01
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
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 03
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
'abschließen' and 'zumachen' can both mean that something is no longer open. The difference lies in the type of closing. 'zumachen' only says that you close a door, a window, a bag, or a container. 'abschließen' additionally means that you secure something with a key or bolt. That is why you can close a door without locking it. The words can be confused because in many everyday situations, both happen one after the other.
zumachen
Nach dem Lüften macht mein Bruder das Fenster wieder zu.
After airing the room, my brother closes the window again.
abschließen
Bitte schließ die Haustür ab, wenn du als Letzter gehst.
Please lock the front door if you are the last to leave.
In real life
Loading video examples...