Appearance
Netzwerk 2: Hobbies
Chapter 2 — free time activities, professions, and time vocabulary.
Maskulin Feminin Neutrum Plural
das Hobby — hobby
Germans love their Hobbys — it's an English loanword, so the plural is "Hobbys" (not "Hobbies"). "Was sind deine Hobbys?" is a classic conversation starter.
Nom Das Hobby macht Spaß.
The hobby is fun.
das Hobby (neutrum) = hobby · machen = to make/do · der Spaß = fun. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Hobby is the subject. "Spaß machen" is a fixed expression = "to be fun".
Akk Ich habe ein Hobby.
I have a hobby.
das Hobby (neutrum) = hobby · haben = to have. "Ein" because neutrum Akkusativ (das → das, ein → ein — neutrum doesn't change). Hobby is the direct object.
Dat Er erzählt von dem Hobby.
He tells about the hobby.
das Hobby (neutrum) = hobby · erzählen = to tell · von = about/from. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "von" (always Dativ).
das Buch — book
The plural "Bücher" shows a common pattern: the vowel gets an Umlaut (u → ü) and adds "-er". Germany has a strong reading culture — look for "Buchhandlungen" (bookshops) everywhere.
Nom Das Buch ist interessant.
The book is interesting.
das Buch (neutrum) = book · interessant = interesting. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Buch is the subject.
Akk Sie liest das Buch gern.
She likes reading the book.
das Buch (neutrum) = book · lesen = to read (sie liest) · gern = gladly. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ (neutrum doesn't change). Buch is the direct object.
Dat Die Geschichte steht in dem Buch.
The story is in the book.
das Buch (neutrum) = book · die Geschichte = story · stehen = to stand/be located · in = in. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in" (location = Dativ).
das Café — café
"das Café" (with accent) is the place; "der Kaffee" is the drink — don't mix them up! German café culture is big: people meet for "Kaffee und Kuchen" (coffee and cake) in the afternoon.
Nom Das Café ist gemütlich.
The café is cozy.
das Café (neutrum) = café · gemütlich = cozy (a very German concept!). "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Café is the subject.
Akk Ich suche ein Café.
I'm looking for a café.
das Café (neutrum) = café · suchen = to look for/search. "Ein" because neutrum Akkusativ (ein → ein, no change). Café is the direct object.
Dat Wir treffen uns in dem Café.
We are meeting in the café.
das Café (neutrum) = café · sich treffen = to meet · in = in. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in" (location = Dativ). Often shortened to "im Café".
der Computer — computer
Another English word — but pronounced the German way: "kom-PYU-ter". The plural "die Computer" is identical to the singular (only the article changes). Words ending in "-er" often work like this.
Nom Der Computer ist neu.
The computer is new.
der Computer (maskulin) = computer · neu = new. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Computer is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche den Computer.
I need the computer.
der Computer (maskulin) = computer · brauchen = to need. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Computer is the direct object.
Dat Ich arbeite an dem Computer.
I work at the computer.
der Computer (maskulin) = computer · arbeiten = to work · an = at/on. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "an" (location = Dativ). Often shortened to "am Computer".
die Verabredung — date / appointment / arrangement to meet
Nouns ending in "-ung" are always feminine (die) — a super useful rule! A "Verabredung" is any arranged meeting with friends, not just a romantic date. Plural: die Verabredungen.
Nom Die Verabredung ist am Freitag.
The date is on Friday.
die Verabredung (feminin, -ung rule) = date/arrangement · am Freitag = on Friday. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Verabredung is the subject.
Akk Ich habe eine Verabredung.
I have a date/an appointment.
die Verabredung (feminin) = date · haben = to have. "Eine" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die, eine → eine — feminin doesn't change). Verabredung is the direct object.
Dat Ich komme zu spät zu der Verabredung.
I'm coming too late to the date.
die Verabredung (feminin) = date · zu spät = too late · zu = to. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "zu" (always Dativ). Often shortened to "zur Verabredung".
der Freund — friend (male) / boyfriend
Context matters: "mein Freund" can mean "my (male) friend" OR "my boyfriend". To be clear about friendship, say "ein Freund von mir" (a friend of mine). Plural: die Freunde.
Nom Der Freund ist nett.
The friend is nice.
der Freund (maskulin) = friend/boyfriend · nett = nice. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Freund is the subject.
Akk Ich besuche den Freund.
I visit the friend.
der Freund (maskulin) = friend · besuchen = to visit. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Freund is the direct object.
Dat Ich spiele mit dem Freund Fußball.
I play football with the friend.
der Freund (maskulin) = friend · spielen = to play · mit = with. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit" (always Dativ).
die Freundin — friend (female) / girlfriend
The "-in" ending makes a female version — and words ending in "-in" are always feminine (die). Like "Freund", it can mean "girlfriend" too. Plural doubles the n: die Freundinnen.
Nom Die Freundin wohnt in Berlin.
The friend lives in Berlin.
die Freundin (feminin, -in rule) = friend/girlfriend · wohnen = to live/reside. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Freundin is the subject.
Akk Ich rufe die Freundin an.
I call the friend.
die Freundin (feminin) = friend · anrufen = to call (separable: rufe … an). "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Freundin is the direct object.
Dat Ich helfe der Freundin.
I help the friend.
die Freundin (feminin) = friend · helfen = to help. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der). The verb "helfen" always takes a Dativ object — Freundin is the Dativ object.
die Leute — people (plural only)
"Leute" only exists in the plural — there's no singular! It's the everyday word for "people". For a formal/official "person" use "die Person" (singular) or "die Personen" (plural).
Nom Die Leute sind freundlich.
The people are friendly.
die Leute (plural) = people · freundlich = friendly. "Die" — plural Nominativ. Leute is the subject; note the plural verb "sind".
Akk Ich kenne die Leute.
I know the people.
die Leute (plural) = people · kennen = to know (people/things). "Die" stays "die" in plural Akkusativ (no change). Leute is the direct object.
Dat Ich spreche mit den Leuten.
I speak with the people.
die Leute (plural) = people · sprechen = to speak · mit = with. "Den" because plural Dativ (die → den) after "mit", and plural nouns add "-n" in Dativ: Leute → Leuten.
der Fußball — football / soccer
"Fußball" = both the sport and the ball. It's Germany's national passion — the Bundesliga and the Nationalmannschaft are huge. Usually used in the singular (Sg.).
Nom Der Fußball ist rund.
The football is round.
der Fußball (maskulin) = football · rund = round. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Fußball is the subject.
Akk Wir spielen Fußball im Park.
We play football in the park.
der Fußball (maskulin) = football · spielen = to play. In "Fußball spielen" the sport is used without an article (a fixed phrase). Grammatically it's the Akkusativ object of "spielen".
Dat Er spielt mit dem Fußball.
He plays with the football (ball).
der Fußball (maskulin) = the ball · spielen = to play · mit = with. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit" (always Dativ).
