Appearance
Netzwerk 3: City
Chapter 3 — city landmarks, measurements, transport, and directions.
Maskulin Feminin Neutrum Plural
der Mensch — person / human
"Der Mensch" is a weak masculine noun (N-Deklination): it adds "-en" in every case except the Nominativ singular. The plural is "die Menschen." Use it for a human being in general; for a "man" specifically you say "der Mann."
Nom Der Mensch ist sozial.
The human is social.
der Mensch (maskulin) = person/human · sein = to be (ist) · sozial = social. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Mensch is the subject and keeps its base form here.
Akk Ich sehe den Menschen.
I see the person.
der Mensch (maskulin) = person · sehen = to see. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den), and as a weak noun Mensch adds "-en" → "den Menschen." It is the direct object.
Dat Ich helfe dem Menschen.
I help the person.
der Mensch (maskulin) = person · helfen = to help. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem); "helfen" always takes the Dativ. The weak noun again adds "-en" → "dem Menschen."
das Haus — house
The plural "Häuser" shows the common pattern: Umlaut on the vowel (a → ä) plus "-er." "Nach Hause" (going home) and "zu Hause" (being at home) are fixed expressions worth memorizing.
Nom Das Haus ist groß.
The house is big.
das Haus (neutrum) = house · groß = big. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Haus is the subject.
Akk Wir kaufen das Haus.
We buy the house.
das Haus (neutrum) = house · kaufen = to buy. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ (neutrum never changes). Haus is the direct object.
Dat Ich wohne in dem Haus.
I live in the house.
das Haus (neutrum) = house · wohnen = to live/reside · in = in. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in" expressing location (no movement = Dativ).
das Rathaus — town hall
Every German town has a Rathaus, usually a historic building on the main square. The name comes from "Rat" (council) + "Haus" (house) — not from "rat"! Plural: Rathäuser.
Nom Das Rathaus ist sehr alt.
The town hall is very old.
das Rathaus (neutrum) = town hall · sehr = very · alt = old. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Rathaus is the subject.
Akk Ich suche das Rathaus.
I am looking for the town hall.
das Rathaus (neutrum) = town hall · suchen = to look for/search. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ (neutrum doesn't change). Rathaus is the direct object.
Dat Der Markt ist vor dem Rathaus.
The market is in front of the town hall.
das Rathaus (neutrum) = town hall · der Markt = market · vor = in front of. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "vor" showing location.
die Kirche — church
Church towers ("Kirchtürme") are landmarks in most German towns. "In die Kirche gehen" means to go to (attend) church. Plural: Kirchen.
Nom Die Kirche ist schön.
The church is beautiful.
die Kirche (feminin) = church · schön = beautiful. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Kirche is the subject.
Akk Ich besuche die Kirche.
I visit the church.
die Kirche (feminin) = church · besuchen = to visit. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Kirche is the direct object.
Dat Wir treffen uns an der Kirche.
We meet at the church.
die Kirche (feminin) = church · sich treffen = to meet · an = at/by. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "an" showing location.
der Markt — market
The weekly "Wochenmarkt" with fresh produce is a beloved tradition. "Auf dem Markt" (at the market) uses "auf," not "in." Plural: Märkte (Umlaut + -e).
Nom Der Markt ist am Samstag.
The market is on Saturday.
der Markt (maskulin) = market · am Samstag = on Saturday. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Markt is the subject.
Akk Ich mag den Markt.
I like the market.
der Markt (maskulin) = market · mögen = to like (ich mag). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Markt is the direct object.
Dat Ich kaufe Obst auf dem Markt.
I buy fruit at the market.
der Markt (maskulin) = market · kaufen = to buy · das Obst = fruit · auf = on/at. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "auf" showing location.
der Marktplatz — market square
A compound of "Markt" + "Platz" — the market square, usually the historic center of town where the market is held. The last part ("Platz") sets the gender: maskulin. Plural: Marktplätze.
Nom Der Marktplatz ist voll.
The market square is crowded.
der Marktplatz (maskulin) = market square · voll = full/crowded. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Marktplatz is the subject.
Akk Wir überqueren den Marktplatz.
We cross the market square.
der Marktplatz (maskulin) = market square · überqueren = to cross. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Marktplatz is the direct object.
Dat Ein Fest ist auf dem Marktplatz.
A festival is on the market square.
der Marktplatz (maskulin) = market square · das Fest = festival/party · auf = on. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "auf" showing location.
der Platz — square / place
"Platz" means both a public square and "space/room" (e.g. "Hier ist viel Platz" = there's lots of room here). Famous squares end in -platz: Alexanderplatz, Marienplatz. Plural: Plätze.
Nom Der Platz ist zentral.
The square is central.
der Platz (maskulin) = square/place · zentral = central. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Platz is the subject.
Akk Ich finde den Platz schön.
I find the square beautiful.
der Platz (maskulin) = square · finden = to find · schön = beautiful. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Platz is the direct object.
Dat Wir stehen auf dem Platz.
We are standing on the square.
der Platz (maskulin) = square · stehen = to stand · auf = on. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "auf" showing location.
das Schloss — castle / palace
"Das Schloss" also means "lock" (as on a door) — same word, two meanings. Germany is full of famous Schlösser like Neuschwanstein. Plural: Schlösser (Umlaut + -er).
Nom Das Schloss ist berühmt.
The castle is famous.
das Schloss (neutrum) = castle · berühmt = famous. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Schloss is the subject.
Akk Touristen besuchen das Schloss.
Tourists visit the castle.
das Schloss (neutrum) = castle · der Tourist = tourist (Touristen = plural) · besuchen = to visit. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ (neutrum doesn't change). Schloss is the direct object.
Dat Der Garten ist hinter dem Schloss.
The garden is behind the castle.
das Schloss (neutrum) = castle · der Garten = garden · hinter = behind. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "hinter" showing location.
die Brücke — bridge
Many German cities grew along rivers, so bridges are everywhere. Memory aid: "Brücke" sounds a bit like the English "bridge." Plural: Brücken.
