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Netzwerk 2: Appointments
Chapter 2 — appointments, personal information, weekdays, and adjectives.
Maskulin Feminin Neutrum Plural
der Termin — appointment
Germans take appointments seriously. Being late to a Termin — even by 5 minutes — is considered rude. When you arrive, say "Ich habe einen Termin um 10 Uhr" to check in.
Nom Der Termin ist morgen.
The appointment is tomorrow.
der Termin (maskulin) = appointment · morgen = tomorrow. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Termin is the subject.
Akk Ich habe den Termin am Montag.
I have the appointment on Monday.
der Termin (maskulin) = appointment · haben = to have · am Montag = on Monday. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Termin is the direct object of "haben".
Dat Wir beginnen mit dem Termin um 10 Uhr.
We start with the appointment at 10 o'clock.
der Termin (maskulin) = appointment · beginnen = to begin · um 10 Uhr = at 10 o'clock. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
morgen — tomorrow
Careful: "morgen" (lowercase) = tomorrow, but "der Morgen" (capital) = the morning. "Morgen früh" means "tomorrow morning." Because it is an adverb, it never changes form.
Nom Morgen beginnt der Kurs.
The course starts tomorrow.
morgen = tomorrow (adverb, never changes) · beginnen = to begin · der Kurs (maskulin) = course. "Der Kurs" is maskulin Nominativ — the subject. Putting "Morgen" first pushes the verb to position 2 (beginnt), then the subject follows.
Akk Morgen habe ich den ganzen Tag frei.
Tomorrow I have the whole day off.
morgen = tomorrow · haben = to have · der Tag (maskulin) = day · ganz = whole · frei = free/off. "Den ganzen Tag" is maskulin Akkusativ (der → den, adjective adds -en) — the direct object of "haben".
Dat Morgen fahre ich mit dem Zug.
Tomorrow I'm travelling by train.
morgen = tomorrow · fahren = to travel/go · der Zug (maskulin) = train · mit = with/by. "Dem Zug" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
nachts — at night
"Nachts" means "at night / during the night" as a general habit. It comes from "die Nacht" (night) + an old genitive -s ending. Related time adverbs: morgens (in the mornings), abends (in the evenings), tagsüber (during the day).
Nom Nachts ist die Straße ruhig.
At night the street is quiet.
nachts = at night (adverb) · die Straße (feminin) = street · ruhig = quiet. "Die Straße" is feminin Nominativ — the subject. The verb "ist" stays in position 2 after "Nachts".
Akk Nachts höre ich den Regen.
At night I hear the rain.
nachts = at night · hören = to hear · der Regen (maskulin) = rain. "Den Regen" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) — the direct object of "hören".
Dat Nachts schlafe ich mit dem Fenster offen.
At night I sleep with the window open.
nachts = at night · schlafen = to sleep · das Fenster (neutrum) = window · offen = open. "Dem Fenster" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit".
meistens — mostly / usually
"Meistens" describes what you do most of the time. It's a step above "oft" (often) but below "immer" (always). A handy frequency scale: immer > meistens > oft > manchmal > selten > nie.
Nom Meistens kommt der Chef früh.
The boss usually comes early.
meistens = mostly/usually · kommen = to come · der Chef (maskulin) = boss · früh = early. "Der Chef" is maskulin Nominativ — the subject. The verb "kommt" stays in position 2 after "Meistens".
Akk Ich trinke meistens den Kaffee schwarz.
I usually drink the coffee black.
meistens = usually · trinken = to drink · der Kaffee (maskulin) = coffee · schwarz = black. "Den Kaffee" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) — the direct object of "trinken".
Dat Meistens fahre ich mit dem Fahrrad.
I usually go by bike.
meistens = usually · fahren = to go/ride · das Fahrrad (neutrum) = bicycle · mit = by/with. "Dem Fahrrad" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit".
der Montag — Monday
All weekdays are maskulin (der). "Montag" comes from Mond (moon) — literally "moon day," just like English Monday. Use "am Montag" (= an dem Montag) to say "on Monday."
Nom Der Montag ist oft stressig.
Monday is often stressful.
der Montag (maskulin) = Monday · oft = often · stressig = stressful. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Montag is the subject.
Akk Ich mag den Montag nicht.
I don't like Monday.
der Montag (maskulin) = Monday · mögen = to like (ich mag) · nicht = not. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Montag is the direct object of "mögen".
Dat An dem Montag habe ich einen Termin.
On Monday I have an appointment.
der Montag (maskulin) = Monday · haben = to have · der Termin (maskulin) = appointment. "An dem Montag" (usually shortened to "am Montag") — maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "an" for a point in time. "Einen Termin" is maskulin Akkusativ, the object.
der Dienstag — Tuesday
"Dienstag" is linked to an old god of the assembly ("Thing"), similar to English Tuesday (Tiw's day). Remember the phrase "am Dienstag" for making plans.
Nom Der Dienstag ist frei.
Tuesday is free.
der Dienstag (maskulin) = Tuesday · frei = free/open. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Dienstag is the subject.
Akk Ich nehme den Dienstag für den Termin.
I'll take Tuesday for the appointment.
der Dienstag (maskulin) = Tuesday · nehmen = to take · für = for · der Termin (maskulin) = appointment. "Den Dienstag" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) — the object of "nehmen". "Für den Termin" is also Akkusativ after "für".
Dat An dem Dienstag beginnt der Kurs.
The course starts on Tuesday.
der Dienstag (maskulin) = Tuesday · beginnen = to begin · der Kurs (maskulin) = course. "An dem Dienstag" (= am Dienstag) — maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "an" for a day.
der Mittwoch — Wednesday
A logical name: "Mitt-woch" = middle (Mitte) of the week (Woche). It literally is the midpoint of the working week.
Nom Der Mittwoch ist die Mitte der Woche.
Wednesday is the middle of the week.
der Mittwoch (maskulin) = Wednesday · die Mitte (feminin) = middle · die Woche (feminin) = week. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Mittwoch is the subject. "der Woche" here is Genitiv (of the week).
Akk Ich finde den Mittwoch gut.
Wednesday works well for me.
der Mittwoch (maskulin) = Wednesday · finden = to find/think · gut = good. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Mittwoch is the direct object of "finden".
Dat An dem Mittwoch gehe ich zum Arzt.