Tennis spielen — to play tennis
Sports use "spielen" without an article: Tennis spielen, Fußball spielen, Karten spielen. "Tennis" is neuter (das Tennis) but you rarely need the article — just say "Ich spiele Tennis."
Nom Die Frau spielt gern Tennis.
The woman likes playing tennis.
Tennis spielen = to play tennis · die Frau = woman (feminin) · gern = gladly. "Die Frau" is the subject (Nominativ) doing the action; verb "spielt" (er/sie/es form).
Akk Ich spiele Tennis und treffe den Ball.
I play tennis and hit the ball.
Tennis spielen = to play tennis · treffen = to hit/meet · der Ball = ball. "Den Ball" is the direct object → maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). "Ich spiele" (1st person).
Dat Ich spiele mit der Freundin Tennis.
I play tennis with the (female) friend.
Tennis spielen = to play tennis · mit = with · die Freundin = friend. "Der Freundin" is Dativ (die → der) after "mit" (always Dativ).
joggen — to jog
Another English import, pronounced "DSCHOG-gen". Regular verb: ich jogge, du joggst, er joggt. Germans love outdoor exercise — parks and forests are full of Jogger.
Nom Der Mann joggt jeden Morgen.
The man jogs every morning.
joggen = to jog · der Mann = man (maskulin) · jeden Morgen = every morning. "Der Mann" is the subject (Nominativ); verb "joggt" (er form).
Akk Ich jogge eine Stunde.
I jog for an hour.
joggen = to jog · die Stunde = hour. "Eine Stunde" is an Akkusativ time expression (a duration → Akkusativ, feminin: eine → eine). "Ich jogge" (1st person).
Dat Ich jogge in dem Park.
I jog in the park.
joggen = to jog · in = in · der Park = park. "Dem Park" is Dativ (der → dem) after "in" (location = Dativ). Often shortened to "im Park".
schwimmen — to swim
A strong verb: ich schwimme, du schwimmst, er schwimmt (present is regular, but past is "schwamm"). In summer, Germans flock to the "Freibad" (outdoor pool) and lakes ("der See").
Nom Die Kinder schwimmen gern.
The children like to swim.
schwimmen = to swim · die Kinder = children (plural) · gern = gladly. "Die Kinder" is the plural subject (Nominativ); verb "schwimmen" (plural form).
Akk Ich schwimme zehn Runden.
I swim ten laps.
schwimmen = to swim · die Runde = lap/round (plural Runden) · zehn = ten. "Zehn Runden" is the Akkusativ object (how much you swim). "Ich schwimme" (1st person).
Dat Wir schwimmen in dem See.
We swim in the lake.
schwimmen = to swim · in = in · der See = lake. "Dem See" is Dativ (der → dem) after "in" (location = Dativ). Often shortened to "im See".
das Kino — cinema / movie theater
"ins Kino gehen" (to go to the cinema) is a classic date or weekend plan. Note: many films are dubbed into German ("auf Deutsch"), but big cities have "OV" (Originalversion) showings too.
Nom Das Kino ist groß.
The cinema is big.
das Kino (neutrum) = cinema · groß = big. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Kino is the subject.
Akk Wir gehen ins Kino.
We are going to the cinema.
das Kino (neutrum) = cinema · gehen = to go · in = into. "Ins" = "in das" — Akkusativ because there is movement/direction (into the cinema). Direction = Akkusativ.
Dat Ich treffe dich vor dem Kino.
I'll meet you in front of the cinema.
das Kino (neutrum) = cinema · treffen = to meet · vor = in front of. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "vor" (location = Dativ).
das Theater — theater
"das Theater" also means "drama/fuss" in slang: "Mach kein Theater!" = "Don't make a fuss!". The plural "die Theater" is identical to the singular (like other "-er" words).
Nom Das Theater ist berühmt.
The theater is famous.
das Theater (neutrum) = theater · berühmt = famous. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Theater is the subject.
Akk Ich besuche das Theater.
I visit the theater.
das Theater (neutrum) = theater · besuchen = to visit. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ (neutrum doesn't change). Theater is the direct object.
Dat Wir sind in dem Theater.
We are in the theater.
das Theater (neutrum) = theater · sein = to be · in = in. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in" (location = Dativ). Often shortened to "im Theater".
das Museum — museum
Latin-origin words ending in "-um" are neuter and form the plural with "-en": das Museum → die Museen. Berlin's "Museumsinsel" (Museum Island) is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Nom Das Museum ist heute geöffnet.
The museum is open today.
das Museum (neutrum) = museum · heute = today · geöffnet = open. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Museum is the subject.
Akk Wir besuchen das Museum.
We visit the museum.
das Museum (neutrum) = museum · besuchen = to visit. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ (neutrum doesn't change). Museum is the direct object.
Dat Ich lerne viel in dem Museum.
I learn a lot in the museum.
das Museum (neutrum) = museum · lernen = to learn · viel = a lot · in = in. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in" (location = Dativ). Often "im Museum".
die Musik — music
"die Musik" is usually used only in the singular. Germany's musical heritage runs deep — Bach, Beethoven, Brahms — but "Musik hören" (to listen to music) is an everyday hobby too.
Nom Die Musik ist laut.
The music is loud.
die Musik (feminin) = music · laut = loud. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Musik is the subject.
Akk Ich höre gern Musik.
I like listening to music.
die Musik (feminin) = music · hören = to hear/listen · gern = gladly. "Musik" is the Akkusativ object of "hören" (feminin: die → die, no change). Here it's used without an article as a general concept.
Dat Wir tanzen zu der Musik.
We dance to the music.
die Musik (feminin) = music · tanzen = to dance · zu = to. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "zu" (always Dativ). Often shortened to "zur Musik".
das Schwimmbad — swimming pool
"Schwimmen" + "das Bad" (bath) = das Schwimmbad. The last word decides the gender, so it's neuter (das Bad). Plural adds Umlaut: die Schwimmbäder. An outdoor one is a "Freibad".
Nom Das Schwimmbad ist warm.
The swimming pool is warm.
das Schwimmbad (neutrum, from das Bad) = swimming pool · warm = warm. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Schwimmbad is the subject.
Akk Ich suche ein Schwimmbad.
I'm looking for a swimming pool.
das Schwimmbad (neutrum) = swimming pool · suchen = to look for. "Ein" because neutrum Akkusativ (ein → ein, no change). Schwimmbad is the direct object.
Dat Die Kinder sind in dem Schwimmbad.
The children are in the swimming pool.
das Schwimmbad (neutrum) = swimming pool · in = in. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in" (location = Dativ). Often "im Schwimmbad".
fotografieren — to photograph
Verbs ending in "-ieren" (from Latin/French) are always regular AND never take "ge-" in the past participle: "Ich habe fotografiert" (not gefotografiert). ich fotografiere, du fotografierst.
Nom Der Tourist fotografiert viel.
