01
dort
there
Refers to a place that is some distance away from the speaker. It is the opposite of 'hier' (here).
example
Hier ist mein Platz, und du kannst dich dort hinsetzen.
Here is my seat, and you can sit down there.
dort
there
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Place vs. direction
The adverb 'dort' (there) describes a static position (answer to 'Wo?' — where?). To express movement in a direction (answer to 'Wohin?' — where to?), the form 'dorthin' (there / to there) is used.
EXAMPLE
Das Hotel, in dem wir übernachten, ist genau dort.
The hotel where we are staying is right there.
Register and style
'Dort' (there) is often used in written language or in more formal contexts. It emphasizes a clear spatial distance from the speaker and creates a precise contrast with 'hier' (here).
EXAMPLE
Die Dokumente finden Sie in dem Ordner dort auf dem Schreibtisch.
You will find the documents in that folder there on the desk.
Typical combinations
To describe the position more precisely, 'dort' (there) is often combined with other adverbs. Common combinations are 'dort drüben' (over there), 'dort hinten' (back there), 'dort oben' (up there), or 'genau dort' (right there).
EXAMPLE
Schau mal, dort drüben fliegt ein Heißluftballon.
Look, there is a hot-air balloon flying over there.
Context clue
When 'dort' (there) is used in discussions about texts, ideas, or processes, it does not refer to a physical place, but to an abstract point. Words like 'Argument' (argument), 'Punkt' (point), or 'Kritik' (criticism) in the sentence are clear signals of this.
EXAMPLE
Du sagst, der Plan sei zu teuer, und genau dort stimme ich dir nicht zu.
You say the plan is too expensive, and that is exactly where I disagree with you.
Compare with
dort vs da
there / since / then
'da' and 'dort' can both point to a place. 'dort' clearly means a place that is not where the speaker is, so it is more like farther away. 'da' is more general and can mean 'here' or 'there' depending on the situation. People often use 'da' when the place is already clear in the conversation or when they are pointing at something. Learners confuse the words because both can mean 'at that place'. If you clearly want to say 'not here', 'dort' is more precise.
dort
Die Apotheke ist dort drüben an der Ecke.
The pharmacy is over there on the corner.
da
Stell die Tasche bitte da neben die Tür.
Please put the bag there next to the door.
In real life
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