich grundlegend verschoben.
Attention, the market dynamics have fundamentally shifted.
Economic alert.
Achtung! Die Authentizität des Dokuments ist umstritten.
Attention! The authenticity of the document is disputed.
Critical alert.
Achtung, hier prallen zwei unvereinbare Weltanschauungen aufeinander.
Attention, two irreconcilable worldviews clash here.
Sociological observation.
Achtung, die rhetorische Finesse der Rede ist bemerkenswert.
Attention, the rhetorical finesse of the speech is remarkable.
Stylistic alert.
Achtung! Eine voreilige Schlussfolgerung wäre fatal.
Attention! A premature conclusion would be fatal.
Logical warning.
Achtung, die semantische Unschärfe des Begriffs führt oft zu Fehlern.
Attention, the semantic ambiguity of the term often leads to errors.
Linguistic warning.
Achtung! In der Stille der Natur offenbart sich das Wesentliche.
Attention! In the silence of nature, the essential reveals itself.
Poetic/Philosophical use.
Achtung, die diskursive Macht der Medien ist nicht zu unterschätzen.
Attention, the discursive power of the media is not to be underestimated.
Political science alert.
Achtung, hier wird die Grenze zwischen Fiktion und Realität brüchig.
Attention, here the boundary between fiction and reality becomes fragile.
Literary criticism.
Achtung! Die Komplexität des Systems entzieht sich einfacher Logik.
Attention! The complexity of the system eludes simple logic.
Systems theory alert.
Achtung, die historische Kontingenz dieses Ereignisses ist evident.
Attention, the historical contingency of this event is evident.
Historiographical alert.
Achtung, die ästhetische Wirkung wird durch das Licht verstärkt.
Attention, the aesthetic effect is enhanced by the light.
Artistic alert.
Achtung! Das Schweigen des Autors ist hier beredt.
Attention! The author's silence is eloquent here.
Metaphorical alert.
자주 쓰는 조합
자주 쓰는 구문
자주 혼동되는 단어
Vorsicht is 'be careful'; Achtung is 'pay attention/danger'.
Entschuldigung is for social politeness; Achtung is a command.
Achten is the verb; Achtung is the interjection/noun.
관용어 및 표현
혼동하기 쉬운
문장 패턴
사용법
Often used in digital notifications (e.g., 'Achtung: Update verfügbar').
In the south, 'Obacht' is a common alternative.
- Using 'Achtung' instead of 'Entschuldigung'.
- Pronouncing it as 'Aktung'.
- Using it as a verb: 'Ich achtung dich'.
- Using it in a quiet environment without reason.
- Confusing 'die Achtung' (noun) with the interjection.
팁
Use for Safety
Always use 'Achtung' if you see someone in immediate danger. It is the fastest way to get them to stop and look.
The 'Ach' Sound
Practice the 'ch' sound by pretending to clear your throat gently. It should not be a 'k' sound.
Avoid for Politeness
Don't use 'Achtung' to say 'Excuse me' in a crowd. It sounds like you are ordering people out of your way.
Station Announcements
When you hear 'Achtung' in a station, stop talking and listen. The next few words are usually the most important for your journey.
Visual Emphasis
In informal texts, you can write '!!! ACHTUNG !!!' to make a warning stand out, but use this sparingly.
Signage
Learn to recognize the word on signs. It is often paired with symbols like a lightning bolt or an exclamation mark.
No Declension
Don't worry about endings. 'Achtung' is always 'Achtung' when used as an exclamation.
Pair with Nouns
Learn common pairs like 'Achtung, Stufe' (step) or 'Achtung, Glas' to expand your warning vocabulary.
Southern Variation
If you are in Munich or Vienna, you might hear 'Obacht!'. It means the exact same thing as 'Achtung!'.
News Alerts
News apps in Germany often use 'Achtung' in their push notifications for breaking news or weather warnings.
암기하기
어원
Middle High German 'ahtunge'
문화적 맥락
Reflects the German value of 'Sicherheit'.
Often used in historical contexts as a command.
Crucial for navigating the Deutsche Bahn.
실생활에서 연습하기
실제 사용 상황
대화 시작하기
"Haben Sie die Achtung-Schilder gesehen?"
"Achtung, darf ich Sie kurz stören?"
"Achtung, wissen Sie, wann der Zug kommt?"
"Achtung, ist dieser Platz noch frei?"
"Achtung, können Sie mir helfen?"
일기 주제
Wann hast du das letzte Mal 'Achtung' gehört?
Schreibe über eine Situation, in der 'Achtung' wichtig war.
Welche Warnschilder mit 'Achtung' kennst du?
Wie unterscheidet sich 'Achtung' von Warnungen in deiner Muttersprache?
Warum ist 'Achtung' ein wichtiges Wort für Reisende?
자주 묻는 질문
10 질문No, it is not inherently rude, but it is very direct. In emergency situations, it is necessary. In social situations where you just want to pass someone, 'Entschuldigung' is much better. Using 'Achtung' when there is no danger can sound aggressive.
Yes, you can use it to highlight a very important point or a warning. For example, 'Achtung: Der Termin hat sich geändert.' It acts like 'Note:' or 'Warning:' in English. It is effective for getting the reader's attention quickly.
While often used interchangeably, 'Achtung' is a general call for attention, while 'Vorsicht' specifically asks the person to be cautious or careful. 'Achtung' is more common for announcements, while 'Vorsicht' is more common for physical hazards like a low ceiling.