On Wednesday I'm going to the doctor.
der Mittwoch (maskulin) = Wednesday · gehen = to go · zum Arzt = to the doctor (zu dem Arzt). "An dem Mittwoch" (= am Mittwoch) — maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "an" for a day.
der Donnerstag — Thursday
"Donner" = thunder — this is the day of the thunder god (Donar/Thor), exactly like English Thursday (Thor's day). Say "am Donnerstag" for "on Thursday."
Nom Der Donnerstag ist fast das Wochenende.
Thursday is almost the weekend.
der Donnerstag (maskulin) = Thursday · fast = almost · das Wochenende (neutrum) = weekend. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Donnerstag is the subject.
Akk Ich habe den Donnerstag frei.
I have Thursday off.
der Donnerstag (maskulin) = Thursday · haben = to have · frei = off/free. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Donnerstag is the direct object of "haben".
Dat An dem Donnerstag treffe ich die Freunde.
On Thursday I'm meeting the friends.
der Donnerstag (maskulin) = Thursday · treffen = to meet · die Freunde (plural) = friends. "An dem Donnerstag" (= am Donnerstag) — maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "an" for a day. "die Freunde" is plural Akkusativ, the object.
der Freitag — Friday
"Freitag" is named after the goddess Freya, like English Friday. Many German offices close early on Friday afternoon — a nice start to the weekend. "Am Freitag" = on Friday.
Nom Der Freitag ist toll.
Friday is great.
der Freitag (maskulin) = Friday · toll = great. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Freitag is the subject.
Akk Alle lieben den Freitag.
Everyone loves Friday.
der Freitag (maskulin) = Friday · lieben = to love · alle = everyone (plural, Nominativ subject). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Freitag is the direct object of "lieben".
Dat An dem Freitag beginnt das Wochenende.
The weekend starts on Friday.
der Freitag (maskulin) = Friday · beginnen = to begin · das Wochenende (neutrum) = weekend. "An dem Freitag" (= am Freitag) — maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "an" for a day.
der Samstag — Saturday
Southern Germany says "Samstag," while northern Germany often says "Sonnabend" for the same day. Saturday is the big shopping day, since shops are closed on Sundays.
Nom Der Samstag ist ein Einkaufstag.
Saturday is a shopping day.
der Samstag (maskulin) = Saturday · der Einkaufstag (maskulin) = shopping day. "Der Samstag" — maskulin Nominativ subject. "ein Einkaufstag" is also Nominativ (predicate noun after "ist").
Akk Ich nutze den Samstag für die Familie.
I use Saturday for the family.
der Samstag (maskulin) = Saturday · nutzen = to use · für = for · die Familie (feminin) = family. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Samstag is the object of "nutzen". "für die Familie" is Akkusativ after "für".
Dat An dem Samstag gehe ich auf den Markt.
On Saturday I go to the market.
der Samstag (maskulin) = Saturday · gehen = to go · der Markt (maskulin) = market. "An dem Samstag" (= am Samstag) — maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "an" for a day. "auf den Markt" is Akkusativ (movement toward).
der Sonntag — Sunday
"Sonn-tag" = sun day. In Germany, almost all shops are closed on Sundays by law (Ladenschlussgesetz), so plan your shopping ahead. Sunday is the classic day for a walk (Spaziergang) or coffee and cake.
Nom Der Sonntag ist ruhig.
Sunday is quiet.
der Sonntag (maskulin) = Sunday · ruhig = quiet/calm. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Sonntag is the subject.
Akk Ich liebe den Sonntag.
I love Sunday.
der Sonntag (maskulin) = Sunday · lieben = to love. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Sonntag is the direct object of "lieben".
Dat An dem Sonntag sind die Geschäfte zu.
On Sunday the shops are closed.
der Sonntag (maskulin) = Sunday · das Geschäft (neutrum), plural die Geschäfte = shops · zu = closed. "An dem Sonntag" (= am Sonntag) — maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "an" for a day.
der Name — name
"Der Name" is one of the few maskulin nouns with an -n ending in Akkusativ and Dativ (den Namen, dem Namen). You'll hear "Wie ist Ihr Name?" in every formal situation — at the doctor, at the bank, everywhere.
Nom Der Name ist sehr schön.
The name is very beautiful.
der Name (maskulin) = name · sehr = very · schön = beautiful. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Name is the subject.
Akk Ich schreibe den Namen auf das Formular.
I write the name on the form.
der Name (maskulin) = name · schreiben = to write · das Formular = the form · auf = on. "Den Namen" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) — Name adds -n as a weak noun. Namen is the direct object.
Dat Sie sucht nach dem Namen im Computer.
She searches for the name in the computer.
der Name (maskulin) = name · suchen nach = to search for · im = in dem (in the) · der Computer = computer. "Dem Namen" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "nach" — Name adds -n as a weak noun.
die Adresse — address
In German addresses, the street name comes first, then the house number: "Berliner Straße 12". The postal code (Postleitzahl) comes before the city: "10115 Berlin".
Nom Die Adresse ist neu.
The address is new.
die Adresse (feminin) = address · neu = new. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Adresse is the subject.
Akk Kannst du mir die Adresse geben?
Can you give me the address?
die Adresse (feminin) = address · können = can · geben = to give · mir = to me (Dativ). "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Adresse is the direct object.
Dat Was stimmt mit der Adresse nicht?
What is wrong with the address?
die Adresse (feminin) = address · stimmen = to be correct · nicht = not. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
die Nummer — (telephone) number
Germans often say phone numbers in pairs: 89 45 23 is "neunundachtzig fünfundvierzig dreiundzwanzig." When someone asks "Wie ist Ihre Nummer?", they usually mean your phone number (Telefonnummer).
Nom Die Nummer ist falsch.
The number is wrong.
die Nummer (feminin) = number · falsch = wrong/false. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Nummer is the subject.
Akk Er hat die Nummer nicht.
He doesn't have the number.
die Nummer (feminin) = number · haben = to have · nicht = not. "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Nummer is the direct object of "haben".
Dat Ich rufe dich unter der Nummer an.
I'll call you at this number.
die Nummer (feminin) = number · anrufen = to call (separable verb: rufe...an) · dich = you (Akkusativ) · unter = at/under. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "unter".
die E-Mail — email
"Die E-Mail" is feminin because "die Mail" / "die Post" (mail) is feminin. The plural is "die E-Mails." Note the German pronunciation is close to English: "ee-mail." Careful: "eine E-Mail" (the message) vs. "die E-Mail-Adresse" (the address).
