In German

zu

Meaning: to (a person or specific place, with an article)

Example sentences

  • IchgehezuderSchule.

    I'm going to the school.

  • Kommzumir!

    Come to me!

  • WirfahrenzumBahnhof.

    We're driving to the train station.

Grammar note

“Zu” always takes Dativ. Unlike “nach” (cities, no article), “zu” is used for people and specific places, usually with an article: “zur Schule” (zu + der), “zum Bahnhof” (zu + dem).

Common mistake

Don't use “zu” for traveling to a city or country — that's “nach” with no article. “Zu” needs a specific place or person: “zum Arzt”, “zu meiner Oma”, not “zu Berlin”.

Quick check

Which preposition means “to” a person or specific place, usually with an article?

More words on this topic

nachto (a city or country, no article); afterbeiat, near, with (someone's place); at (a company)vonfrom, of (often a person or starting point)

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Frequently asked questions

What do “zur” and “zum” mean?

“Zur” contracts “zu der” (feminine), “zum” contracts “zu dem” (masculine/neuter).

When do I use “zu” instead of “nach”?

Use “zu” for people and specific places with an article; use “nach” for cities and countries with no article.