The tourist photographs a lot.
fotografieren = to photograph · der Tourist = tourist (maskulin) · viel = a lot. "Der Tourist" is the subject (Nominativ); verb "fotografiert" (er form).
Akk Ich fotografiere die Stadt.
I photograph the city.
fotografieren = to photograph · die Stadt = city (feminin). "Die Stadt" is the direct object → feminin Akkusativ (die → die, no change). "Ich fotografiere" (1st person).
Dat Ich fotografiere mit der Kamera.
I photograph with the camera.
fotografieren = to photograph · mit = with · die Kamera = camera. "Der Kamera" is Dativ (die → der) after "mit" (always Dativ).
das Foto — photo
"das Foto" (the picture) vs "der Fotoapparat/die Kamera" (the camera) — don't mix them up. Plural: die Fotos (with -s, like many loanwords). "ein Foto machen" = to take a photo.
Nom Das Foto ist schön.
The photo is beautiful.
das Foto (neutrum) = photo · schön = beautiful. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Foto is the subject.
Akk Ich mache ein Foto.
I take a photo.
das Foto (neutrum) = photo · machen = to make/take. "Ein" because neutrum Akkusativ (ein → ein, no change). Foto is the direct object. "ein Foto machen" = to take a photo.
Dat Auf dem Foto ist meine Familie.
My family is in the photo.
das Foto (neutrum) = photo · auf = on/in · die Familie = family. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "auf" (location = Dativ).
kochen — to cook
A regular verb: ich koche, du kochst, er kocht. It also means "to boil" (Wasser kocht = the water is boiling). Related noun: "der Koch" (cook, see below).
Nom Die Mutter kocht gut.
The mother cooks well.
kochen = to cook · die Mutter = mother (feminin) · gut = well/good. "Die Mutter" is the subject (Nominativ); verb "kocht" (sie form).
Akk Ich koche eine Suppe.
I cook a soup.
kochen = to cook · die Suppe = soup (feminin). "Eine Suppe" is the direct object → feminin Akkusativ (eine → eine, no change). "Ich koche" (1st person).
Dat Ich koche mit der Freundin.
I cook with the (female) friend.
kochen = to cook · mit = with · die Freundin = friend. "Der Freundin" is Dativ (die → der) after "mit" (always Dativ).
reisen — to travel
A regular verb: ich reise, du reist, er reist. Note it uses "sein" in the perfect: "Ich bin gereist" (movement verbs take sein). Related noun: "die Reise" (the trip/journey).
Nom Die Studenten reisen gern.
The students like to travel.
reisen = to travel · die Studenten = students (plural) · gern = gladly. "Die Studenten" is the plural subject (Nominativ); verb "reisen" (plural form).
Akk Ich reise eine Woche durch Italien.
I travel through Italy for a week.
reisen = to travel · die Woche = week · durch = through. "Eine Woche" is an Akkusativ time span (duration → Akkusativ, feminin: eine → eine). "durch" also always takes Akkusativ.
Dat Ich reise mit dem Zug.
I travel by train.
reisen = to travel · mit = with/by · der Zug = train. "Dem Zug" is Dativ (der → dem) after "mit" (always Dativ). "mit dem Zug" = by train (means of transport uses mit + Dativ).
singen — to sing
A strong verb: ich singe, du singst, er singt (past: sang, gesungen). Choirs ("der Chor") are very popular in Germany — many people sing in one. Related: "das Lied" (song).
Nom Die Frau singt schön.
The woman sings beautifully.
singen = to sing · die Frau = woman (feminin) · schön = beautifully. "Die Frau" is the subject (Nominativ); verb "singt" (sie form).
Akk Wir singen ein Lied.
We sing a song.
singen = to sing · das Lied = song (neutrum). "Ein Lied" is the direct object → neutrum Akkusativ (ein → ein, no change). "Wir singen" (plural form).
Dat Ich singe in dem Chor.
I sing in the choir.
singen = to sing · in = in · der Chor = choir. "Dem Chor" is Dativ (der → dem) after "in" (location = Dativ). Often shortened to "im Chor".
tanzen — to dance
A regular verb: ich tanze, du tanzt, er tanzt. Note that because the stem ends in "z", the "du" form is just "tanzt" (not "tanzst"). Many German towns have a "Tanzschule" (dance school).
Nom Das Paar tanzt gut.
The couple dances well.
tanzen = to dance · das Paar = couple (neutrum) · gut = well. "Das Paar" is the subject (Nominativ); verb "tanzt" (es form).
Akk Wir tanzen den Walzer.
We dance the waltz.
tanzen = to dance · der Walzer = waltz (maskulin). "Den Walzer" is the direct object → maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). "Wir tanzen" (plural form).
Dat Ich tanze mit dem Mann.
I dance with the man.
tanzen = to dance · mit = with · der Mann = man. "Dem Mann" is Dativ (der → dem) after "mit" (always Dativ).
frei|haben — to have time off / be free (not working)
A separable verb: the "frei" splits off to the end — "Ich habe heute frei" (I have the day off today). It's about being off work/school, different from "frei sein" (to be available/vacant).
Nom Der Lehrer hat heute frei.
The teacher has the day off today.
freihaben = to have time off · der Lehrer = teacher (maskulin) · heute = today. "Der Lehrer" is the subject (Nominativ); separable verb splits: "hat … frei".
Akk Ich habe den ganzen Tag frei.
I have the whole day off.
freihaben = to have off · der Tag = day · ganz = whole. "Den ganzen Tag" is an Akkusativ time expression (der → den, adjective ends -en in maskulin Akkusativ). The verb still splits: "habe … frei".
Dat An dem Wochenende habe ich frei.
On the weekend I have time off.
freihaben = to have off · an = on · das Wochenende = weekend. "Dem Wochenende" is Dativ (das → dem) after "an" (time-when = Dativ). Often shortened to "am Wochenende".
arbeiten — to work
Because the stem ends in "-t", you add an extra "e" for easy pronunciation: du arbeitest, er arbeitet (not "arbeitt"). Related noun: "die Arbeit" (work/job).
Nom Der Vater arbeitet viel.
The father works a lot.
arbeiten = to work · der Vater = father (maskulin) · viel = a lot. "Der Vater" is the subject (Nominativ); verb "arbeitet" (er form, with extra -e-).
Akk Ich arbeite den ganzen Tag.
I work the whole day.
arbeiten = to work · der Tag = day · ganz = whole. "Den ganzen Tag" is an Akkusativ time expression (der → den, adjective -en). "Ich arbeite" (1st person).
Dat Ich arbeite in der Firma.
I work at the company.
arbeiten = to work · in = in/at · die Firma = company. "Der Firma" is Dativ (die → der) after "in" (location = Dativ).
der Beruf — profession / job
"Was sind Sie von Beruf?" = "What's your profession?" — a standard question. "Beruf" is a career/trade; a specific position at a company is more "die Stelle" or "der Job". Plural: die Berufe.