Nom Die E-Mail ist wichtig.
The email is important.
die E-Mail (feminin) = email · wichtig = important. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. E-Mail is the subject.
Akk Ich schreibe die E-Mail heute.
I'm writing the email today.
die E-Mail (feminin) = email · schreiben = to write · heute = today. "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ (die → die). E-Mail is the direct object of "schreiben".
Dat Der Termin steht in der E-Mail.
The appointment is in the email.
die E-Mail (feminin) = email · der Termin (maskulin) = appointment · stehen = to stand/be written · in = in. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" (location, no movement).
die Handynummer — mobile number
A compound word: Handy (mobile phone) + Nummer (number). The gender always comes from the last part — here "die Nummer" — so it's "die Handynummer." German mobile numbers usually start with 015, 016, or 017.
Nom Die Handynummer ist neu.
The mobile number is new.
die Handynummer (feminin) = mobile number · neu = new. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Handynummer is the subject. Gender comes from "die Nummer".
Akk Hast du die Handynummer?
Do you have the mobile number?
die Handynummer (feminin) = mobile number · haben = to have (du hast). "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Handynummer is the direct object of "haben".
Dat Ich frage nach der Handynummer.
I ask for the mobile number.
die Handynummer (feminin) = mobile number · fragen nach = to ask for. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "nach" (always Dativ).
die Straße — street
The "ß" (Eszett) is unique to German. "Straße" is always spelled with ß, never "ss". Many street names in Germany tell local history — Kirchstraße (Church Street), Bahnhofstraße (Station Street). Abbreviated "Str." on forms.
Nom Die Straße ist sehr groß.
The street is very big.
die Straße (feminin) = street · sehr = very · groß = big. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Straße is the subject.
Akk Wir suchen die Straße.
We are looking for the street.
die Straße (feminin) = street · suchen = to search/look for · wir = we. "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Straße is the direct object of "suchen".
Dat Das Café ist in der Straße links.
The café is on the street to the left.
die Straße (feminin) = street · das Café (neutrum) = café · in = in/on · links = left/to the left. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" (location, no motion).
die Postleitzahl — postal code
Often abbreviated "PLZ." A German Postleitzahl has five digits and comes before the city name: "80331 München." The gender comes from "die Zahl" (number).
Nom Die Postleitzahl hat fünf Zahlen.
The postal code has five digits.
die Postleitzahl (feminin) = postal code · haben = to have · fünf = five · die Zahl (feminin), plural Zahlen = digit/number. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Postleitzahl is the subject.
Akk Ich schreibe die Postleitzahl auf den Brief.
I write the postal code on the letter.
die Postleitzahl (feminin) = postal code · schreiben = to write · der Brief (maskulin) = letter · auf = on. "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ. "auf den Brief" is Akkusativ (der → den) — movement onto the letter.
Dat Die Stadt steht nach der Postleitzahl.
The city comes after the postal code.
die Postleitzahl (feminin) = postal code · die Stadt (feminin) = city · stehen = to stand/be written · nach = after. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "nach".
der Wohnort — place of residence
A compound word: Wohn- (from "wohnen" = to live) + Ort (= place). You'll see this on every German form. "Wohnort: Berlin" — no article needed when filling in forms, but in sentences you use "der".
Nom Der Wohnort ist wichtig für das Formular.
The place of residence is important for the form.
der Wohnort (maskulin) = place of residence · wichtig = important · für = for · das Formular = the form. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Wohnort is the subject.
Akk Du musst den Wohnort schreiben.
You must write the place of residence.
der Wohnort (maskulin) = place of residence · müssen = must · schreiben = to write. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Wohnort is the direct object.
Dat Was weißt du von dem Wohnort?
What do you know about the place of residence?
der Wohnort (maskulin) = place of residence · wissen = to know · von = about/from. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "von".
der Schlüssel — key
Losing your Schlüssel in Germany is expensive — a locksmith (Schlüsseldienst) can cost 100-300 euros. Many Germans carry a Schlüsselbund (key ring) with several keys for the front door, apartment, mailbox, and basement.
Nom Der Schlüssel ist nicht hier.
The key is not here.
der Schlüssel (maskulin) = key · nicht = not · hier = here. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Schlüssel is the subject.
Akk Ich suche den Schlüssel.
I'm looking for the key.
der Schlüssel (maskulin) = key · suchen = to search/look for. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Schlüssel is the direct object of "suchen".
Dat Was machst du mit dem Schlüssel?
What are you doing with the key?
der Schlüssel (maskulin) = key · machen = to do/make · mit = with. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
das Wörterbuch — dictionary
Another compound word: Wörter (words) + Buch (book). The plural is "Wörterbücher" — the umlaut on "ü" is typical for Buch → Bücher. The site "Leo" (dict.leo.org) is the most popular online Wörterbuch in Germany.
Nom Das Wörterbuch ist toll.
The dictionary is great.
das Wörterbuch (neutrum) = dictionary · toll = great. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Wörterbuch is the subject.
Akk Sie braucht das Wörterbuch für den Kurs.
She needs the dictionary for the course.
das Wörterbuch (neutrum) = dictionary · brauchen = to need · für = for · der Kurs = the course (den Kurs = maskulin Akkusativ). "Das" stays "das" in neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Wörterbuch is the direct object.
Dat Das Wort steht in dem Wörterbuch.
The word is in the dictionary.
das Wörterbuch (neutrum) = dictionary · das Wort (neutrum) = word · stehen = to stand/be located · in = in. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in" (location).
das Zimmer — room
You'll see this in many compounds: Schlafzimmer (bedroom), Badezimmer (bathroom), Wohnzimmer (living room), Klassenzimmer (classroom). When booking a hotel, you ask for "ein Zimmer". The plural is the same: die Zimmer.
Nom Das Zimmer ist klein.
The room is small.
das Zimmer (neutrum) = room · klein = small. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Zimmer is the subject.
Akk Wir haben das Zimmer bis Sonntag.
We have the room until Sunday.
das Zimmer (neutrum) = room · haben = to have · bis = until · Sonntag = Sunday. "Das" stays "das" in neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Zimmer is the direct object of "haben".
Dat Der Schlüssel ist in dem Zimmer.
The key is in the room.
das Zimmer (neutrum) = room · der Schlüssel (maskulin) = key · in = in. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in" (location, no movement).
die Tasche — bag
Tasche can mean bag, pocket, or purse depending on context. "Handtasche" is a handbag, "Hosentasche" is a trouser pocket. Since 2022, plastic bags (Plastiktüten) are banned in German shops — bring your own Tasche!
