How to Say “Pull” and “Push” on Doors in German
The Essential Words: Ziehen and Drücken
Pull in German is ziehen (pronounced: TSEE-en).
Push in German is drücken (pronounced: DROO-ken).
These two words are commonly found on doors throughout German-speaking countries. Learning to recognize them will help you avoid confusion and effortlessly move through public spaces.
What Do German Door Signs Look Like?
On doors, you will typically see these words written clearly, often in bold letters:
- Ziehen – Pull
- Drücken – Push
Sometimes, you might also see pictograms or icons alongside the text, but the words themselves are the standard instructions.
Pronunciation Guide
- Ziehen: The “z” is pronounced like “ts” in “cats.” The “ie” makes a long “ee” sound. So, it’s “TSEE-en.”
- Drücken: The “ü” is pronounced like the “u” in “fur” (try to say “ee” with rounded lips). The “ck” is like the English “k.” So, it’s “DROO-ken.”
Tips for Remembering “Ziehen” and “Drücken”
- Associate the word ziehen with the English word “tug”—both start with a “t” sound and involve pulling something toward you.
- Think of drücken as similar to “drive”—both involve exerting force away from yourself, like pushing a door.
- Write down the words and stick them on your home or office doors as a reminder while you practice German.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many German learners confuse these two words because they often look similar on signs and both end in “-en.” Here are some tips to avoid mixing them up:
- Remember that ziehen (pull) has an “ie,” which is pronounced “ee,” like you’re drawing something towards you.
- Drücken (push) has a “dr” beginning, just like the English word “drive”—you drive the door away from you.
Other Useful Door-Related Vocabulary in German
- Tür – Door
- Notausgang – Emergency exit
- Eingang – Entrance
- Ausgang – Exit
- geschlossen – Closed
- offen – Open
Practice with Real-Life Scenarios
One of the best ways to remember these words is to spot them during your daily life or while traveling. Next time you see a door sign in a German-speaking country, take a moment to read and pronounce the word. If you’re learning with Talkpal or another language learning app, try using these words in sentences or quizzes to reinforce your memory.
Conclusion
Learning how to say “pull” and “push” on doors in German—ziehen and drücken—is an easy yet important step in your German language journey. These simple words will help you move confidently through everyday situations and improve your vocabulary. Whether you’re preparing for a trip or practicing with Talkpal, remembering these essential terms will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll find navigating doors—and the German language—much easier!