Nom Der Beruf ist interessant.
The profession is interesting.
der Beruf (maskulin) = profession · interessant = interesting. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Beruf is the subject.
Akk Ich lerne einen Beruf.
I'm learning a trade.
der Beruf (maskulin) = profession · lernen = to learn. "Einen" because maskulin Akkusativ (ein → einen). Beruf is the direct object.
Dat In dem Beruf verdient man gut.
In that profession you earn well.
der Beruf (maskulin) = profession · in = in · verdienen = to earn · man = one/you. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in". Often shortened to "im Beruf".
der Arzt — doctor (male)
Plural adds Umlaut: der Arzt → die Ärzte. "zum Arzt gehen" = to go to the doctor. Note: a "Doktor" title is academic; you call your physician "der Arzt / die Ärztin".
Nom Der Arzt ist freundlich.
The doctor is friendly.
der Arzt (maskulin) = doctor · freundlich = friendly. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Arzt is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche einen Arzt.
I need a doctor.
der Arzt (maskulin) = doctor · brauchen = to need. "Einen" because maskulin Akkusativ (ein → einen). Arzt is the direct object.
Dat Ich gehe zu dem Arzt.
I go to the doctor.
der Arzt (maskulin) = doctor · gehen = to go · zu = to. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "zu" (always Dativ). Often shortened to "zum Arzt".
die Ärztin — doctor (female)
The female form: der Arzt → die Ärztin. The "-in" ending makes it feminine (always die). Plural: die Ärztinnen (double n). Note the Umlaut: A → Ä.
Nom Die Ärztin hilft mir.
The doctor helps me.
die Ärztin (feminin, -in rule) = doctor · helfen = to help · mir = me (Dat). "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Ärztin is the subject.
Akk Ich frage die Ärztin.
I ask the doctor.
die Ärztin (feminin) = doctor · fragen = to ask. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Ärztin is the direct object.
Dat Ich habe einen Termin bei der Ärztin.
I have an appointment with the doctor.
die Ärztin (feminin) = doctor · der Termin = appointment · bei = at/with. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "bei" (always Dativ).
das Krankenhaus — hospital
"krank" (sick) + "das Haus" (house) = das Krankenhaus. The last part (Haus) sets the gender: neuter. Plural adds Umlaut: die Krankenhäuser. A synonym is "die Klinik".
Nom Das Krankenhaus ist groß.
The hospital is big.
das Krankenhaus (neutrum, from das Haus) = hospital · groß = big. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Krankenhaus is the subject.
Akk Ich suche das Krankenhaus.
I'm looking for the hospital.
das Krankenhaus (neutrum) = hospital · suchen = to look for. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ (neutrum doesn't change). Krankenhaus is the direct object.
Dat Die Ärztin arbeitet in dem Krankenhaus.
The doctor works in the hospital.
das Krankenhaus (neutrum) = hospital · arbeiten = to work · in = in. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in" (location = Dativ). Often "im Krankenhaus".
der Friseur — hairdresser (male)
A French loanword (pronounced "fri-ZÖR"). The female form is "die Friseurin" or the older "die Friseuse". "zum Friseur gehen" = to go to the hairdresser. Plural: die Friseure.
Nom Der Friseur ist gut.
The hairdresser is good.
der Friseur (maskulin) = hairdresser · gut = good. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Friseur is the subject.
Akk Ich suche einen Friseur.
I'm looking for a hairdresser.
der Friseur (maskulin) = hairdresser · suchen = to look for. "Einen" because maskulin Akkusativ (ein → einen). Friseur is the direct object.
Dat Ich gehe zu dem Friseur.
I go to the hairdresser.
der Friseur (maskulin) = hairdresser · gehen = to go · zu = to. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "zu" (always Dativ). Often "zum Friseur".
die Kellnerin — waitress
Female form of "der Kellner" (waiter); "-in" makes it feminine. In Germany you often call the waiter with "Entschuldigung!" and tip by rounding up. Plural: die Kellnerinnen.
Nom Die Kellnerin ist nett.
The waitress is nice.
die Kellnerin (feminin, -in rule) = waitress · nett = nice. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Kellnerin is the subject.
Akk Ich frage die Kellnerin.
I ask the waitress.
die Kellnerin (feminin) = waitress · fragen = to ask. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Kellnerin is the direct object.
Dat Ich gebe der Kellnerin Trinkgeld.
I give the waitress a tip.
die Kellnerin (feminin) = waitress · geben = to give · das Trinkgeld = tip. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der). With "geben", the receiver is the Dativ (indirect) object — Kellnerin gets the tip.
der Koch — cook / chef (male)
From the verb "kochen" (to cook). Plural adds Umlaut: der Koch → die Köche. Fun proverb: "Viele Köche verderben den Brei" = "Too many cooks spoil the broth".
Nom Der Koch kocht gut.
The cook cooks well.
der Koch (maskulin) = cook · kochen = to cook · gut = well. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Koch is the subject.
Akk Das Restaurant sucht einen Koch.
The restaurant is looking for a cook.
der Koch (maskulin) = cook · suchen = to look for. "Einen" because maskulin Akkusativ (ein → einen). Koch is the direct object.
Dat Ich spreche mit dem Koch.
I speak with the cook.
der Koch (maskulin) = cook · sprechen = to speak · mit = with. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit" (always Dativ).
die Köchin — cook / chef (female)
Female form of "der Koch" — note the Umlaut o → ö plus "-in". Words in "-in" are always feminine (die). Plural: die Köchinnen (double n).
Nom Die Köchin ist berühmt.
The (female) cook is famous.
die Köchin (feminin, -in rule) = cook · berühmt = famous. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Köchin is the subject.
Akk Ich kenne die Köchin.
I know the cook.
die Köchin (feminin) = cook · kennen = to know. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Köchin is the direct object.
Dat Ich lerne von der Köchin.
I learn from the cook.
die Köchin (feminin) = cook · lernen = to learn · von = from. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "von" (always Dativ).
der Krankenpfleger — nurse (male)
"krank" (sick) + "pflegen" (to care for). The female form is "die Krankenpflegerin" or "die Krankenschwester". Plural: die Krankenpfleger (same as singular, -er ending).
Nom Der Krankenpfleger ist geduldig.
The nurse is patient.
der Krankenpfleger (maskulin) = nurse · geduldig = patient. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Krankenpfleger is the subject.
Akk Ich rufe den Krankenpfleger.
I call the nurse.
der Krankenpfleger (maskulin) = nurse · rufen = to call. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Krankenpfleger is the direct object.
Dat Ich danke dem Krankenpfleger.
I thank the nurse.
der Krankenpfleger (maskulin) = nurse · danken = to thank. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem). The verb "danken" always takes a Dativ object — Krankenpfleger is the Dativ object.
das Restaurant — restaurant
A French loanword — pronounced with a nasal ending, "resto-RANG". Plural adds -s: die Restaurants. "ins Restaurant gehen" = to go out to eat.