Nom Die Brücke ist lang.
The bridge is long.
die Brücke (feminin) = bridge · lang = long. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Brücke is the subject.
Akk Wir überqueren die Brücke.
We cross the bridge.
die Brücke (feminin) = bridge · überqueren = to cross. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Brücke is the direct object.
Dat Unter der Brücke fließt der Fluss.
The river flows under the bridge.
die Brücke (feminin) = bridge · unter = under · fließen = to flow · der Fluss = river. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "unter" showing location.
der Fluss — river
Big German rivers are der Rhein, die Elbe, die Donau, der Main. "Der Fluss" comes from "fließen" (to flow). Plural: Flüsse (Umlaut + -e).
Nom Der Fluss ist tief.
The river is deep.
der Fluss (maskulin) = river · tief = deep. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Fluss is the subject.
Akk Wir sehen den Fluss.
We see the river.
der Fluss (maskulin) = river · sehen = to see. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Fluss is the direct object.
Dat Ein Boot fährt auf dem Fluss.
A boat travels on the river.
der Fluss (maskulin) = river · das Boot = boat · fahren = to travel/go · auf = on. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "auf" showing location.
der Park — park
An English loanword that is maskulin in German. The plural is "Parks" (with -s, like many borrowed words). "Im Park" (in dem Park) is where Germans jog, picnic and relax.
Nom Der Park ist grün.
The park is green.
der Park (maskulin) = park · grün = green. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Park is the subject.
Akk Ich mag den Park.
I like the park.
der Park (maskulin) = park · mögen = to like (ich mag). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Park is the direct object.
Dat Kinder spielen in dem Park.
Children play in the park.
der Park (maskulin) = park · das Kind = child (Kinder = plural) · spielen = to play · in = in. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" showing location. Often shortened to "im Park."
der Turm — tower
Church towers, castle towers and TV towers dominate German skylines (der Fernsehturm in Berlin is 368 m). Plural: Türme (Umlaut + -e).
Nom Der Turm ist hoch.
The tower is high.
der Turm (maskulin) = tower · hoch = high. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Turm is the subject.
Akk Ich sehe den Turm.
I see the tower.
der Turm (maskulin) = tower · sehen = to see. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Turm is the direct object.
Dat Von dem Turm hat man einen schönen Blick.
From the tower you have a beautiful view.
der Turm (maskulin) = tower · von = from · der Blick = view (einen schönen Blick = Akkusativ object). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "von" (always Dativ). Often shortened to "vom Turm."
die Straße — street
"Straße" is often written "Strasse" where the ß key isn't available. In addresses it's abbreviated "Str." — e.g. Hauptstr. 5. Plural: Straßen.
Nom Die Straße ist breit.
The street is wide.
die Straße (feminin) = street · breit = wide. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Straße is the subject.
Akk Wir überqueren die Straße.
We cross the street.
die Straße (feminin) = street · überqueren = to cross. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Straße is the direct object.
Dat Das Café ist in der Straße.
The café is in the street.
die Straße (feminin) = street · das Café = café · in = in. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" showing location.
der See — lake
Watch out: "der See" = lake, but "die See" = the sea! Same spelling, different gender and meaning. Plural: Seen. Germans love swimming "im See" in summer.
Nom Der See ist ruhig.
The lake is calm.
der See (maskulin) = lake · ruhig = calm/quiet. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. See is the subject.
Akk Ich mag den See.
I like the lake.
der See (maskulin) = lake · mögen = to like (ich mag). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). See is the direct object.
Dat Wir schwimmen in dem See.
We swim in the lake.
der See (maskulin) = lake · schwimmen = to swim · in = in. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" showing location. Often shortened to "im See."
die Stadt — city / town
"In der Stadt" means "in town" or "downtown." Don't confuse "Stadt" (city) with "Staat" (state/country) — they sound similar. Plural: Städte (Umlaut + -e).
Nom Die Stadt ist alt.
The city is old.
die Stadt (feminin) = city · alt = old. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Stadt is the subject.
Akk Ich liebe die Stadt.
I love the city.
die Stadt (feminin) = city · lieben = to love. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Stadt is the direct object.
Dat Ich wohne in der Stadt.
I live in the city.
die Stadt (feminin) = city · wohnen = to live/reside · in = in. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" showing location.
der Meter — meter
Germany uses the metric system for everything. "Der Meter" is maskulin; the abbreviation is "m." With a plural number the noun stays "Meter" (zwei Meter, not "Meters").
Nom Ein Meter ist hundert Zentimeter.
One meter is a hundred centimeters.
der Meter (maskulin) = meter · hundert = hundred · der Zentimeter = centimeter. "Ein" — maskulin Nominativ (der → ein). Meter is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche einen Meter Stoff.
I need one meter of fabric.
der Meter (maskulin) = meter · brauchen = to need · der Stoff = fabric. "Einen" because maskulin Akkusativ (ein → einen). Meter is the direct object.
Dat Nach einem Meter kommt die Treppe.
After one meter comes the staircase.
der Meter (maskulin) = meter · nach = after · die Treppe = staircase. "Einem" because maskulin Dativ (ein → einem) after "nach" (always Dativ).
der Kilometer — kilometer
Abbreviated "km." Distances and speed limits in Germany are all in kilometers (km/h). Like "Meter," it stays unchanged after plural numbers: fünf Kilometer.
Nom Ein Kilometer ist tausend Meter.
One kilometer is a thousand meters.
der Kilometer (maskulin) = kilometer · tausend = thousand · der Meter = meter. "Ein" — maskulin Nominativ. Kilometer is the subject.
Akk Ich laufe jeden Tag einen Kilometer.
I run one kilometer every day.
der Kilometer (maskulin) = kilometer · laufen = to run · jeden Tag = every day. "Einen" because maskulin Akkusativ (ein → einen); it expresses the distance covered (direct object).
Dat Nach einem Kilometer sind wir da.
