auf|passen
Translation
to pay attention, to watch out, to look after
Examples
Pass auf, das Auto kommt!
Watch out, the car is coming!
Im Unterricht müssen wir gut aufpassen.
We have to pay close attention in class.
Kannst du heute auf die Kinder aufpassen?
Can you look after the children today?
Grammar Patterns
((auf sb./sth.)) ((aufpassen)) to look after/watch sb./sth. Please watch my suitcase.
((aufpassen)), ((dass ...)) to watch out that ... Watch out that you don't fall.
Similar Words
Synonyms: achten auf, achtgeben; Antonyms: ignorieren (to ignore), unachtsam sein (to be careless)
Etymology
From 'auf' (on, upon) + 'passen' (to fit). The idea is to make your attention 'fit onto' something.
Memory Tips
Imagine your attention 'fitting onto' a specific object or situation.