Nom Das Restaurant ist teuer.
The restaurant is expensive.
das Restaurant (neutrum) = restaurant · teuer = expensive. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Restaurant is the subject.
Akk Wir suchen ein Restaurant.
We are looking for a restaurant.
das Restaurant (neutrum) = restaurant · suchen = to look for. "Ein" because neutrum Akkusativ (ein → ein, no change). Restaurant is the direct object.
Dat Wir essen in dem Restaurant.
We eat in the restaurant.
das Restaurant (neutrum) = restaurant · essen = to eat · in = in. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in" (location = Dativ). Often "im Restaurant".
der Kollege — colleague (male)
A "weak" (n-) noun: it adds "-n" in every case except Nominativ singular — den Kollegen, dem Kollegen. Plural: die Kollegen. The female form is "die Kollegin".
Nom Der Kollege ist hilfsbereit.
The colleague is helpful.
der Kollege (maskulin, weak noun) = colleague · hilfsbereit = helpful. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Kollege is the subject; no "-n" here (Nominativ singular is the only form without it).
Akk Ich frage den Kollegen.
I ask the colleague.
der Kollege (maskulin, weak noun) = colleague · fragen = to ask. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den), and weak nouns add "-n": Kollege → Kollegen. It's the direct object.
Dat Ich helfe dem Kollegen.
I help the colleague.
der Kollege (maskulin, weak noun) = colleague · helfen = to help. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem), plus the weak-noun "-n": Kollegen. "helfen" always takes Dativ.
die Kollegin — colleague (female)
Female form of "der Kollege" — "-in" makes it feminine (always die), and unlike the male form it does NOT add "-n" in the cases. Plural: die Kolleginnen.
Nom Die Kollegin ist neu.
The colleague is new.
die Kollegin (feminin, -in rule) = colleague · neu = new. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Kollegin is the subject.
Akk Ich treffe die Kollegin.
I meet the colleague.
die Kollegin (feminin) = colleague · treffen = to meet. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Kollegin is the direct object.
Dat Ich arbeite mit der Kollegin.
I work with the colleague.
die Kollegin (feminin) = colleague · arbeiten = to work · mit = with. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit" (always Dativ).
die Firma — company / firm
An Italian-origin word: singular "die Firma", but plural is irregular — "die Firmen". "bei einer Firma arbeiten" = to work for a company.
Nom Die Firma ist groß.
The company is big.
die Firma (feminin) = company · groß = big. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Firma is the subject.
Akk Ich kenne die Firma.
I know the company.
die Firma (feminin) = company · kennen = to know. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Firma is the direct object.
Dat Ich arbeite bei der Firma Siemens.
I work at the company Siemens.
die Firma (feminin) = company · arbeiten = to work · bei = at/for. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "bei" (always Dativ). "bei der Firma" = at the company.
der Lehrer — teacher (male)
From the verb "lehren" (to teach). Plural: die Lehrer (same as singular, -er ending). The female form is "die Lehrerin". Your German course has a "Lehrer/in"!
Nom Der Lehrer erklärt gut.
The teacher explains well.
der Lehrer (maskulin) = teacher · erklären = to explain · gut = well. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Lehrer is the subject.
Akk Ich frage den Lehrer.
I ask the teacher.
der Lehrer (maskulin) = teacher · fragen = to ask. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Lehrer is the direct object.
Dat Ich danke dem Lehrer.
I thank the teacher.
der Lehrer (maskulin) = teacher · danken = to thank. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem). The verb "danken" always takes a Dativ object.
die Schule — school
"in die Schule gehen" = to go to school (direction, Akk); "in der Schule sein" = to be at school (location, Dat). Plural: die Schulen. A language school is a "Sprachschule".
Nom Die Schule beginnt um acht.
School starts at eight.
die Schule (feminin) = school · beginnen = to begin · um acht = at eight. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Schule is the subject.
Akk Die Kinder gehen in die Schule.
The children go to school.
die Schule (feminin) = school · gehen = to go · in = into. "Die" stays "die", but here it's Akkusativ because there is direction/movement (into the school). Direction = Akkusativ.
Dat Ich lerne Deutsch in der Schule.
I learn German at school.
die Schule (feminin) = school · lernen = to learn · in = in. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" (location = Dativ, no movement).
der Kurs — course
"der Deutschkurs" = the German course (that's this one!). Plural: die Kurse. "einen Kurs machen/besuchen" = to take a course.
Nom Der Kurs ist interessant.
The course is interesting.
der Kurs (maskulin) = course · interessant = interesting. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Kurs is the subject.
Akk Ich mache einen Kurs.
I'm taking a course.
der Kurs (maskulin) = course · machen = to do/take. "Einen" because maskulin Akkusativ (ein → einen). Kurs is the direct object.
Dat In dem Kurs sind zwölf Leute.
There are twelve people in the course.
der Kurs (maskulin) = course · in = in · zwölf = twelve. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" (location = Dativ). Often "im Kurs".
der Taxifahrer — taxi driver
"das Taxi" + "der Fahrer" (driver, from "fahren"). The last part sets the gender: maskulin. Plural: die Taxifahrer (same as singular). Female form: die Taxifahrerin.
Nom Der Taxifahrer kennt die Stadt.
The taxi driver knows the city.
der Taxifahrer (maskulin) = taxi driver · kennen = to know · die Stadt = city. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Taxifahrer is the subject.
Akk Ich frage den Taxifahrer.
I ask the taxi driver.
der Taxifahrer (maskulin) = taxi driver · fragen = to ask. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Taxifahrer is the direct object.
Dat Ich gebe dem Taxifahrer Trinkgeld.
I give the taxi driver a tip.
der Taxifahrer (maskulin) = taxi driver · geben = to give · das Trinkgeld = tip. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem). With "geben", the receiver is the Dativ (indirect) object.
das Taxi — taxi
Same word worldwide, but neuter in German: das Taxi. Plural adds -s: die Taxis. "ein Taxi nehmen" = to take a taxi; "mit dem Taxi fahren" = to go by taxi.
Nom Das Taxi ist gelb.
The taxi is yellow.
das Taxi (neutrum) = taxi · gelb = yellow. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Taxi is the subject.
Akk Ich nehme ein Taxi.
I take a taxi.
das Taxi (neutrum) = taxi · nehmen = to take. "Ein" because neutrum Akkusativ (ein → ein, no change). Taxi is the direct object.
Dat Ich fahre mit dem Taxi.
I go by taxi.
das Taxi (neutrum) = taxi · fahren = to go/drive · mit = with/by. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit" (always Dativ). Means of transport = mit + Dativ.
das Auto — car
Short for "das Automobil". Plural adds -s: die Autos. "mit dem Auto fahren" = to go by car. Germany is famous for its cars — and the autobahn (die Autobahn)!
Nom Das Auto ist schnell.