After one kilometer we are there.
der Kilometer (maskulin) = kilometer · nach = after · da sein = to be there. "Einem" because maskulin Dativ (ein → einem) after "nach" (always Dativ).
lang — long
Adjective. Used predicatively (after "sein") it takes no ending. Used before a noun (attributively) it takes an ending. It also means "long" in time: "Wie lange?" = how long?
Nom Der Weg ist lang.
The path is long.
lang = long · der Weg = path/way. Predicative use (after "ist"): the adjective takes NO ending → "lang." The subject "der Weg" is maskulin Nominativ.
Akk Ich gehe den langen Weg.
I take the long path.
lang = long · gehen = to go/walk · der Weg = path. Attributive after "den" (maskulin Akkusativ, der → den) the adjective adds "-en" → "den langen Weg." Ending change: -∅ → -en.
Dat Nach dem langen Weg bin ich müde.
After the long path I am tired.
lang = long · nach = after · der Weg = path · müde = tired. After "dem" (maskulin Dativ, der → dem) the adjective again adds "-en" → "dem langen Weg." Ending stays -en.
breit — wide / broad
Adjective. Opposite of "schmal" (narrow). Like all adjectives, it stays uninflected after "sein" but takes an ending before a noun.
Nom Der Fluss ist breit.
The river is wide.
breit = wide · der Fluss = river. Predicative use (after "ist"): no ending → "breit." The subject "der Fluss" is maskulin Nominativ.
Akk Wir überqueren den breiten Fluss.
We cross the wide river.
breit = wide · überqueren = to cross · der Fluss = river. After "den" (maskulin Akkusativ, der → den) the adjective adds "-en" → "den breiten Fluss." Ending change: -∅ → -en.
Dat An dem breiten Fluss sitzen viele Leute.
Many people are sitting by the wide river.
breit = wide · an = at/by · der Fluss = river · die Leute = people. After "dem" (maskulin Dativ, der → dem) the adjective again adds "-en" → "dem breiten Fluss." Ending stays -en.
hoch — high / tall
Careful: "hoch" drops its "c" when it takes an ending → "hohe, hohen." So "Der Turm ist hoch" but "der hohe Turm." A very common irregularity to remember.
Nom Der Turm ist hoch.
The tower is high.
hoch = high · der Turm = tower. Predicative use (after "ist"): no ending, and it keeps the "c" → "hoch." The subject "der Turm" is maskulin Nominativ.
Akk Ich sehe den hohen Turm.
I see the tall tower.
hoch = high · sehen = to see · der Turm = tower. After "den" (maskulin Akkusativ, der → den) the adjective loses its "c" and adds "-en" → "den hohen Turm." Change: hoch → hohen.
Dat Auf dem hohen Turm ist es windig.
On the tall tower it is windy.
hoch = high · auf = on · der Turm = tower · windig = windy. After "dem" (maskulin Dativ, der → dem) the adjective again becomes "hohen" → "dem hohen Turm."
das Prozent — percent
Written with the "%" sign. After a number greater than one, the noun stays "Prozent" (zehn Prozent). "Prozent" is neutrum. Common in sales: "20% Rabatt" (20% discount).
Nom Ein Prozent ist wenig.
One percent is little.
das Prozent (neutrum) = percent · wenig = little/few. "Ein" — neutrum Nominativ (das → ein). Prozent is the subject.
Akk Die Bank nimmt ein Prozent.
The bank takes one percent.
das Prozent (neutrum) = percent · die Bank = bank · nehmen = to take (sie nimmt). "Ein" stays "ein" in Akkusativ (neutrum doesn't change). Prozent is the direct object.
Dat Mit einem Prozent kann man nichts kaufen.
With one percent you can't buy anything.
das Prozent (neutrum) = percent · mit = with · kaufen = to buy · nichts = nothing. "Einem" because neutrum Dativ (ein → einem) after "mit" (always Dativ).
circa — approximately / about
Adverb, often written "ca." It comes before a number: "ca. 100 Meter" = about 100 meters. Synonyms: "ungefähr," "etwa." It doesn't change form.
Nom Der Weg ist circa zwei Kilometer lang.
The path is approximately two kilometers long.
circa = approximately · der Weg = path · der Kilometer = kilometer · lang = long. "Circa" just modifies the number. The subject "der Weg" is maskulin Nominativ.
Akk Ich brauche circa einen Euro.
I need about one euro.
circa = about · brauchen = to need · der Euro = euro. "Einen Euro" is the direct object: maskulin Akkusativ (ein → einen). "Circa" simply modifies the amount.
Dat Nach circa einer Stunde sind wir da.
After about one hour we are there.
circa = about · nach = after · die Stunde = hour. "Einer Stunde" is feminin Dativ (die → der, eine → einer) after "nach." "Circa" modifies the time.
der Euro — euro
Germany's currency since 2002. "Der Euro" is maskulin, but after a number the plural stays "Euro" (fünf Euro). The cent is "der Cent." Prices are spoken "drei Euro fünfzig."
Nom Der Euro ist stark.
The euro is strong.
der Euro (maskulin) = euro · stark = strong. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Euro is the subject.
Akk Das Ticket kostet einen Euro.
The ticket costs one euro.
der Euro (maskulin) = euro · das Ticket = ticket · kosten = to cost. "Einen" because maskulin Akkusativ (ein → einen). Euro is the direct object of "kosten."
Dat Mit einem Euro kaufe ich ein Brötchen.
With one euro I buy a bread roll.
der Euro (maskulin) = euro · mit = with · kaufen = to buy · das Brötchen = bread roll. "Einem" because maskulin Dativ (ein → einem) after "mit" (always Dativ).
die Million — million
"Die Million" is a feminin noun (unlike "hundert" or "tausend," which are just numbers). Plural: Millionen. Written "1 Mio." Note the stress: Milli-ON.
Nom Eine Million ist viel Geld.
One million is a lot of money.
die Million (feminin) = million · viel = much/a lot · das Geld = money. "Eine" — feminin Nominativ (die → eine). Million is the subject.
Akk Die Stadt hat eine Million Einwohner.