Nom Die Tasche ist neu.
The bag is new.
die Tasche (feminin) = bag · neu = new. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Tasche is the subject.
Akk Er sucht die Tasche im Zimmer.
He is looking for the bag in the room.
die Tasche (feminin) = bag · suchen = to search/look for · im = in dem (in the) · das Zimmer = room. "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Tasche is the direct object.
Dat Der Schlüssel ist in der Tasche.
The key is in the bag.
die Tasche (feminin) = bag · der Schlüssel (maskulin) = key · in = in. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" (location).
der Geldbeutel — wallet
Literally "money bag" (Geld = money + Beutel = pouch). This word is common in southern Germany; in the north people often say "das Portemonnaie" or "die Geldbörse." Germany is still a cash-heavy country, so your Geldbeutel needs real coins and bills.
Nom Der Geldbeutel ist in der Tasche.
The wallet is in the bag.
der Geldbeutel (maskulin) = wallet · die Tasche (feminin) = bag · in = in. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Geldbeutel is the subject. "Der Tasche" = feminin Dativ after "in".
Akk Hast du den Geldbeutel?
Do you have the wallet?
der Geldbeutel (maskulin) = wallet · haben = to have. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Geldbeutel is the direct object of "haben".
Dat Das Geld ist in dem Geldbeutel.
The money is in the wallet.
das Geld (neutrum) = money · der Geldbeutel (maskulin) = wallet · in = in. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" (location).
das Handy — mobile phone
"Handy" looks English but is actually a German invention — English speakers say "mobile" or "cell phone." This is a classic "false friend." The word probably comes from the "Handie-Talkie" used by Motorola in the 1940s.
Nom Das Handy ist neu.
The mobile phone is new.
das Handy (neutrum) = mobile phone · neu = new. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Handy is the subject.
Akk Ich suche das Handy seit einer Stunde.
I've been looking for the mobile phone for an hour.
das Handy (neutrum) = mobile phone · suchen = to search/look for · seit = since/for (time) · eine Stunde = one hour (einer Stunde = feminin Dativ after "seit"). "Das" stays "das" in neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Handy is the direct object.
Dat Die Nummer ist auf dem Handy.
The number is on the mobile phone.
das Handy (neutrum) = mobile phone · die Nummer (feminin) = number · auf = on. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "auf" (location).
der Kugelschreiber — pen (ballpoint)
Literally "little-ball writer" (Kugel = ball + schreiben = to write) — because of the ball in the tip. Germans often shorten it to "der Kuli." The plural stays the same: die Kugelschreiber.
Nom Der Kugelschreiber ist blau.
The pen is blue.
der Kugelschreiber (maskulin) = pen · blau = blue. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Kugelschreiber is the subject.
Akk Ich suche den Kugelschreiber.
I'm looking for the pen.
der Kugelschreiber (maskulin) = pen · suchen = to search/look for. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Kugelschreiber is the direct object of "suchen".
Dat Ich schreibe den Namen mit dem Kugelschreiber.
I write the name with the pen.
der Kugelschreiber (maskulin) = pen · schreiben = to write · der Name (maskulin) = name · mit = with. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit". "den Namen" is maskulin Akkusativ (weak noun adds -n), the object.
haben — to have
"Haben" is one of the most important verbs in German. It's irregular: ich habe, du hast, er/sie hat, wir haben, ihr habt, sie haben. It's also the helper verb for the past tense (Perfekt): "Ich habe gesucht" = I searched.
Nom Du hast einen Termin am Mittwoch.
You have an appointment on Wednesday.
haben = to have (du hast) · der Termin (maskulin) = appointment · am Mittwoch = on Wednesday. "Einen" because maskulin Akkusativ (ein → einen). "Du" is the subject (Nominativ).
Akk Wir haben das Zimmer bis Sonntag.
We have the room until Sunday.
haben = to have (wir haben) · das Zimmer (neutrum) = room · bis = until · Sonntag = Sunday. "Das" stays "das" in neutrum Akkusativ. Zimmer is the direct object.
Dat Sie hat nichts in dem Geldbeutel.
She has nothing in the wallet.
haben = to have (sie hat) · nichts = nothing · der Geldbeutel (maskulin) = wallet · in = in. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" (location).
passen — to fit / to suit
A very useful verb for making plans: "Passt dir der Termin?" = Does the appointment suit you? Note that "passen" takes a Dativ person — "das passt mir" (that suits me), never "das passt mich." It's a regular verb: ich passe, du passt, er passt.
Nom Der Montag passt gut.
Monday works well.
passen = to fit/suit (er passt) · der Montag (maskulin) = Monday · gut = well. "Der Montag" is maskulin Nominativ — the subject that does the "fitting".
Akk Ich habe nur den Freitag frei — passt das?
I only have Friday off — does that work?
passen = to suit (passt das?) · haben = to have · der Freitag (maskulin) = Friday · nur = only · frei = off/free. "Den Freitag" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) — the object of "haben". "das" refers back to the plan.
Dat Der neue Termin passt dem Chef nicht.
The new appointment doesn't suit the boss.
passen = to suit (passt) · der Termin (maskulin) = appointment · neu = new · der Chef (maskulin) = boss. "Dem Chef" because "passen" takes a Dativ person (der → dem) — the boss is who it must suit. "Der neue Termin" is the Nominativ subject.
suchen — to search / to look for
"Suchen" takes a direct object in Akkusativ — no preposition needed. In English you "search FOR something," but in German you just "suchen etwas." (With "nach", "suchen nach" takes Dativ.) Regular verb: ich suche, du suchst, er sucht.
Nom Wer sucht den Schlüssel?
Who is looking for the key?
suchen = to search (er/sie/wer sucht) · der Schlüssel (maskulin) = key · wer = who (Nominativ). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). "Wer" is the subject.
Akk Ich suche die E-Mail von Dienstag.
I'm looking for the email from Tuesday.
suchen = to search (ich suche) · die E-Mail (feminin) = email · von = from · Dienstag = Tuesday. "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ. E-Mail is the direct object.
Dat Er sucht nach der Adresse im Internet.
