01
aufschreiben
to write down
To record something in writing so as not to forget it; to make a note.
example
Kannst du mir bitte deine Adresse aufschreiben?
Can you please write down your address for me?
aufschreiben
to write down
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Aufschreiben' (to write down) is a separable verb. The prefix 'auf-' goes at the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Ich schreibe mir deine Nummer sofort auf.
I'll write down your number right away.
Dative construction
'Aufschreiben' (to write down) is very often used with a dative object that indicates the person for whom something is written down. The structure is: jemandem (dative) etwas (accusative) aufschreiben.
EXAMPLE
Der Polizist schrieb dem Zeugen seine Kontaktdaten auf.
The police officer wrote down his contact details for the witness.
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'notieren' (to note down), the verb is often combined with information you don't want to forget: write down an address, a phone number, a thought, an idea, or a shopping list.
EXAMPLE
Er hat sich während des Vortrags viele Notizen aufgeschrieben.
He wrote down a lot of notes during the lecture.
Context clue
When the verb is used in the context of doctors, patients, or pharmacies, it means 'ein Rezept ausstellen' (to issue a prescription) or 'verordnen' (to prescribe). Signal words are 'Arzt' (doctor), 'Rezept' (prescription), or names of medications.
EXAMPLE
Meine Ärztin hat mir Antibiotika aufgeschrieben.
My doctor prescribed me antibiotics.
Context clue
In a shop, bar, or restaurant, 'etwas aufschreiben lassen' (to have something put on a tab) means that you don't pay immediately, but have the amount put on a bill. You often hear the question: 'Können Sie das aufschreiben?' (Can you put that on my tab?).
EXAMPLE
Ich habe mein Portemonnaie vergessen, können Sie die Getränke bitte aufschreiben?
I forgot my wallet; can you please put the drinks on my tab?
Compare with
aufschreiben vs schreiben
to write
'schreiben' and 'aufschreiben' can both mean that you record words or information in writing. 'schreiben' is the general word and works for texts of any length, for example letters, messages, or assignments. 'aufschreiben' is used especially when you record something so that you do not forget it. It is often about notes, names, addresses, appointments, or ideas. Learners may confuse the words because both look very similar. The practical difference is: you write a text, but you write down an important piece of information.
aufschreiben
Zur Vorbereitung schreibe ich mir bei der Arbeit alle Fragen auf.
To prepare, I write down all the questions at work.
schreiben
In der Bibliothek schreiben wir morgen den Text für unser Referat.
Tomorrow in the library we are writing the text for our presentation.
In real life
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