The city has one million inhabitants.
die Million (feminin) = million · die Stadt = city · haben = to have · der Einwohner = inhabitant. "Eine" stays "eine" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Million is the direct object.
Dat Mit einer Million Euro bin ich reich.
With one million euros I am rich.
die Million (feminin) = million · mit = with · reich = rich. "Einer" because feminin Dativ (die → der, eine → einer) after "mit" (always Dativ).
das Fahrrad — bicycle
A compound of "fahren" (to ride) + "das Rad" (wheel). Often shortened to "das Rad." Germans cycle everywhere — "mit dem Fahrrad fahren" = to ride a bike. Plural: Fahrräder.
Nom Das Fahrrad ist neu.
The bicycle is new.
das Fahrrad (neutrum) = bicycle · neu = new. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Fahrrad is the subject.
Akk Ich kaufe das Fahrrad.
I buy the bicycle.
das Fahrrad (neutrum) = bicycle · kaufen = to buy. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ (neutrum doesn't change). Fahrrad is the direct object.
Dat Ich fahre mit dem Fahrrad zur Arbeit.
I ride to work by bicycle.
das Fahrrad (neutrum) = bicycle · fahren = to ride/go · mit = with/by · die Arbeit = work. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit" (always Dativ). "mit dem Fahrrad" = by bike.
der Bus — bus
"Den Bus nehmen" = to take the bus; "mit dem Bus fahren" = to go by bus. Plural: Busse (double s). The bus stop is "die Bushaltestelle."
Nom Der Bus ist voll.
The bus is full.
der Bus (maskulin) = bus · voll = full. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Bus is the subject.
Akk Ich nehme den Bus.
I take the bus.
der Bus (maskulin) = bus · nehmen = to take. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Bus is the direct object.
Dat Ich fahre mit dem Bus.
I go by bus.
der Bus (maskulin) = bus · fahren = to go/ride · mit = with/by. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit" (always Dativ).
der Zug — train
German long-distance trains are run by die Deutsche Bahn (ICE, IC). "Der Zug" comes from "ziehen" (to pull). Plural: Züge (Umlaut + -e).
Nom Der Zug ist pünktlich.
The train is on time.
der Zug (maskulin) = train · pünktlich = punctual/on time. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Zug is the subject.
Akk Ich nehme den Zug.
I take the train.
der Zug (maskulin) = train · nehmen = to take. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Zug is the direct object.
Dat Wir fahren mit dem Zug nach Berlin.
We travel to Berlin by train.
der Zug (maskulin) = train · fahren = to travel/go · mit = with/by · nach = to (cities). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit" (always Dativ).
die U-Bahn — underground / metro
"U" stands for "Untergrund" (underground). It runs beneath big cities like Berlin and München. The last part "Bahn" (feminin) sets the gender. Plural: U-Bahnen.
Nom Die U-Bahn ist schnell.
The metro is fast.
die U-Bahn (feminin) = underground/metro · schnell = fast. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. U-Bahn is the subject.
Akk Ich nehme die U-Bahn.
I take the metro.
die U-Bahn (feminin) = metro · nehmen = to take. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). U-Bahn is the direct object.
Dat Ich fahre mit der U-Bahn.
I go by metro.
die U-Bahn (feminin) = metro · fahren = to go/ride · mit = with/by. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit" (always Dativ).
die S-Bahn — suburban train
"S" stands for "Stadtschnellbahn" — the fast train connecting a city with its suburbs, mostly above ground. Don't mix it up with the U-Bahn. Plural: S-Bahnen.
Nom Die S-Bahn kommt gleich.
The suburban train is coming soon.
die S-Bahn (feminin) = suburban train · kommen = to come · gleich = right away/soon. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. S-Bahn is the subject.
Akk Ich nehme die S-Bahn.
I take the suburban train.
die S-Bahn (feminin) = suburban train · nehmen = to take. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). S-Bahn is the direct object.
Dat Ich fahre mit der S-Bahn zur Uni.
I go to the university by suburban train.
die S-Bahn (feminin) = suburban train · fahren = to go/ride · mit = with/by · die Uni = university. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit" (always Dativ).
die Straßenbahn — tram / streetcar
A compound of "Straße" + "Bahn" — the tram runs on rails in the street. Also called "die Tram" or "die Elektrische." Plural: Straßenbahnen.
Nom Die Straßenbahn ist gelb.
The tram is yellow.
die Straßenbahn (feminin) = tram · gelb = yellow. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Straßenbahn is the subject.
Akk Ich nehme die Straßenbahn.
I take the tram.
die Straßenbahn (feminin) = tram · nehmen = to take. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Straßenbahn is the direct object.
Dat Wir fahren mit der Straßenbahn.
We go by tram.
die Straßenbahn (feminin) = tram · fahren = to go/ride · mit = with/by. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit" (always Dativ).
das Flugzeug — airplane
A compound of "flug" (from "fliegen," to fly) + "Zeug" (device/gear). With airplanes you say "fliegen," not "fahren." Plural: Flugzeuge.
Nom Das Flugzeug ist groß.
The airplane is big.
das Flugzeug (neutrum) = airplane · groß = big. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Flugzeug is the subject.
Akk Ich nehme das Flugzeug.
I take the airplane.
das Flugzeug (neutrum) = airplane · nehmen = to take. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ (neutrum doesn't change). Flugzeug is the direct object.
Dat Wir fliegen mit dem Flugzeug.
We travel by airplane.
das Flugzeug (neutrum) = airplane · fliegen = to fly · mit = with/by. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit" (always Dativ).
das Schiff — ship
A "Schiff" is a large vessel (bigger than "das Boot"). With ships and boats you say "fahren." Plural: Schiffe. Note the double "f."
Nom Das Schiff ist alt.
The ship is old.
das Schiff (neutrum) = ship · alt = old. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Schiff is the subject.
Akk Wir sehen das Schiff.
We see the ship.
das Schiff (neutrum) = ship · sehen = to see. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ (neutrum doesn't change). Schiff is the direct object.