It is the 'Ach-Laut', pronounced in the back of the throat, similar to the Scottish 'loch'. It is a voiceless velar fricative. Make sure not to pronounce it like a 'k' or an 'sh'.
It is widely recognized internationally, often appearing in English-language media to evoke a German setting. However, its use outside of German is usually stereotypical or related to historical contexts.
Yes, 'die Achtung' means 'respect' or 'esteem'. For example, 'Ich habe große Achtung vor seiner Arbeit.' (I have great respect for his work). The interjection and the noun share the same spelling but different functions.
It is the standard way to start an announcement. It clears the mental space of the passengers so they can hear the specific details about the train, such as delays or platform changes.
It was used as a military command, which is why it can sound stern. However, in modern Germany, it is a standard safety and signal word used by everyone from children to grandmothers.
It is the German equivalent of 'Ready, set, go!'. It is used to start races or games. 'Achtung' here means 'get ready' or 'pay attention to the start'.
Yes, if you are warning them about something, like a puddle or a car. It is perfectly normal in a casual context when safety is involved.
셀프 테스트 190 질문
Write a warning for a wet floor using 'Achtung'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a warning for a low ceiling.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a warning for a closing door.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a warning for a hot cup of tea.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a warning for a car.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a warning for a step.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a warning for a dog.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a warning for a construction site.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a warning for a slippery road.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a warning for a red light.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a formal announcement start.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a warning for a delay.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a warning for a change in plan.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a warning for high voltage.
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Write a warning for fragile items.
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Write a content warning for a video.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a warning for a server restart.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a warning for a limited edition.
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Write a warning for a chemical reaction.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a warning for a fine.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Say 'Attention! A car!' in German.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Watch out, the door is closing!'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Attention, please!'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Ready, set, go!'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Attention on platform one.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Watch out, the coffee is hot.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Watch out, a step.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Attention, the movie is starting.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Watch out, the cat is sleeping.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Attention, the light is red.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Attention, there is a program change.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Attention, caution is required.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Attention, watch out for your valuables.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Attention, the path is slippery.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Attention, the bridge is closed.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Attention, the server is restarting.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Attention, this is a limited edition.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Attention, the reaction occurs immediately.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Attention, a fine may be issued.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Attention, the fine print is crucial.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Listen to 'Achtung, die Tür schließt.' What is closing?
Listen to 'Achtung an Gleis 5.' Which platform?
Listen to 'Achtung, ein Hund!' What is there?
Listen to 'Achtung, fertig, los!' What is starting?
Listen to 'Achtung, bitte!' What is requested?
Listen to 'Achtung, die Stufe.' What should you avoid?
Listen to 'Achtung, der Kaffee ist heiß.' What is hot?
Listen to 'Achtung, die Ampel ist rot.' What color is the light?
Listen to 'Achtung, Kinder.' Who is there?
Listen to 'Achtung, Baustelle.' What is there?
Listen to 'Achtung, Programmänderung.' What changed?
Listen to 'Achtung, Lebensgefahr.' How dangerous is it?
Listen to 'Achtung, Hochspannung.' What is the danger?
Listen to 'Achtung, zerbrechlich.' What is the item?
Listen to 'Achtung, Rutschgefahr.' What is the risk?
/ 190 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word 'Achtung' is your primary tool for safety and focus in German. Whether you are warning someone of a car ('Achtung, Auto!') or listening for your train, it signals that what follows is important. Example: 'Achtung! Die Tür schließt automatisch.'
- Achtung is a vital German interjection used primarily for warnings and gaining immediate attention in public and private spaces.
- It is commonly heard in train stations, construction sites, and before important announcements to ensure safety and order.
- Unlike 'Entschuldigung', which is for politeness, 'Achtung' is a command and can sound very sharp or urgent depending on the tone.
- It is grammatically simple as it does not change form, making it an essential tool for A2 level German learners.
Use for Safety
Always use 'Achtung' if you see someone in immediate danger. It is the fastest way to get them to stop and look.
The 'Ach' Sound
Practice the 'ch' sound by pretending to clear your throat gently. It should not be a 'k' sound.
Avoid for Politeness
Don't use 'Achtung' to say 'Excuse me' in a crowd. It sounds like you are ordering people out of your way.
Station Announcements
When you hear 'Achtung' in a station, stop talking and listen. The next few words are usually the most important for your journey.
관련 콘텐츠
관련 표현
communication 관련 단어
Ablehnung
A2거부 또는 거절. 무언가나 누군가를 받아들이지 않는 행위.
abonnieren
B1정기적으로 잡지나 스트리밍 서비스 등을 신청해서 자동으로 받는 것을 말해요.
Absage
B1거절 또는 취소. '입사 거절 통보를 받았다.'
absagen
A2약속이나 행사를 취소하다
Abschied
A2작별 인사를 하거나 떠나는 행위. 친구나 가족과 헤어지는 순간입니다.
Absender
A1편지나 소포 등을 보내는 사람이나 단체를 말합니다. 발송의 출처입니다.
Ähnlichkeit
A2두 대상이 서로 비슷하거나 공통된 특징을 가지고 있는 상태를 말해.
Akzent
A2그는 독일어 억양이 매우 강합니다.
anbieten
A1제공하다, 제안하다. '나는 당신에게 도움을 제안합니다.' (Ich biete Ihnen Hilfe an.)
anklicken
A2화면의 무언가를 클릭하는 것. 링크, 파일 또는 버튼을 열 때 사용됩니다.