He is searching for the address on the internet.
suchen nach = to search for · die Adresse (feminin) = address · im Internet = on the internet. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "nach". With "nach," suchen takes Dativ.
warten — to wait
"Warten" on its own means "to wait." To say "wait FOR", use "warten auf" + Akkusativ: "Ich warte auf den Bus." Regular verb, but with an extra -e for easier pronunciation: ich warte, du wartest, er wartet.
Nom Der Mann wartet hier.
The man is waiting here.
warten = to wait (er wartet) · der Mann (maskulin) = man · hier = here. "Der Mann" is maskulin Nominativ — the subject doing the waiting.
Akk Ich warte auf den Bus.
I'm waiting for the bus.
warten auf = to wait for · der Bus (maskulin) = bus. "Den Bus" because "auf" here takes Akkusativ with "warten" (der → den). The bus is what I'm waiting for.
Dat Sie wartet an der Tür.
She is waiting at the door.
warten = to wait (sie wartet) · die Tür (feminin) = door · an = at. "Der Tür" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "an" for a location (no movement).
groß — big / tall
"Groß" describes size (big) and height (tall). For people it means tall: "Er ist groß" = He is tall. Watch the adjective ending: it stays plain after "ist" (predicative), but adds -en in Akkusativ and Dativ after der/den/dem.
Nom Das Zimmer ist groß.
The room is big.
groß = big · das Zimmer (neutrum) = room. Predicative use (after "ist") — the adjective has NO ending: just "groß". "Das Zimmer" is neutrum Nominativ, the subject.
Akk Ich kaufe den großen Tisch.
I'm buying the big table.
groß → großen · kaufen = to buy · der Tisch (maskulin) = table. "Den großen Tisch" — maskulin Akkusativ: der → den, and the adjective now takes the ending -en (großen). Tisch is the direct object.
Dat Er wohnt in dem großen Haus.
He lives in the big house.
groß → großen · wohnen = to live · das Haus (neutrum) = house · in = in. "Dem großen Haus" — neutrum Dativ: das → dem, and the adjective again takes -en (großen) after "in" (location).
lustig — funny
"Lustig" means funny or cheerful — from "die Lust" (desire/fun). A "lustiger Abend" is a fun evening. Don't confuse it with "komisch," which can mean funny OR strange/odd.
Nom Der Film ist lustig.
The film is funny.
lustig = funny · der Film (maskulin) = film. Predicative use (after "ist") — no ending: just "lustig". "Der Film" is maskulin Nominativ, the subject.
Akk Wir haben einen lustigen Abend.
We are having a fun evening.
lustig → lustigen · haben = to have · der Abend (maskulin) = evening. "Einen lustigen Abend" — maskulin Akkusativ: ein → einen, and the adjective takes -en (lustigen). Abend is the direct object.
Dat Ich war auf einer lustigen Party.
I was at a fun party.
lustig → lustigen · sein = to be (war = was) · die Party (feminin) = party · auf = at. "Einer lustigen Party" — feminin Dativ: eine → einer, and the adjective takes -en (lustigen) after "auf" (location).
neu — new
"Neu" is a short, super-common adjective. Predicatively it stays "neu" (das Handy ist neu), but as an attribute it gains endings (der neue, den neuen, dem neuen). "Was gibt's Neues?" = What's new?
Nom Das Handy ist neu.
The mobile phone is new.
neu = new · das Handy (neutrum) = mobile phone. Predicative use (after "ist") — no ending: just "neu". "Das Handy" is neutrum Nominativ, the subject.
Akk Ich kaufe den neuen Kugelschreiber.
I'm buying the new pen.
neu → neuen · kaufen = to buy · der Kugelschreiber (maskulin) = pen. "Den neuen Kugelschreiber" — maskulin Akkusativ: der → den, adjective takes -en (neuen). Kugelschreiber is the direct object.
Dat Sie wohnt in der neuen Straße.
She lives on the new street.
neu → neuen · wohnen = to live · die Straße (feminin) = street · in = in/on. "Der neuen Straße" — feminin Dativ: die → der, adjective takes -en (neuen) after "in" (location).
toll — great
"Toll" is an everyday word for great/fantastic — "Das ist toll!" You'll hear it constantly. Fun fact: centuries ago "toll" meant "crazy/mad," but today it's purely positive.
Nom Die Idee ist toll.
The idea is great.
toll = great · die Idee (feminin) = idea. Predicative use (after "ist") — no ending: just "toll". "Die Idee" is feminin Nominativ, the subject.
Akk Ich kenne einen tollen Film.
I know a great film.
toll → tollen · kennen = to know · der Film (maskulin) = film. "Einen tollen Film" — maskulin Akkusativ: ein → einen, adjective takes -en (tollen). Film is the direct object.
Dat Ich war bei einem tollen Konzert.
I was at a great concert.
toll → tollen · sein = to be (war = was) · das Konzert (neutrum) = concert · bei = at. "Einem tollen Konzert" — neutrum Dativ: ein → einem, adjective takes -en (tollen) after "bei" (always Dativ).
nett — nice / kind
"Nett" describes friendly, pleasant people: "Sie ist sehr nett." A polite closing phrase is "Nett, Sie kennenzulernen" (Nice to meet you). Be careful — calling something merely "nett" can sound lukewarm, like "just okay."
Nom Der Mann ist nett.
The man is nice.
nett = nice · der Mann (maskulin) = man. Predicative use (after "ist") — no ending: just "nett". "Der Mann" is maskulin Nominativ, the subject.
Akk Ich kenne einen netten Lehrer.
I know a nice teacher.
nett → netten · kennen = to know · der Lehrer (maskulin) = teacher. "Einen netten Lehrer" — maskulin Akkusativ: ein → einen, adjective takes -en (netten). Lehrer is the direct object.
Dat Ich spreche mit der netten Frau.
I'm talking to the nice woman.
nett → netten · sprechen = to speak · die Frau (feminin) = woman · mit = with. "Der netten Frau" — feminin Dativ: die → der, adjective takes -en (netten) after "mit".
interessant — interesting
An easy near-cognate to English "interesting." Stress the last syllable: in-teres-SANT. From it comes the noun "das Interesse" (interest) and the phrase "Ich interessiere mich für..." (I'm interested in...).
Nom Das Buch ist interessant.
The book is interesting.
interessant = interesting · das Buch (neutrum) = book. Predicative use (after "ist") — no ending: just "interessant". "Das Buch" is neutrum Nominativ, the subject.
Akk Ich lese einen interessanten Text.