Dat Wir fahren mit dem Schiff.
We travel by ship.
das Schiff (neutrum) = ship · fahren = to travel/go · mit = with/by. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit" (always Dativ).
das Boot — boat
A "Boot" is a small watercraft (a rowboat, sailboat). Bigger vessels are "Schiffe." Related to English "boat." Plural: Boote.
Nom Das Boot ist klein.
The boat is small.
das Boot (neutrum) = boat · klein = small. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Boot is the subject.
Akk Wir mieten das Boot.
We rent the boat.
das Boot (neutrum) = boat · mieten = to rent. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ (neutrum doesn't change). Boot is the direct object.
Dat Wir sitzen in dem Boot.
We are sitting in the boat.
das Boot (neutrum) = boat · sitzen = to sit · in = in. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in" showing location.
zu Fuß — on foot
A fixed expression: "zu Fuß gehen" = to walk/go on foot. It never changes form. "der Fuß" means foot (plural: Füße). The counterpart is "mit dem Bus/Auto fahren."
Nom Der Mann geht zu Fuß.
The man goes on foot.
zu Fuß = on foot · der Mann = man · gehen = to go/walk. The subject "der Mann" is maskulin Nominativ. "zu Fuß" is a fixed adverbial phrase and does not change.
Akk Ich gehe den Weg zu Fuß.
I walk the path on foot.
zu Fuß = on foot · gehen = to go/walk · der Weg = path. "Den Weg" is the direct object: maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). "zu Fuß" stays unchanged.
Dat Zu Fuß gehe ich zu der Kirche.
On foot I walk to the church.
zu Fuß = on foot · gehen = to go/walk · die Kirche = church. "Der Kirche" is feminin Dativ (die → der) after "zu" (always Dativ). Often shortened to "zur Kirche."
fahren — to go / drive / ride
Use "fahren" for travel by vehicle (car, bus, train, bike, boat). It's a stem-changing verb: ich fahre, du fährst, er/sie fährt (a → ä). For walking, use "gehen."
Nom Der Bus fährt schnell.
The bus drives fast.
fahren = to go/drive · der Bus = bus · schnell = fast. Here "fahren" is intransitive. The subject "der Bus" is maskulin Nominativ; the verb takes the 3rd-person form "fährt" (a → ä).
Akk Ich fahre das Fahrrad.
I ride the bicycle.
fahren = to ride · das Fahrrad = bicycle. "Ich fahre" (no stem change in the ich-form). "Das Fahrrad" is the direct object in the Akkusativ (neutrum, no change to the article).
Dat Wir fahren mit dem Zug.
We go by train.
fahren = to go · mit = with/by · der Zug = train. "Wir fahren" (plural form = infinitive). "Dem Zug" is maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit" (always Dativ).
gehen — to go / walk
"Gehen" means to go on foot. It's regular in the present: ich gehe, du gehst, er geht. "Wie geht's?" (how are you?) also uses this verb idiomatically.
Nom Die Frau geht nach Hause.
The woman goes home.
gehen = to go/walk · die Frau = woman · nach Hause = home (fixed phrase). The subject "die Frau" is feminin Nominativ; verb form "geht."
Akk Ich gehe den Weg.
I walk the path.
gehen = to walk · der Weg = path. "Ich gehe." "Den Weg" is the direct object in the Akkusativ: maskulin (der → den).
Dat Er geht zu dem Markt.
He goes to the market.
gehen = to go/walk · zu = to · der Markt = market. "Er geht." "Dem Markt" is maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "zu" (always Dativ). Often shortened to "zum Markt."
kommen — to come
"Kommen" is regular: ich komme, du kommst, er kommt. "Ich komme aus ..." is how you say where you're from. It's intransitive, so any noun in the sentence comes with a preposition.
Nom Der Bus kommt gleich.
The bus is coming soon.
kommen = to come · der Bus = bus · gleich = soon/right away. The subject "der Bus" is maskulin Nominativ; verb form "kommt."
Akk Ich komme durch den Park.
I come through the park.
kommen = to come · durch = through · der Park = park. "Den Park" is maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) because "durch" always takes the Akkusativ.
Dat Sie kommt aus der Stadt.
She comes from the city.
kommen = to come · aus = from/out of · die Stadt = city. "Der Stadt" is feminin Dativ (die → der) because "aus" always takes the Dativ.
rechts — right (direction)
Directional adverb. "Nach rechts" = to the right (turning); "rechts von ..." = to the right of ... Opposite: "links." Used constantly when giving directions.
Nom Die Kirche ist rechts.
The church is on the right.
rechts = right · die Kirche = church. The subject "die Kirche" is feminin Nominativ. "rechts" is an adverb telling where it is.
Akk Rechts sehe ich den Park.
On the right I see the park.
rechts = right · sehen = to see · der Park = park. "Den Park" is the direct object: maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). The sentence starts with "Rechts," so the verb comes second.
Dat Rechts von dem Rathaus ist der Markt.
To the right of the town hall is the market.
rechts = right · von = of/from · das Rathaus = town hall. "Dem Rathaus" is neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "von" (always Dativ). "rechts von ..." = to the right of.
links — left (direction)
Directional adverb, opposite of "rechts." "Nach links" = to the left. Memory tip: "links" has the same "l" as English "left." Note the "s" is always there.
Nom Der Bahnhof ist links.
The station is on the left.
links = left · der Bahnhof = train station. The subject "der Bahnhof" is maskulin Nominativ. "links" is an adverb of place.
Akk Links sehe ich die Brücke.
On the left I see the bridge.
links = left · sehen = to see · die Brücke = bridge. "Die Brücke" is the direct object: feminin Akkusativ (die stays die). Starting with "Links" puts the verb in second position.
Dat Links von der Kirche ist ein Café.
To the left of the church is a café.
links = left · von = of/from · die Kirche = church · das Café = café. "Der Kirche" is feminin Dativ (die → der) after "von" (always Dativ).
geradeaus — straight ahead
Directional adverb. "Immer geradeaus!" = keep going straight! A key phrase for following directions. It's a compound of "gerade" (straight) + "aus."
