01
wegfahren
to go away
To leave a place by vehicle (car, train, bus, etc.), often for a trip or vacation.
example
Wir fahren nächstes Wochenende für ein paar Tage weg.
We're going away for a few days next weekend.
wegfahren
to go away / drive away
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Wegfahren' (to go away / drive away) is a separable verb. The prefix 'weg' comes at the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Wann fahrt ihr morgen früh weg?
When are you leaving tomorrow morning?
Auxiliary verb 'sein'
Since 'fahren' (to drive/go by vehicle) describes movement, the perfect tense of 'wegfahren' is always formed with the auxiliary verb 'sein'.
EXAMPLE
Meine Nachbarn sind gestern in den Urlaub weggefahren.
My neighbors went away on vacation yesterday.
Context clue
When 'wegfahren' has an accusative object, it means that something is being transported away. Without an object, it usually means that a person is going on a trip.
EXAMPLE
Kannst du bitte dein Fahrrad aus dem Weg wegfahren?
Can you please move your bike out of the way?
Fixed preposition
In the colloquial meaning 'to like something very much', 'wegfahren' is always used with the preposition 'auf' and the accusative.
EXAMPLE
Mein kleiner Bruder fährt total auf Superheldenfilme weg.
My little brother is totally crazy about superhero movies.
Register
The meaning 'to be enthusiastic about something' is purely colloquial and is used especially by younger people.
EXAMPLE
Die Fans fahren auf die neue Sängerin total weg.
The fans are totally crazy about the new singer.
Compare with
wegfahren vs lieben
to love
'lieben' and 'auf etwas wegfahren' can both express that you like something very much. 'lieben' is normal and works in many situations, for example with food, music, hobbies, or people. 'Auf etwas wegfahren' is very colloquial and sounds more like spontaneous enthusiasm or being crazy about something. It fits better in casual conversations, not in formal texts. In practical terms: 'lieben' is the safe choice, while 'auf etwas wegfahren' sounds casual and emphasizes that someone is really excited about something.
wegfahren
Mein Bruder fährt total auf alte Motorräder weg.
My brother is totally crazy about old motorcycles.
lieben
Nach einem langen Arbeitstag liebe ich eine heiße Suppe.
After a long day at work, I love a hot bowl of soup.
In real life
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