The car is fast.
das Auto (neutrum) = car · schnell = fast. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Auto is the subject.
Akk Ich kaufe ein Auto.
I'm buying a car.
das Auto (neutrum) = car · kaufen = to buy. "Ein" because neutrum Akkusativ (ein → ein, no change). Auto is the direct object.
Dat Wir fahren mit dem Auto.
We go by car.
das Auto (neutrum) = car · fahren = to go/drive · mit = with/by. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit" (always Dativ). Means of transport = mit + Dativ.
fahren — to travel / drive / go (by vehicle)
A strong verb with a vowel change in du/er: ich fahre, du fährst, er fährt (a → ä). Use "fahren" for going by any vehicle; use "gehen" only for going on foot.
Nom Der Bus fährt um neun.
The bus leaves at nine.
fahren = to go/drive · der Bus = bus (maskulin) · um neun = at nine. "Der Bus" is the subject (Nominativ); verb "fährt" (er form, a → ä).
Akk Ich fahre das Auto.
I drive the car.
fahren = to drive · das Auto = car (neutrum). "Das Auto" is the direct object → neutrum Akkusativ (das → das, no change). Here "fahren" is transitive (to drive something). "Ich fahre" (1st person).
Dat Ich fahre mit der Bahn nach Köln.
I travel by train to Cologne.
fahren = to travel · mit = with/by · die Bahn = train/rail · nach = to. "Der Bahn" is Dativ (die → der) after "mit" (always Dativ). Transport = mit + Dativ.
die Verkäuferin — saleswoman / shop assistant (female)
From "verkaufen" (to sell); the male form is "der Verkäufer". "-in" makes it feminine (die). Plural: die Verkäuferinnen. You'll deal with a Verkäufer/in in every shop.
Nom Die Verkäuferin ist freundlich.
The saleswoman is friendly.
die Verkäuferin (feminin, -in rule) = saleswoman · freundlich = friendly. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Verkäuferin is the subject.
Akk Ich frage die Verkäuferin.
I ask the saleswoman.
die Verkäuferin (feminin) = saleswoman · fragen = to ask. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Verkäuferin is the direct object.
Dat Ich gebe der Verkäuferin das Geld.
I give the saleswoman the money.
die Verkäuferin (feminin) = saleswoman · geben = to give · das Geld = money. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der). With "geben", the receiver is the Dativ (indirect) object.
der Abend — evening
"Guten Abend!" = "Good evening!" (greeting). "am Abend" = in the evening. Plural: die Abende. Related greeting when leaving: "Schönen Abend noch!"
Nom Der Abend ist schön.
The evening is nice.
der Abend (maskulin) = evening · schön = nice. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Abend is the subject.
Akk Ich genieße den Abend.
I enjoy the evening.
der Abend (maskulin) = evening · genießen = to enjoy. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Abend is the direct object.
Dat An dem Abend gehen wir ins Kino.
On that evening we go to the cinema.
der Abend (maskulin) = evening · an = on · ins Kino = to the cinema. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "an" (time-when = Dativ). Often "am Abend" = in the evening.
der Nachmittag — afternoon
"nach" (after) + "der Mittag" (noon) = der Nachmittag. The last part (Mittag) sets the gender: maskulin. "am Nachmittag" = in the afternoon. Plural: die Nachmittage.
Nom Der Nachmittag ist frei.
The afternoon is free.
der Nachmittag (maskulin, from der Mittag) = afternoon · frei = free. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Nachmittag is the subject.
Akk Ich habe den Nachmittag frei.
I have the afternoon off.
der Nachmittag (maskulin) = afternoon · freihaben = to have off. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den); this is an Akkusativ time expression. Nachmittag is the object.
Dat An dem Nachmittag trinke ich Kaffee.
In the afternoon I drink coffee.
der Nachmittag (maskulin) = afternoon · an = on/in · der Kaffee = coffee. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "an" (time-when = Dativ). Often "am Nachmittag".
der Moment — moment
"Moment mal!" or "Einen Moment, bitte!" = "One moment, please!" — very useful for asking someone to wait. "im Moment" = at the moment/right now. Plural: die Momente.
Nom Der Moment ist perfekt.
The moment is perfect.
der Moment (maskulin) = moment · perfekt = perfect. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Moment is the subject.
Akk Warte einen Moment!
Wait a moment!
der Moment (maskulin) = moment · warten = to wait. "Einen" because maskulin Akkusativ (ein → einen); this is an Akkusativ time expression (a duration). "Warte" is the imperative (du).
Dat In dem Moment klingelt das Telefon.
At that moment the phone rings.
der Moment (maskulin) = moment · in = in/at · klingeln = to ring. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in". Often "im Moment" = at the moment.
die Stunde — hour
"die Stunde" = an hour (60 min); it also means a lesson/class ("die Deutschstunde"). Don't confuse with "die Uhr" (clock / o'clock). Plural: die Stunden.
Nom Die Stunde ist lang.
The hour is long.
die Stunde (feminin) = hour · lang = long. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Stunde is the subject.
Akk Ich warte eine Stunde.
I wait for an hour.
die Stunde (feminin) = hour · warten = to wait. "Eine" because feminin Akkusativ (eine → eine, no change); durations are in the Akkusativ. Stunde is the object.
Dat Nach einer Stunde bin ich müde.
After an hour I'm tired.
die Stunde (feminin) = hour · nach = after · müde = tired. "Einer" because feminin Dativ (eine → einer) after "nach" (always Dativ).
der Tag — day
"Guten Tag!" = "Hello / Good day!" — the standard daytime greeting. "jeden Tag" = every day. Plural: die Tage. A memory aid: "Tag" is maskulin, like most times of day except "die Nacht".
Nom Der Tag ist schön.
The day is beautiful.
der Tag (maskulin) = day · schön = beautiful. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Tag is the subject.
Akk Ich arbeite den ganzen Tag.
I work the whole day.
der Tag (maskulin) = day · ganz = whole · arbeiten = to work. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den), and the adjective ends in -en (den ganzen Tag). Akkusativ time expression.
Dat An dem Tag habe ich Geburtstag.
On that day I have my birthday.
der Tag (maskulin) = day · an = on · der Geburtstag = birthday. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "an" (days use an + Dativ). Often "am Tag".
die Woche — week
"diese Woche" = this week; "nächste Woche" = next week. Plural: die Wochen. Related: "das Wochenende" (weekend), "der Wochentag" (weekday) — both below.
Nom Die Woche ist lang.
The week is long.
die Woche (feminin) = week · lang = long. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Woche is the subject.
Akk Ich habe eine Woche Urlaub.
I have one week of vacation.
die Woche (feminin) = week · der Urlaub = vacation · haben = to have. "Eine" because feminin Akkusativ (eine → eine, no change). Woche is the object (a duration).
Dat In der Woche arbeite ich viel.