Nom Die Straße geht geradeaus.
The street goes straight ahead.
geradeaus = straight ahead · die Straße = street · gehen = to go/run. The subject "die Straße" is feminin Nominativ. "geradeaus" is an adverb of direction.
Akk Geradeaus sehe ich den Turm.
Straight ahead I see the tower.
geradeaus = straight ahead · sehen = to see · der Turm = tower. "Den Turm" is the direct object: maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). The sentence begins with "Geradeaus," so the verb comes second.
Dat Geradeaus kommen Sie zu dem See.
Going straight ahead you reach the lake.
geradeaus = straight ahead · kommen = to come/get to · der See = lake. "Dem See" is maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "zu" (always Dativ). Often shortened to "zum See."
das Event — event
An English loanword, neutrum in German. Pronounced roughly "i-WENT." Used for concerts, parties, launches. Plural: Events. A more German word is "die Veranstaltung."
Nom Das Event ist heute.
The event is today.
das Event (neutrum) = event · heute = today. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Event is the subject.
Akk Wir planen das Event.
We are planning the event.
das Event (neutrum) = event · planen = to plan. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ (neutrum doesn't change). Event is the direct object.
Dat Viele Leute sind auf dem Event.
Many people are at the event.
das Event (neutrum) = event · viele Leute = many people · auf = at/on. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "auf" showing location.
das Festival — festival
Another loanword, neutrum. Used for music and film festivals (Musikfestival, Filmfestival). Germany's summers are full of them. Plural: Festivals.
Nom Das Festival ist im Sommer.
The festival is in summer.
das Festival (neutrum) = festival · der Sommer = summer (im Sommer = in summer). "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Festival is the subject.
Akk Ich besuche das Festival.
I attend the festival.
das Festival (neutrum) = festival · besuchen = to visit/attend. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ (neutrum doesn't change). Festival is the direct object.
Dat Wir tanzen auf dem Festival.
We dance at the festival.
das Festival (neutrum) = festival · tanzen = to dance · auf = at/on. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "auf" showing location.
das Ticket — ticket
A loanword, neutrum. Used for events and transport. A synonym for transport is "die Fahrkarte." Plural: Tickets. "Mit dem Ticket" lets you ride bus and train.
Nom Das Ticket ist teuer.
The ticket is expensive.
das Ticket (neutrum) = ticket · teuer = expensive. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Ticket is the subject.
Akk Ich kaufe das Ticket.
I buy the ticket.
das Ticket (neutrum) = ticket · kaufen = to buy. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ (neutrum doesn't change). Ticket is the direct object.
Dat Mit dem Ticket fahre ich Bus und Bahn.
With the ticket I ride bus and train.
das Ticket (neutrum) = ticket · mit = with · fahren = to ride/go · die Bahn = train/rail. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit" (always Dativ).
das Konzerthaus — concert hall
A compound of "Konzert" + "Haus" — takes the gender of "Haus," so neutrum. Berlin's Konzerthaus on the Gendarmenmarkt is one of the most famous in Germany. Plural: Konzerthäuser.
Nom Das Konzerthaus ist berühmt.
The concert hall is famous.
das Konzerthaus (neutrum) = concert hall · berühmt = famous. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Konzerthaus is the subject.
Akk Wir besuchen das Konzerthaus.
We visit the concert hall.
besuchen = to visit. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ (neutrum doesn't change). Konzerthaus is the direct object.
Dat Die Musik in dem Konzerthaus ist toll.
The music in the concert hall is great.
in = in (Dativ for location) · toll = great. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in."
das Hotel — hotel (plural: die Hotels)
A loanword from French, neutrum in German, plural adds -s like many borrowed words. "Im Hotel übernachten" (to stay overnight at the hotel) is a key travel phrase.
Nom Das Hotel ist teuer.
The hotel is expensive.
das Hotel (neutrum) = hotel · teuer = expensive. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Hotel is the subject.
Akk Wir suchen das Hotel.
We're looking for the hotel.
suchen = to look for. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ. Hotel is the direct object.
Dat Wir übernachten in dem Hotel.
We stay overnight at the hotel.
übernachten = to stay overnight · in = in (Dativ for location). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in."
der Bahnhof — train station
Compound of "Bahn" (rail) + "Hof" (yard/courtyard) — takes the gender of "Hof," maskulin. The "Hauptbahnhof" (Hbf) is the main station in any German city. Plural: Bahnhöfe.
Nom Der Bahnhof ist groß.
The train station is big.
der Bahnhof (maskulin) = train station · groß = big. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Bahnhof is the subject.
Akk Ich suche den Bahnhof.
I'm looking for the train station.
suchen = to look for. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Bahnhof is the direct object.
Dat Der Zug kommt an dem Bahnhof an.
The train arrives at the station.
ankommen = to arrive (separable verb) · an = at (Dativ for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "an."
der Hafen — port / harbor (plural: die Häfen)
Note the umlaut in the plural: Hafen → Häfen. Hamburg's Hafen is the biggest in Germany, nicknamed "Deutschlands Tor zur Welt" (Germany's gate to the world).
Nom Der Hafen ist voll mit Schiffen.
The port is full of ships.
der Hafen (maskulin) = port/harbor · voll = full · das Schiff = ship. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Hafen is the subject.
Akk Wir besuchen den Hafen.
We're visiting the port.
besuchen = to visit. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Hafen is the direct object.
Dat Das Schiff liegt in dem Hafen.
The ship is lying in the port.
liegen = to lie/be located · in = in (Dativ for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in."
das Meer — sea (plural: die Meere)
Germany borders two seas: die Nordsee (North Sea) and die Ostsee (Baltic Sea). "Ans Meer fahren" (to go to the seaside) is a classic summer trip.
Nom Das Meer ist blau.
The sea is blue.
das Meer (neutrum) = sea · blau = blue. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Meer is the subject.
Akk Ich liebe das Meer.