I'm reading an interesting text.
interessant → interessanten · lesen = to read · der Text (maskulin) = text. "Einen interessanten Text" — maskulin Akkusativ: ein → einen, adjective takes -en (interessanten). Text is the direct object.
Dat Wir sprechen von einem interessanten Thema.
We are talking about an interesting topic.
interessant → interessanten · sprechen von = to talk about · das Thema (neutrum) = topic. "Einem interessanten Thema" — neutrum Dativ: ein → einem, adjective takes -en (interessanten) after "von".
klein — small
"Klein" is the opposite of "groß." For people it also means "short." A handy diminutive pattern: "das Häuschen" (little house), "das Kätzchen" (kitten). Predicatively it's plain "klein"; as an attribute it takes endings.
Nom Das Zimmer ist klein.
The room is small.
klein = small · das Zimmer (neutrum) = room. Predicative use (after "ist") — no ending: just "klein". "Das Zimmer" is neutrum Nominativ, the subject.
Akk Ich suche den kleinen Schlüssel.
I'm looking for the small key.
klein → kleinen · suchen = to look for · der Schlüssel (maskulin) = key. "Den kleinen Schlüssel" — maskulin Akkusativ: der → den, adjective takes -en (kleinen). Schlüssel is the direct object.
Dat Das Kind spielt in dem kleinen Zimmer.
The child is playing in the small room.
klein → kleinen · das Kind (neutrum) = child · spielen = to play · das Zimmer (neutrum) = room · in = in. "Dem kleinen Zimmer" — neutrum Dativ: das → dem, adjective takes -en (kleinen) after "in" (location).
noch — still
"Noch" means an action or state is continuing. "Noch nicht" = not yet, and "noch einmal" = once more/again. It never changes form since it's an adverb.
Nom Noch ist der Kurs nicht voll.
The course is still not full.
noch = still (adverb, never changes) · der Kurs (maskulin) = course · voll = full. "Der Kurs" is maskulin Nominativ — the subject. Putting "Noch" first pushes the verb to position 2 (ist).
Akk Ich brauche noch einen Kugelschreiber.
I still need a pen.
noch = still · brauchen = to need · der Kugelschreiber (maskulin) = pen. "Einen Kugelschreiber" is maskulin Akkusativ (ein → einen) — the direct object of "brauchen".
Dat Noch wohne ich bei der Familie.
I'm still living with the family.
noch = still · wohnen = to live · bei = at/with (always Dativ) · die Familie (feminin) = family. "Der Familie" is Dativ (die → der) after "bei".
die Information — information
Nouns ending in "-ion" are always feminine (die) — another useful rule alongside "-ung" and "-heit/-keit". Plural: die Informationen. On forms you'll see "Informationen zur Person" (personal information).
Nom Die Information ist wichtig.
The information is important.
die Information (feminin, -ion rule) = information · wichtig = important. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Information is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche die Information.
I need the information.
die Information (feminin) = information · brauchen = to need. "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Information is the direct object.
Dat Ich frage nach der Information.
I ask for the information.
die Information (feminin) = information · fragen nach = to ask for (always Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "nach".
der Familienname — family name / surname
A weak noun like "der Name": it adds "-n" in Akkusativ and Dativ (den Familiennamen, dem Familiennamen). On German forms it appears right after "Vorname". Plural: die Familiennamen.
Nom Der Familienname steht im Formular.
The surname is on the form.
der Familienname (maskulin) = surname · stehen = to stand/be written · das Formular = form. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Familienname is the subject (no -n ending here).
Akk Bitte schreiben Sie den Familiennamen.
Please write the surname.
der Familienname (maskulin) = surname · schreiben = to write · bitte = please. "Den Familiennamen" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) — Familienname adds "-n" as a weak noun.
Dat Was steht vor dem Familiennamen?
What comes before the surname?
der Familienname (maskulin) = surname · stehen = to stand/come · vor = before/in front of. "Dem Familiennamen" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) — Familienname adds "-n" as a weak noun. The Vorname comes before it.
die Hausnummer — house number
A compound: Haus (house) + Nummer (number), gender from "die Nummer". On a German address, it comes right after the street name: "Berliner Straße 12". Plural: die Hausnummern.
Nom Die Hausnummer ist zwölf.
The house number is twelve.
die Hausnummer (feminin) = house number · zwölf = twelve. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Hausnummer is the subject. Gender comes from "die Nummer".
Akk Ich schreibe die Hausnummer auf.
I write down the house number.
die Hausnummer (feminin) = house number · aufschreiben = to write down (separable: schreibe … auf). "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Hausnummer is the direct object.
Dat Ich frage nach der Hausnummer.
I ask for the house number.
die Hausnummer (feminin) = house number · fragen nach = to ask for (always Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "nach".
das Geburtsdatum — date of birth
A compound: Geburt (birth) + Datum (date). "Datum" is Latin-origin and neuter, so the compound is neuter too. Plural: die Geburtsdaten (Datum → Daten, an irregular plural).
Nom Das Geburtsdatum fehlt.
The date of birth is missing.
das Geburtsdatum (neutrum) = date of birth · fehlen = to be missing. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Geburtsdatum is the subject.
Akk Bitte geben Sie das Geburtsdatum an.
Please state the date of birth.
das Geburtsdatum (neutrum) = date of birth · angeben = to state/indicate (separable: geben … an). "Das" stays "das" in neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Geburtsdatum is the direct object.
Dat Neben dem Geburtsdatum steht der Geburtsort.
Next to the date of birth is the place of birth.
das Geburtsdatum (neutrum) = date of birth · neben = next to · der Geburtsort = place of birth. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "neben" (location = Dativ).
der Geburtsort — place of birth
A compound: Geburt (birth) + Ort (place). Gender comes from "der Ort" (maskulin). Don't confuse with "der Wohnort" (place of residence) — a form asks for both separately. Plural: die Geburtsorte.
Nom Der Geburtsort ist München.
The place of birth is Munich.
der Geburtsort (maskulin) = place of birth · München = Munich. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Geburtsort is the subject.
Akk Ich nenne den Geburtsort.
I name the place of birth.
der Geburtsort (maskulin) = place of birth · nennen = to name/state. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Geburtsort is the direct object.
Dat Was steht neben dem Geburtsort?
What is next to the place of birth?
der Geburtsort (maskulin) = place of birth · neben = next to. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "neben" (location = Dativ).
männlich — male
From "der Mann" (man) + "-lich". On German forms this is one of the two options under "Geschlecht" (gender/sex), alongside "weiblich". As a predicate adjective it never changes form.
