los|gehen
Translation
to start, to begin, to set off, to come off
Examples
Wann geht der Film los?
When does the film start?
Wir müssen jetzt losgehen.
We have to set off now.
Der Knopf ist losgegangen.
The button has come off.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) geht los (sth.) starts The party starts at 8 PM.
((sb.)) geht los (sb.) sets off I have to set off now.
Similar Words
Synonyms: anfangen, beginnen, starten, abfahren; Antonyms: aufhören, ankommen
Etymology
Composed of the prefix 'los-' (off, away, starting) and the verb 'gehen' (to go). Literally 'to go off' or 'to start going'.
Memory Tips
The word 'Los!' is a command meaning 'Go!' or 'Start!'. Think of a starting pistol firing and everyone 'goes off' (geht los).