During the week I work a lot.
die Woche (feminin) = week · in = in · viel = a lot. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" (time-when = Dativ). "in der Woche" = during the week/on weekdays.
das Wochenende — weekend
"die Woche" (week) + "das Ende" (end) = das Wochenende; the last part (Ende) sets it neuter. "am Wochenende" = on the weekend. "Schönes Wochenende!" = "Have a nice weekend!"
Nom Das Wochenende ist frei.
The weekend is free.
das Wochenende (neutrum, from das Ende) = weekend · frei = free. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Wochenende is the subject.
Akk Ich genieße das Wochenende.
I enjoy the weekend.
das Wochenende (neutrum) = weekend · genießen = to enjoy. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ (neutrum doesn't change). Wochenende is the direct object.
Dat An dem Wochenende besuche ich Freunde.
On the weekend I visit friends.
das Wochenende (neutrum) = weekend · an = on · besuchen = to visit. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "an" (time-when = Dativ). Usually shortened to "am Wochenende".
der Wochentag — weekday
"die Woche" + "der Tag" = der Wochentag; the last part (Tag) sets it maskulin. The Wochentage are Montag–Sonntag — all maskulin. "an einem Wochentag" = on a weekday.
Nom Der Wochentag heute ist Montag.
Today's weekday is Monday.
der Wochentag (maskulin, from der Tag) = weekday · heute = today · der Montag = Monday. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Wochentag is the subject.
Akk Ich mag jeden Wochentag.
I like every weekday.
der Wochentag (maskulin) = weekday · mögen = to like (ich mag) · jeden = every. "Jeden" because maskulin Akkusativ (jeder → jeden, like der → den). Wochentag is the direct object.
Dat An jedem Wochentag arbeite ich.
On every weekday I work.
der Wochentag (maskulin) = weekday · an = on · jedem = every. "Jedem" because maskulin Dativ (jeder → jedem, like der → dem) after "an" (days use an + Dativ).
das Jahr — year
"dieses Jahr" = this year; "nächstes Jahr" = next year. Plural: die Jahre. To say your age: "Ich bin dreißig Jahre alt" (I am thirty years old).
Nom Das Jahr ist fast vorbei.
The year is almost over.
das Jahr (neutrum) = year · fast = almost · vorbei = over/past. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Jahr is the subject.
Akk Ich lerne ein Jahr Deutsch.
I've been learning German for a year.
das Jahr (neutrum) = year · lernen = to learn. "Ein" because neutrum Akkusativ (ein → ein, no change); a duration takes the Akkusativ. Jahr is the object.
Dat In dem Jahr reise ich nach Berlin.
In that year I travel to Berlin.
das Jahr (neutrum) = year · in = in · reisen = to travel. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in" (time-when = Dativ). Often "im Jahr".
alt — old
Also used for age: "Wie alt bist du?" = "How old are you?". Opposite: "jung" (young) or "neu" (new, for things). As an attributive adjective, "alt" takes normal endings (see below).
Nom Der Mann ist alt.
The man is old.
alt = old · der Mann = man (maskulin) · sein = to be. Predicative use (after "ist"): the adjective has NO ending — just "alt". "Der Mann" is the Nominativ subject.
Akk Ich kaufe das alte Auto.
I'm buying the old car.
alt = old · das Auto = car (neutrum) · kaufen = to buy. Attributive use: after "das" (neutrum Akkusativ, das → das) the adjective takes "-e": "das alte Auto". It's the direct object.
Dat Ich wohne in dem alten Haus.
I live in the old house.
alt = old · das Haus = house (neutrum) · in = in. Neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in" (location); after "dem" the adjective takes "-en": "dem alten Haus". Ending change: -∅ (predicative) → -e (Akk) → -en (Dat).
wann — when (question word)
"Wann" asks about a point in time and never changes form. It's often used with prepositions plus Dativ: "Wann beginnt der Kurs?", "Seit wann wohnst du hier?" Don't confuse it with "wenn" (if/whenever), which sounds similar but is a conjunction.
Nom Wann ist der Termin?
When is the appointment?
wann = when · der Termin (maskulin) = appointment. "Der Termin" is maskulin Nominativ — the subject of "ist".
Akk Wann hast du den Kurs?
When do you have the course?
wann = when · haben = to have (du hast) · der Kurs (maskulin) = course. "Den Kurs" is maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) — the direct object of "haben".
Dat Wann gehst du zu dem Arzt?
When are you going to the doctor?
wann = when · gehen = to go · zu = to · der Arzt (maskulin) = doctor. "Dem Arzt" is maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "zu" (always Dativ). Often shortened to "zum Arzt".
bei — at / near / for (preposition, + Dativ)
"Bei" always takes the Dativ. For jobs, "bei" + employer means "for/at a company": "Ich arbeite bei Siemens." It also means "at someone's place" ("bei mir" = at my place) or "near" ("bei München" = near Munich).
Nom Die Firma ist groß.
The company is big.
die Firma (feminin) = company · groß = big. "Die Firma" is feminin Nominativ — the subject of "ist".
Akk Ich suche eine Firma.
I'm looking for a company.
suchen = to look for · eine Firma (feminin) = a company. "Eine Firma" is feminin Akkusativ (eine → eine, no change) — the direct object of "suchen".
Dat Ich arbeite bei der Firma.
I work for the company.
bei = at/for · arbeiten = to work · die Firma (feminin) = company. "Der Firma" is Dativ (die → der) after "bei" (always Dativ) — this shows the core use of "bei" for an employer.
von — from / by / of (preposition, + Dativ)
"Von" always takes the Dativ. It's the key word in "Was sind Sie von Beruf?" (What's your profession?). "Von" + dem contracts to "vom": "vom Arzt" = from the doctor.
Nom Der Beruf ist interessant.
The profession is interesting.
der Beruf (maskulin) = profession · interessant = interesting. "Der Beruf" is maskulin Nominativ — the subject of "ist".
Akk Ich lerne einen Beruf.
I'm learning a trade.
lernen = to learn · einen Beruf (maskulin) = a trade. "Einen Beruf" is maskulin Akkusativ (ein → einen) — the direct object of "lernen".
Dat Was sind Sie von Beruf?
What is your profession?
von = of/by · der Beruf (maskulin) = profession. "Beruf" after "von" is Dativ (no article needed in this fixed phrase, but the case is still Dativ because "von" always triggers it). This is the standard way to ask someone's job.
die Friseurin — hairdresser (female)
The female counterpart to "der Friseur" — the "-in" ending makes it feminine (always die). An older word for the same job is "die Friseuse". Plural: die Friseurinnen.
Nom Die Friseurin ist nett.
The hairdresser is nice.
die Friseurin (feminin, -in rule) = hairdresser · nett = nice. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Friseurin is the subject.
Akk Ich frage die Friseurin.
I ask the hairdresser.
die Friseurin (feminin) = hairdresser · fragen = to ask. "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Friseurin is the direct object.
