ran
closer
A colloquial short form of „heran“ (toward/closer): moving closer to a person or thing or up to its vicinity.
EXAMPLE
Komm ran, ich kann dich sonst nicht hören.
Come closer, otherwise I can't hear you.
ran
closer / get to it
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Meanings
ran an
get to it
A colloquial imperative to deal with something or begin a task.
EXAMPLE
Jetzt ran an die Arbeit, damit wir rechtzeitig fertig werden.
Now get to work so that we can finish on time.
Usage tips
Colloquial language
„Ran“ is used mainly in spoken, familiar colloquial language and often sounds direct and energetic in imperatives.
EXAMPLE
Geht mal näher ran, sonst seid ihr nicht alle auf dem Foto!
Come a little closer, otherwise you won't all fit in the picture!
Expressing proximity
In this meaning, „ran“ often follows verbs of movement or approach, especially in imperatives. Typical patterns are „komm ran“ (come closer), „rück ran“ (move closer), and „geh ran“ (go closer).
EXAMPLE
Rück ran, damit noch jemand auf die Bank passt.
Move closer so there's still room for someone else on the bench.
Fixed expression
In the imperative „ran an“ (get to), the preposition „an“ takes the accusative. The expression is often directed at people who are supposed to start a task immediately.
EXAMPLE
Ran an die Bücher, die Prüfung ist schon nächste Woche!
Get to the books—the exam is already next week!
In real life
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