gen
toward
In the direction of; toward a particular place or destination. “Gen” is a shortened, mostly literary or elevated form of “gegen” (toward) and is used with the accusative.
EXAMPLE
Die Wanderer gingen gen Süden.
The hikers went southward.
gen
toward
gen + accusative
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Meanings
Usage tips
Elevated style
“Gen” sounds elevated, literary, or slightly old-fashioned. In everyday speech, people usually say “nach” (to) or “in Richtung” (in the direction of) instead.
EXAMPLE
Mit vollen Segeln fuhr das Schiff gen Norden.
With all sails set, the ship sailed northward.
Cardinal directions without an article
With cardinal directions, “gen” is normally used without an article. Common expressions are “gen Norden” (northward), “gen Süden” (southward), “gen Osten” (eastward), and “gen Westen” (westward).
EXAMPLE
Am nächsten Morgen zog die Gruppe weiter gen Westen.
The next morning, the group continued westward.
Looking and moving
“Gen” is not used only with verbs of movement. With “blicken” (to look), “schauen” (to look), or “den Blick richten” (to direct one's gaze), it can also indicate the destination of a gaze.
EXAMPLE
Der alte Mann richtete seinen Blick gen Himmel.
The old man directed his gaze skyward.
In real life
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