zumachen
to close
To close an object, an opening, or a container so that nothing can get in or out anymore.
EXAMPLE
Kannst du bitte das Fenster zumachen? Es zieht.
Can you please close the window? There’s a draft.
zumachen
to close / hurry up
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Meanings
zumachen
to close down
To close a shop, restaurant, or institution for the day or permanently.
EXAMPLE
Der kleine Buchladen an der Ecke musste leider zumachen.
Unfortunately, the small bookshop on the corner had to close down.
zumachen
to hurry up
A colloquial command telling someone to hurry up.
EXAMPLE
Mach zu, der Zug fährt gleich ab!
Hurry up, the train is about to leave!
Usage tips
Separable verb
'Zumachen' (to close) is a separable verb. The prefix 'zu' goes to the end in main clauses. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu,' the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Ich mache schnell die Tür zu.
I’ll quickly close the door.
Colloquial use
The verb 'zumachen' (to close) is very common in everyday spoken language. It often sounds more direct and informal.
EXAMPLE
Mach bitte die Jacke zu, es ist kalt draußen.
Please zip up your jacket; it’s cold outside.
Typical collocations
Common things that you 'zumacht' (close) are openings or objects with openings. Typical examples are: 'die Augen zumachen' (to close one’s eyes), 'den Mund zumachen' (to close one’s mouth / shut one’s mouth), 'ein Buch zumachen' (to close a book), or 'einen Reißverschluss zumachen' (to zip up a zipper).
EXAMPLE
Wenn ich müde bin, kann ich kaum die Augen aufhalten und mache sie einfach zu.
When I’m tired, I can hardly keep my eyes open and just close them.
Fixed expression
The command 'Mach zu!' is a fixed colloquial expression and means 'Hurry up!' It is used without an object and is very informal.
EXAMPLE
Mach endlich zu, wir kommen zu spät!
Hurry up already, we’re going to be late!
Compare with
zumachen vs abschließen
to lock / to complete
Both words can mean that a door is closed. „Zumachen“ usually only describes the fact that the door is no longer open, while „abschließen“ additionally emphasizes securing it with a key or bolt. If you only mean closing the door, use „zumachen“; if no one should be able to open it, use „abschließen“.
zumachen
Bitte mach die Haustür zu, weil es im Flur kalt ist.
Please close the front door because the hallway is cold.
abschließen
Bitte schließ die Haustür ab, damit niemand sie von außen öffnen kann.
Please lock the front door so that no one can open it from outside.
In real life
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