Auf
Example: Das Buch liegt auf dem Tisch im Wohnzimmer.
Definition
"auf" is a German preposition used to indicate position or location on a surface, often translated as "on" in English. It expresses where something is situated, such as in the example phrase, "Das Buch liegt auf dem Tisch im Wohnzimmer" (The book lies on the table in the living room).
Etymology
The German preposition "auf" originates from Old High German "uf" or "ufan," meaning "on" or "upon." It is related to similar prepositions in other Germanic languages, like English "off" and Dutch "af," though the meanings have diverged over time. Did you know? Despite their common roots, "auf" in German often conveys position 'on top of,' while English "off" indicates separation or removal.
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"Auf" appears in the Vocaplus list "German - General - (A1) - set 3", containing 104 commonly used words.
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