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geradeaus
straight ahead
Describes a movement or direction that goes directly forward without turning.
example
Fahren Sie an der nächsten Kreuzung einfach geradeaus weiter.
At the next intersection, simply keep going straight ahead.
geradeaus
straight ahead / straightforward
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word composition
The word 'geradeaus' (straight ahead) is made up of 'gerade' (straight) and 'aus' (out). Literally, it describes a movement that leads 'straight' out from a point, meaning directly forward.
EXAMPLE
Gehen Sie hier einfach immer geradeaus, dann kommen Sie direkt zum Bahnhof.
Just keep going straight ahead here, and then you'll come directly to the train station.
Context clue
You can tell whether the literal or figurative meaning is intended from the verb. Verbs of movement like 'gehen' (to go/walk) or 'fahren' (to drive/go) point to direction, while verbs of speaking or description point to an honest character.
EXAMPLE
Der Weg führt zwei Kilometer geradeaus durch den Wald.
The path goes straight ahead through the forest for two kilometers.
Sentence structure and use
As an adverb of direction, 'geradeaus' (straight ahead) usually stands directly after the verb of movement. It answers the question 'Wohin?' (Where to?).
EXAMPLE
Du musst an der Ampel nicht abbiegen, fahr einfach geradeaus.
You don't have to turn at the traffic light; just drive straight ahead.
Typical collocations
In the figurative meaning, 'geradeaus' (straightforward) is often combined with verbs of speaking or with the verb 'sein' (to be) to describe a direct and honest person.
EXAMPLE
Ich mag sie, weil sie so eine ehrliche und geradeaus Person ist.
I like her because she is such an honest and straightforward person.
Compare with
geradeaus vs gerade
right now / straight
'gerade' and 'geradeaus' are both connected to a direct line. 'gerade' usually describes a shape or position: a line, a path, or a board is not curved. 'geradeaus' describes a direction or movement: someone walks or drives forward and does not turn. The words can be confusing because both refer to something direct. But if you are describing a thing, 'gerade' fits; if you are saying where someone is walking or driving, 'geradeaus' fits.
geradeaus
An der Kreuzung fährt der Bus geradeaus weiter.
At the intersection, the bus continues straight ahead.
gerade
Nach dem Umzug prüft Lisa, ob das Regal gerade steht.
After the move, Lisa checks whether the shelf is standing straight.
In real life
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