Nom Der Vorname ist männlich.
The first name is male.
männlich = male · der Vorname (maskulin) = first name. "Der Vorname" is maskulin Nominativ — the subject of "ist … männlich".
Akk Ich kreuze männlich für den Vornamen an.
I tick "male" for the first name.
männlich = male · ankreuzen = to tick/check (separable: kreuze … an) · für = for (Akkusativ) · der Vorname (maskulin) = first name. "Den Vornamen" is maskulin Akkusativ (der → den, weak noun adds -n) after "für".
Dat Neben dem Geschlecht steht männlich oder weiblich.
Next to the gender it says male or female.
männlich = male · das Geschlecht (neutrum) = gender · neben = next to (always Dativ for location). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "neben".
weiblich — female
From "das Weib" (an old/formal word for woman) + "-lich". Paired with "männlich" on German forms under "Geschlecht" (gender/sex). As a predicate adjective it never changes form.
Nom Der Vorname ist weiblich.
The first name is female.
weiblich = female · der Vorname (maskulin) = first name. "Der Vorname" is maskulin Nominativ — the subject of "ist … weiblich".
Akk Ich kreuze weiblich für den Vornamen an.
I tick "female" for the first name.
weiblich = female · ankreuzen = to tick/check (separable: kreuze … an) · für = for (Akkusativ) · der Vorname (maskulin) = first name. "Den Vornamen" is maskulin Akkusativ (der → den, weak noun adds -n) after "für".
Dat Neben dem Geschlecht steht männlich oder weiblich.
Next to the gender it says male or female.
weiblich = female · das Geschlecht (neutrum) = gender · neben = next to (always Dativ for location). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "neben".
das Formular — form (document)
You'll fill out countless Formulare in Germany — at the Bürgeramt, bank, or doctor's office. Plural: die Formulare. "ein Formular ausfüllen" = to fill out a form.
Nom Das Formular ist lang.
The form is long.
das Formular (neutrum) = form · lang = long. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Formular is the subject.
Akk Ich fülle das Formular aus.
I fill out the form.
das Formular (neutrum) = form · ausfüllen = to fill out (separable: fülle … aus). "Das" stays "das" in neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Formular is the direct object.
Dat Der Name steht auf dem Formular.
The name is on the form.
das Formular (neutrum) = form · stehen = to stand/be written · auf = on. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "auf" (location = Dativ).
ja — yes
The simplest affirmative answer, but Germans also use "doch" instead of "ja" to contradict a negative question: "Kommst du nicht?" — "Doch!" (Yes, I am). "Ja" never changes form.
Nom Ja, der Termin passt.
Yes, the appointment works.
ja = yes · der Termin (maskulin) = appointment · passen = to suit/fit. "Der Termin" is maskulin Nominativ — the subject of "passt".
Akk Ja, ich habe den Schlüssel.
Yes, I have the key.
ja = yes · haben = to have · der Schlüssel (maskulin) = key. "Den Schlüssel" is maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) — the direct object of "haben".
Dat Ja, das passt der Familie gut.
Yes, that suits the family well.
ja = yes · passen = to suit (always takes a Dativ person) · die Familie (feminin) = family. "Der Familie" is feminin Dativ (die → der) — "passen" always takes a Dativ object.
nein — no
The basic negative answer to a yes/no question. Don't confuse "nein" (no, the answer) with "kein/keine" (no/not any, the negating article) — "Nein, ich habe kein Auto" uses both correctly. "Nein" never changes form.
Nom Nein, der Termin passt nicht.
No, the appointment doesn't work.
nein = no · der Termin (maskulin) = appointment · passen = to suit/fit. "Der Termin" is maskulin Nominativ — the subject of "passt nicht".
Akk Nein, ich habe den Schlüssel nicht.
No, I don't have the key.
nein = no · haben = to have · der Schlüssel (maskulin) = key. "Den Schlüssel" is maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) — the direct object of "haben".
Dat Nein, das passt der Familie nicht.
No, that doesn't suit the family.
nein = no · passen = to suit (always takes a Dativ person) · die Familie (feminin) = family. "Der Familie" is feminin Dativ (die → der) — "passen" always takes a Dativ object.
die Notiz — note / memo
"Notizen machen" = to take notes — a phrase you'll hear constantly in German class. Related word: "das Notizbuch" (notebook). Plural: die Notizen.
Nom Die Notiz ist kurz.
The note is short.
die Notiz (feminin) = note · kurz = short. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Notiz is the subject.
Akk Ich mache eine Notiz.
I'm making a note.
die Notiz (feminin) = note · machen = to make. "Eine" because feminin Akkusativ (eine → eine, no change). Notiz is the direct object. "Notizen machen" is a fixed phrase.
Dat Der Termin steht in der Notiz.
The appointment is in the note.
der Termin = appointment · stehen = to stand/be written · in = in. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" (location = Dativ).
das Beispiel — example
"Zum Beispiel" (z.B.) = "for example" — one of the most common abbreviations in German writing. Plural: die Beispiele.
Nom Das Beispiel ist klar.
The example is clear.
das Beispiel (neutrum) = example · klar = clear. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Beispiel is the subject.
Akk Ich gebe ein Beispiel.
I give an example.
das Beispiel (neutrum) = example · geben = to give. "Ein" because neutrum Akkusativ (ein → ein, no change). Beispiel is the direct object.
Dat Wir beginnen mit einem Beispiel.
We start with an example.
beginnen = to begin · mit = with (always Dativ). "Einem" because neutrum Dativ (ein → einem) after "mit". "Zum Beispiel" (= zu + dem Beispiel) is the classic fixed phrase.
alle — all / everyone
"Alle" is a plural indefinite pronoun/determiner — it takes the same endings as "die" in front of a plural noun (alle, aller, allen). Used alone it means "everyone": "Alle sind da" = Everyone is here.
Nom Alle sind da.
Everyone is here.
alle = everyone/all (Nominativ plural) · da sein = to be there/present. "Alle" is the plural subject of "sind"; note the plural verb form.
Akk Ich frage alle Studenten.
I ask all the students.
alle = all (Akkusativ plural, no change from Nominativ) · fragen = to ask · der Student, plural die Studenten. "Alle Studenten" is the plural direct object of "fragen".
Dat Ich helfe allen Studenten.