I love the sea.
lieben = to love. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ. Meer is the direct object.
Dat Wir schwimmen in dem Meer.
We swim in the sea.
schwimmen = to swim · in = in (Dativ for location). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in."
sehen, er sieht — to see
A stem-changing verb: ich sehe, du siehst, er/sie sieht (e → ie). Used constantly for describing what's visible when giving directions: "Da sieht man den Hafen" (There you can see the port).
Nom Der Tourist sieht den Turm.
The tourist sees the tower.
der Tourist (maskulin) = tourist · sehen = to see → sieht (er form, stem change e → ie). "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Tourist is the subject.
Akk Ich sehe den Hafen.
I see the port.
der Hafen (maskulin) = port. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Hafen is the direct object.
Dat Von dem Turm sieht man das Meer.
From the tower you can see the sea.
von = from (always Dativ) · man = one/you (general). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "von."
da — there
A simple adverb of place, used constantly when pointing something out: "Da ist das Hotel" (There is the hotel). Also used to mean "then/at that point" in time expressions.
Nom Da ist das Hotel.
There is the hotel.
da = there · das Hotel (neutrum) = hotel. "Da" begins the sentence, pushing the verb to position 2. Hotel is the subject, neutrum Nominativ.
Akk Da sehe ich den Hafen.
There I see the port.
sehen = to see · der Hafen (maskulin) = port. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Hafen is the direct object.
Dat Da, neben dem Bahnhof, ist der Markt.
There, next to the train station, is the market.
neben = next to (Dativ for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "neben."
Das ist … — That is … / This is …
The standard way to point out and name something on a tour: "Das ist das Rathaus" (That's the town hall). "Das" itself doesn't change — it's the neutral pointing word, regardless of the gender of what follows.
Nom Das ist das Rathaus.
That is the town hall.
das Rathaus (neutrum) = town hall. "Das ist" stays unchanged; Rathaus is the predicate noun, neutrum Nominativ.
Akk Ich fotografiere das, das ist die Kirche.
I'm photographing that — that's the church.
fotografieren = to photograph · die Kirche (feminin) = church. "Das" here is the direct object of "fotografieren" (Akkusativ, neutrum unchanged).
Dat Das ist das Café neben dem Bahnhof.
That is the café next to the train station.
das Café (neutrum) = café · neben = next to (Dativ for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "neben."
interessant — interesting
Adjective, uninflected after "sein" but takes an ending before a noun. A useful, flexible word for reacting to almost anything you see on a Stadttour.
Nom Das Schloss ist interessant.
The castle is interesting.
interessant = interesting · das Schloss = castle. Predicative use (after "ist"): no ending. Schloss is the subject, neutrum Nominativ.
Akk Wir sehen einen interessanten Turm.
We see an interesting tower.
der Turm = tower. After "einen" (maskulin Akkusativ) the adjective adds "-en" → "interessanten." Turm is the direct object.
Dat Ich schreibe von einem interessanten Ort.
I'm writing about an interesting place.
der Ort = place · von = about/from (always Dativ). After "einem" (maskulin Dativ) the adjective adds "-en" → "interessanten."
schön — beautiful
One of the most common German adjectives, used for scenery, weather, and compliments alike. Predicative form takes no ending; attributive form declines like any adjective.
Nom Die Brücke ist schön.
The bridge is beautiful.
schön = beautiful · die Brücke = bridge. Predicative use: no ending. Brücke is the subject, feminin Nominativ.
Akk Wir sehen eine schöne Kirche.
We see a beautiful church.
die Kirche = church. After "eine" (feminin Akkusativ) the adjective adds "-e" → "schöne." Kirche is the direct object.
Dat Wir stehen vor einem schönen Haus.
We stand in front of a beautiful house.
das Haus = house · vor = in front of (Dativ for location). After "einem" (neutrum Dativ) the adjective adds "-en" → "schönen."
die Station — station (plural: die Stationen)
A more general word than "Bahnhof" — used for bus/tram stops or any point along a route. Also means "ward" in a hospital context ("die Krankenstation").
Nom Die Station ist nah.
The station is close.
die Station (feminin) = station · nah = close/near. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Station is the subject.
Akk Wir erreichen die Station.
We reach the station.
erreichen = to reach. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ. Station is the direct object.
Dat Wir warten an der Station.
We wait at the station.
warten = to wait · an = at (Dativ for location). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "an."
der Ort — place (plural: die Orte)
"Der Ort" can mean a specific place, a small town/village, or an abstract location. "Vor Ort" (on-site) is a common phrase. Compare with "der Platz" (a public square).
Nom Der Ort ist ruhig.
The place is quiet.
der Ort (maskulin) = place · ruhig = quiet. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Ort is the subject.
Akk Ich mag den Ort.
I like the place.
mögen = to like. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Ort is the direct object.
Dat Wir treffen uns an dem Ort.
We meet at the place.
sich treffen = to meet · an = at (Dativ for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "an."
über — over / above / about (preposition, + Dativ or Akkusativ)
A two-way preposition (Wechselpräposition): Dativ for location, Akkusativ for movement across/over. It can also mean "about" a topic, in which case it always takes Akkusativ.
Nom Die Brücke über dem Fluss ist alt.
The bridge over the river is old.
die Brücke (feminin) = bridge. Die Brücke is the subject in Nominativ.
Akk Wir sprechen über die Stadt.
We talk about the city.
sprechen über = to talk about · die Stadt (feminin) = city. "Die" — feminin Akkusativ, since "über" meaning "about" always takes Akkusativ.
Dat Das Haus ist über hundert Jahre alt.
The house is over a hundred years old.
hundert = hundred · das Jahr = year · alt = old. "Über" here means "more than" and doesn't trigger a case change on "Jahre" — a fixed idiom for age.
die Kosten (Pl.) — expenses / costs
Only used in the plural — there's no singular "die Kost" with this meaning. From "kosten" (to cost). "Die Kosten übernehmen" means to cover/pay the costs.
Nom Die Kosten sind hoch.
