traffic sign
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traffic sign
A sign at the side of the road that uses symbols or writing to give road users rules, prohibitions, or information.
Das achteckige Stoppschild ist ein international bekanntes Verkehrszeichen.
The octagonal stop sign is an internationally recognized traffic sign.
The word consists of 'Verkehr' (traffic) and 'Zeichen' (sign). So it is literally a sign that regulates traffic or provides information about it.
Ein neues Verkehrszeichen warnt vor der Baustelle.
A new traffic sign warns of the construction site.
Common verbs used in connection with traffic signs are 'beachten' (to observe/pay attention to), 'missachten' (to disregard), and 'übersehen' (to overlook). Authorities can 'aufstellen' (put up) or 'entfernen' (remove) traffic signs.
Wer ein Stoppschild übersieht, riskiert einen Unfall.
Anyone who overlooks a stop sign risks an accident.
A very common phrase is 'sich an ein Verkehrszeichen halten' (to obey a traffic sign). Note the reflexive verb and the preposition 'an' with the accusative.
Alle Fahrer müssen sich an die aufgestellten Verkehrszeichen halten.
All drivers must obey the traffic signs that have been put up.
sign / shield
'das Schild' and 'das Verkehrszeichen' can both be a board with symbols or text. 'das Schild' is more general and can hang on doors, paths, buildings, or machines. 'das Verkehrszeichen' is a specific sign used in road traffic. It gives rules or information to drivers, cyclists, or pedestrians. Learners may confuse the words because many traffic signs are also signs. But if it is not about road traffic, 'Verkehrszeichen' is not appropriate.
Vor der Schule zeigt ein Verkehrszeichen, dass man nur 30 fahren darf.
In front of the school, a traffic sign shows that you may only drive 30.
Neben der Tür steht ein Schild mit der Aufschrift „Bitte leise sein“.
Next to the door, there is a sign that says, “Please be quiet.”