I help all the students.
allen = to all (Dativ plural of "alle", adds -n) · helfen = to help (always takes Dativ) · der Student, plural die Studenten (also adds -n in Dativ plural: Studenten). "Allen Studenten" is the Dativ object of "helfen".
hier — here
A basic location adverb that never changes form. "Hier, bitte" (Here you go) is what you say when handing something to someone. Compare "da" (there/that) and "dort" (over there, farther away).
Nom Hier ist der Schlüssel.
Here is the key.
hier = here · der Schlüssel (maskulin) = key. "Der Schlüssel" is maskulin Nominativ — the subject of "ist". Putting "hier" first pushes the verb to position 2.
Akk Hier haben Sie das Formular.
Here you have the form.
hier = here · haben = to have · das Formular (neutrum) = form. "Das Formular" is neutrum Akkusativ (das → das, no change) — the direct object of "haben".
Dat Hier wohne ich mit der Familie.
Here I live with the family.
hier = here · wohnen = to live · mit = with (always Dativ) · die Familie (feminin) = family. "Der Familie" is Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
gern — gladly (to like doing something)
"Gern" placed after a verb means you like doing that activity: "Ich schwimme gern" = I like swimming (literally "I swim gladly"). The comparative/superlative "lieber/am liebsten" express stronger preferences.
Nom Die Studentin lernt gern.
The student likes to study.
gern = gladly · die Studentin (feminin) = student · lernen = to learn/study. "Die Studentin" is feminin Nominativ — the subject of "lernt gern".
Akk Ich lese gern das Buch.
I like reading the book.
gern = gladly · lesen = to read · das Buch (neutrum) = book. "Das Buch" is neutrum Akkusativ (das → das, no change) — the direct object of "lese".
Dat Ich helfe gern der Familie.
I gladly help the family.
gern = gladly · helfen = to help (always takes Dativ) · die Familie (feminin) = family. "Der Familie" is feminin Dativ (die → der) — the Dativ object of "helfen".
gehen — to go
An irregular verb: ich gehe, du gehst, er/sie geht (past: ging, gegangen; uses "sein" in the perfect). "Wie geht's?" (How are you?) and "Es geht so" (It's going okay/so-so) both use this verb impersonally.
Nom Der Kurs geht gut.
The course is going well.
gehen = to go → geht (er form) · der Kurs (maskulin) = course · gut = well. "Der Kurs" is maskulin Nominativ — the subject of "geht gut".
Akk Ich gehe den Weg jeden Tag.
I go this way every day.
gehen = to go → gehe (ich form) · der Weg (maskulin) = way/path. "Den Weg" is maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) — an Akkusativ path expression, the object of "gehen".
Dat Es geht mir gut, danke.
I'm doing well, thanks.
gehen = to go → geht (es form, impersonal) · mir = to me (Dativ of ich) · danke = thanks. "Mir" is a Dativ pronoun — "es geht mir gut" is the standard idiom for "I'm doing well," literally "it goes well to me".
leider — unfortunately
A very handy word for politely declining or apologizing: "Das geht leider nicht" = That's unfortunately not possible. It never changes form and usually appears early in the sentence, right after the verb if it starts the clause.
Nom Leider ist der Termin schon voll.
Unfortunately the appointment is already full.
leider = unfortunately · der Termin (maskulin) = appointment · schon = already · voll = full. "Der Termin" is maskulin Nominativ — the subject. Putting "Leider" first pushes the verb to position 2.
Akk Ich finde den Schlüssel leider nicht.
Unfortunately I can't find the key.
leider = unfortunately · finden = to find · der Schlüssel (maskulin) = key. "Den Schlüssel" is maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) — the direct object of "finden".
Dat Leider passt der Termin der Familie nicht.
Unfortunately the appointment doesn't suit the family.
leider = unfortunately · passen = to suit (always takes Dativ) · die Familie (feminin) = family. "Der Familie" is feminin Dativ (die → der) — the Dativ object of "passen".
super — super / great
A casual, English-derived intensifier that's extremely common in spoken German. As a colloquial adjective it usually stays "super" without endings, even attributively: "eine super Idee".
Nom Der Kurs ist super.
The course is great.
super = super/great · der Kurs (maskulin) = course. "Der Kurs" is maskulin Nominativ — the subject of "ist super".
Akk Ich finde den Kurs super.
I find the course great.
super = super/great · finden = to find/think · der Kurs (maskulin) = course. "Den Kurs" is maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) — the direct object of "finden".
Dat Der Kurs passt der Familie super.
The course suits the family great.
super = great · passen = to suit (always takes Dativ) · die Familie (feminin) = family. "Der Familie" is feminin Dativ (die → der) — the Dativ object of "passen".
viel — much / a lot
"Viel" is used for uncountable amounts ("viel Zeit" = a lot of time); its plural counterpart is "viele" ("viele Leute" = many people). As an adverb ("Ich arbeite viel") it never changes form.
Nom Der Student arbeitet viel.
The student works a lot.
viel = a lot (adverb here) · der Student (maskulin) = student · arbeiten = to work. "Der Student" is maskulin Nominativ — the subject of "arbeitet viel".
Akk Ich habe viel Zeit.
I have a lot of time.
viel = a lot of · haben = to have · die Zeit (feminin) = time. "Viel Zeit" is the Akkusativ object of "haben" — "viel" stays uninflected before an uncountable noun.
Dat Mit viel Geduld geht es.
With a lot of patience, it works.
viel = a lot of · mit = with (always Dativ) · die Geduld (feminin) = patience. "Mit viel Geduld" — "viel" stays uninflected here too (uncountable nouns often keep "viel" unchanged even in Dativ).
wirklich — really
From "die Wirklichkeit" (reality). Used to add emphasis, like English "really" or "truly": "Das ist wirklich super!" As an adverb it never changes form.
Nom Der Kurs ist wirklich super.
The course is really great.
wirklich = really · der Kurs (maskulin) = course · super = great. "Der Kurs" is maskulin Nominativ — the subject of "ist … super".
Akk Ich brauche wirklich eine Information.
I really need a piece of information.
wirklich = really · brauchen = to need · eine Information (feminin) = a piece of information. "Eine Information" is feminin Akkusativ (eine → eine, no change) — the direct object of "brauchen".
Dat Ich helfe wirklich gern der Familie.
I really like helping the family.
wirklich = really · helfen = to help (always takes Dativ) · gern = gladly · die Familie (feminin) = family. "Der Familie" is feminin Dativ (die → der) — the Dativ object of "helfen".