Nach or Zu
Both 'nach' and 'zu' can mean 'to', but they are used in different contexts and cannot be used interchangeably.
Understanding when to use each preposition is essential for correct German.
This lesson explains the differences and provides clear guidelines for usage.
Explanation
'Nach' is used with cities, countries, and directions: 'nach Berlin' (to Berlin), 'nach Hause' (home), 'nach rechts' (to the right).
'Zu' is used with people, places, and specific locations: 'zu dem Arzt' (to the doctor), 'zu der Schule' (to the school), 'zu meinem Freund' (to my friend).
'Nach' is used without articles: 'nach Deutschland' (to Germany), not 'nach dem Deutschland'.
'Zu' is used with articles (which can contract): 'zu dem Arzt' or 'zum Arzt' (to the doctor), 'zu der Schule' or 'zur Schule' (to the school).
'Nach Hause' is a special case meaning 'home' (direction), while 'zu Hause' means 'at home' (location).
'Nach' is also used for time: 'nach dem Essen' (after the meal).
Nach vs Zu - Usage Guide
| Use | Preposition | Example | Translation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cities/countries | nach | nach Berlin | to Berlin |
| Directions | nach | nach rechts | to the right |
| Home (direction) | nach | nach Hause | home |
| People | zu | zu meinem Freund | to my friend |
| Specific places | zu | zu der Schule | to the school |
| At home (location) | zu | zu Hause | at home |
Examples
Ich fahre nach Berlin.
I travel to Berlin. (city)
Ich gehe nach Deutschland.
I go to Germany. (country)
Ich gehe nach Hause.
I go home. (direction)
Ich gehe nach rechts.
I go to the right. (direction)
Ich gehe zu dem Arzt.
I go to the doctor. (person/place)
Ich gehe zu der Schule.
I go to the school. (specific place)
Ich bin zu Hause.
I am at home. (location)
Common Mistakes
Ich fahre zu Berlin
Ich fahre nach Berlin
Cities use 'nach', not 'zu'. 'Nach Berlin'.
Ich gehe nach dem Arzt
Ich gehe zu dem Arzt
People and specific places use 'zu', not 'nach'. 'Zu dem Arzt'.
Ich gehe zu Hause
Ich gehe nach Hause
Home (direction) uses 'nach', not 'zu'. 'Nach Hause' (but 'zu Hause' for location).
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding with interactive exercises. Practice makes perfect!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which article to use?
German articles (der, die, das) depend on the gender of the noun. While there are some patterns, many nouns must be memorized. Practice and exposure to German will help you learn them naturally.
What's the difference between definite and indefinite articles?
Definite articles (der, die, das) mean 'the' and refer to specific things. Indefinite articles (ein, eine) mean 'a/an' and refer to non-specific things. Both must match the noun's gender: use 'ein' for masculine/neuter and 'eine' for feminine.
Are there rules for determining noun gender?
While there are some helpful patterns (e.g., words ending in -ung are usually feminine), there are many exceptions. The best approach is to learn nouns with their articles from the beginning.
What happens if I use the wrong article?
While using the wrong article is a common mistake, native speakers will usually still understand you. However, using the correct article is important for sounding natural and fluent in German.