Dat Ich habe einen Termin bei der Friseurin.
I have an appointment with the hairdresser.
die Friseurin (feminin) = hairdresser · der Termin = appointment · bei = at/with. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "bei" (always Dativ).
die Handwerkerin — craftswoman / handywoman
From "das Handwerk" (craft/trade) + "-in". Handwerker/Handwerkerinnen cover skilled trades like carpenters, electricians, and plumbers — a respected and well-paid career path in Germany. Plural: die Handwerkerinnen.
Nom Die Handwerkerin repariert das Fenster.
The craftswoman repairs the window.
die Handwerkerin (feminin, -in rule) = craftswoman · reparieren = to repair · das Fenster = window. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Handwerkerin is the subject.
Akk Wir brauchen eine Handwerkerin.
We need a craftswoman.
die Handwerkerin (feminin) = craftswoman · brauchen = to need. "Eine" because feminin Akkusativ (eine → eine, no change). Handwerkerin is the direct object.
Dat Ich spreche mit der Handwerkerin.
I speak with the craftswoman.
die Handwerkerin (feminin) = craftswoman · sprechen = to speak · mit = with (always Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
der Journalist — journalist
A weak (n-declension) noun: it adds "-en" in every case except Nominativ Singular — den Journalisten, dem Journalisten. The female form is "die Journalistin". Plural: die Journalisten.
Nom Der Journalist schreibt für die Zeitung.
The journalist writes for the newspaper.
der Journalist (maskulin) = journalist · schreiben = to write · die Zeitung = newspaper. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Journalist is the subject (no -en ending here).
Akk Ich kenne den Journalisten.
I know the journalist.
der Journalist (maskulin) = journalist · kennen = to know. "Den Journalisten" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) — Journalist is a weak noun and adds "-en". Journalisten is the direct object.
Dat Sie gibt dem Journalisten ein Interview.
She gives the journalist an interview.
der Journalist (maskulin) = journalist · geben = to give · das Interview = interview. "Dem Journalisten" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) — Journalist adds "-en" as a weak noun. The journalist is the indirect object receiving the interview.
die Mechanikerin — mechanic (female)
The female form of "der Mechaniker" — the "-in" ending makes it feminine (always die). Mechanikerinnen work on cars, machines, and engines. Plural: die Mechanikerinnen.
Nom Die Mechanikerin repariert das Auto.
The mechanic repairs the car.
die Mechanikerin (feminin, -in rule) = mechanic · reparieren = to repair · das Auto = car. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Mechanikerin is the subject.
Akk Ich rufe die Mechanikerin an.
I call the mechanic.
die Mechanikerin (feminin) = mechanic · anrufen = to call (separable: rufe … an). "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Mechanikerin is the direct object.
Dat Ich gebe der Mechanikerin den Schlüssel.
I give the mechanic the key.
die Mechanikerin (feminin) = mechanic · geben = to give · der Schlüssel = key. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) — the mechanic is the indirect object receiving the key.
der Polizist — police officer
A weak (n-declension) noun like "Journalist": it adds "-en" in Akkusativ and Dativ — den Polizisten, dem Polizisten. The female form is "die Polizistin". The institution is "die Polizei" (feminin, singular only).
Nom Der Polizist hilft der Frau.
The police officer helps the woman.
der Polizist (maskulin) = police officer · helfen = to help · die Frau = woman. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Polizist is the subject (no -en ending here).
Akk Wir fragen den Polizisten.
We ask the police officer.
der Polizist (maskulin) = police officer · fragen = to ask. "Den Polizisten" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) — Polizist is a weak noun and adds "-en". Polizisten is the direct object.
Dat Sie zeigt dem Polizisten den Ausweis.
She shows the police officer the ID.
der Polizist (maskulin) = police officer · zeigen = to show · der Ausweis = ID card. "Dem Polizisten" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) — Polizist adds "-en" as a weak noun. The officer is the indirect object.
die Studentin — student (female)
The female form of "der Student" — the "-in" ending makes it feminine (always die). A "Studentin" studies at a "Universität" or "Hochschule"; a school pupil is "die Schülerin" instead. Plural: die Studentinnen.
Nom Die Studentin studiert Medizin.
The student studies medicine.
die Studentin (feminin, -in rule) = student · studieren = to study · die Medizin = medicine. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Studentin is the subject.
Akk Der Professor fragt die Studentin.
The professor asks the student.
die Studentin (feminin) = student · fragen = to ask. "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Studentin is the direct object.
Dat Ich helfe der Studentin.
I help the student.
die Studentin (feminin) = student · helfen = to help. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der). "Helfen" always takes a Dativ object — Studentin is the Dativ object.
studieren — to study (at university)
A regular "-ieren" verb (never adds "ge-" in the past participle: studiert): ich studiere, du studierst, er studiert. Careful: "studieren" is only for university-level study; for school homework use "lernen".
Nom Der Student studiert fleißig.
The student studies diligently.
studieren = to study → studiert (er form) · der Student (maskulin) = student · fleißig = diligent. "Der Student" is the subject (Nominativ).
Akk Ich studiere Informatik.
I study computer science.
studieren = to study → studiere (ich form) · die Informatik (feminin) = computer science. "Informatik" is the Akkusativ object (used without an article as a subject name).
Dat Sie studiert an der Universität.
She studies at the university.
studieren = to study → studiert (sie form) · an = at · die Universität (feminin) = university. "Der Universität" is Dativ (die → der) after "an" (location = Dativ).
die Universität — university
Often shortened to "die Uni" in everyday speech. Words ending in "-tät" (borrowed from Latin/French "-té/-tas") are always feminine — a handy rule. Plural: die Universitäten.
Nom Die Universität ist berühmt.
The university is famous.
die Universität (feminin, -tät rule) = university · berühmt = famous. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Universität is the subject.
Akk Ich besuche die Universität.
I attend the university.
die Universität (feminin) = university · besuchen = to visit/attend. "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Universität is the direct object.
Dat Er studiert an der Universität.
He studies at the university.
studieren = to study · an = at. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "an" (location = Dativ). Often shortened to "an der Uni".
das Seminar — seminar
A "Seminar" at a German university is a small, interactive class (unlike a large lecture, "die Vorlesung"). Plural: die Seminare. "Ich habe vier Seminare pro Woche" is a typical student sentence.
Nom Das Seminar beginnt um 9 Uhr.
The seminar starts at 9 o'clock.
das Seminar (neutrum) = seminar · beginnen = to begin. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Seminar is the subject.
Akk Ich habe ein Seminar pro Woche.
I have one seminar per week.
das Seminar (neutrum) = seminar · haben = to have · pro Woche = per week. "Ein" because neutrum Akkusativ (ein → ein, no change). Seminar is the direct object.
Dat Sie spricht in dem Seminar.
She speaks in the seminar.
sprechen = to speak · in = in. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in" (location = Dativ). Often shortened to "im Seminar".