The costs are high.
die Kosten (plural only) = costs · hoch = high. "Die" — plural Nominativ. Kosten is the subject.
Akk Wir übernehmen die Kosten.
We'll cover the costs.
übernehmen = to take on/cover. "Die" stays "die" in plural Akkusativ. Kosten is the direct object.
Dat Wir sprechen von den Kosten.
We're talking about the costs.
von = about/from (always Dativ). "Den Kosten" — plural Dativ adds -n. "Von" triggers Dativ.
die Fahrkarte — travel ticket (plural: die Fahrkarten)
Compound of "fahren" + "Karte" — takes the gender of "Karte," feminin. Used specifically for bus/train tickets, as opposed to "das Ticket" for events.
Nom Die Fahrkarte ist gültig.
The ticket is valid.
die Fahrkarte (feminin) = travel ticket · gültig = valid. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Fahrkarte is the subject.
Akk Ich kaufe die Fahrkarte.
I buy the ticket.
kaufen = to buy. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ. Fahrkarte is the direct object.
Dat Ich fahre mit der Fahrkarte.
I travel with the ticket.
mit = with (always Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit."
schnell — quick(ly) / fast
Both an adjective and adverb, so "schnell" doesn't change when describing an action. "Der Zug fährt schnell" and "der schnelle Zug" show it uninflected vs. inflected.
Nom Der Zug ist schnell.
The train is fast.
schnell = fast · der Zug = train. Predicative use: no ending. Zug is the subject, maskulin Nominativ.
Akk Ich nehme den schnellen Bus.
I take the fast bus.
der Bus = bus. After "den" (maskulin Akkusativ) the adjective adds "-en" → "schnellen." Bus is the direct object.
Dat Mit dem schnellen Zug sind wir bald da.
With the fast train we'll be there soon.
mit = with (always Dativ). After "dem" (maskulin Dativ) the adjective adds "-en" → "schnellen."
nach — to (preposition, + Dativ, with cities/countries)
Used for direction "to" with cities and (most) countries: "Der Zug fährt nach Berlin." Always Dativ, though city/country names usually take no article, so the case is invisible.
Nom Der Zug fährt nach Berlin.
The train travels to Berlin.
der Zug (maskulin) = train · fahren = to travel. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Zug is the subject.
Akk Ich sehe den Zug nach München.
I see the train to Munich.
sehen = to see. "Den" — maskulin Akkusativ (der → den), the direct object, unrelated to "nach" itself.
Dat Wir fahren nach der Pause weiter.
We continue traveling after the break.
die Pause (feminin) = break · weiterfahren = to continue traveling. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) — here "nach" means "after," always Dativ.
der Weg — way / path (plural: die Wege)
"Nach dem Weg fragen" (to ask for directions) is essential for travelers. "Der Weg" can mean a literal path or, abstractly, "the way to do something."
Nom Der Weg ist lang.
The way is long.
der Weg (maskulin) = way/path · lang = long. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Weg is the subject.
Akk Ich zeige den Weg.
I show the way.
zeigen = to show. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Weg is the direct object.
Dat Er fragt nach dem Weg.
He asks for directions.
fragen nach = to ask for (always Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "nach."
richtig — correct / right
Adjective and adverb. "Ist das richtig?" (Is that correct?) is used constantly to confirm directions or facts. Opposite: "falsch" (wrong).
Nom Der Plan ist richtig.
The plan is correct.
richtig = correct · der Plan = plan. Predicative use: no ending. Plan is the subject, maskulin Nominativ.
Akk Ich zeichne den richtigen Weg.
I draw the correct way.
zeichnen = to draw · der Weg = way. After "den" (maskulin Akkusativ) the adjective adds "-en" → "richtigen." Weg is the direct object.
Dat Wir sind auf dem richtigen Weg.
We're on the right track.
auf = on (Dativ for location). After "dem" (maskulin Dativ) the adjective adds "-en" → "richtigen."
genau — exactly
A very common word of confirmation — "Genau!" is a natural way to say "exactly right!" in conversation, similar to "Ja, genau."
Nom Genau! Die Mitte ist hier.
Exactly! The middle is here.
genau = exactly · die Mitte (feminin) = middle. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Mitte is the subject.
Akk Ich verstehe den Plan genau.
I understand the plan exactly.
verstehen = to understand · der Plan = plan. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Plan is the direct object.
Dat Genau vor dem Rathaus treffen wir uns.
We're meeting exactly in front of the town hall.
vor = in front of (Dativ for location). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "vor."
die Mitte — middle (plural: die Mitten)
"In der Mitte" (in the middle) is essential when giving directions. "Die Mitte der Stadt" is the town center, often just called "die Innenstadt."
Nom Die Mitte ist hier.
The middle is here.
die Mitte (feminin) = middle. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Mitte is the subject.
Akk Wir finden die Mitte.
We find the middle.
finden = to find. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ. Mitte is the direct object.
Dat Das Rathaus ist in der Mitte.
The town hall is in the middle.
in = in (Dativ for location). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in."
also — so / therefore
A connector word used to summarize or draw a conclusion. Often starts a sentence when giving step-by-step directions: "Also, zuerst links und dann geradeaus."
Nom Also, der Weg ist hier.
So, the way is here.
also = so/therefore · der Weg (maskulin) = way. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Weg is the subject.
Akk Also, ich zeige den Weg.
So, I'll show the way.
zeigen = to show. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Weg is the direct object.
Dat Also, wir gehen zu dem See.
So, we're going to the lake.
zu = to (always Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "zu."
zeigen — to show
A regular verb: ich zeige, du zeigst, er/sie zeigt. Very common with two objects: you show SOMETHING (Akkusativ) to SOMEONE (Dativ). "Zeigen Sie mir den Weg" = show me the way.
Nom Der Tourist zeigt den Plan.
The tourist shows the plan.
der Tourist (maskulin) = tourist. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Tourist is the subject.
Akk Ich zeige den Weg.
I show the way.
der Weg (maskulin) = way. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Weg is the direct object.
Dat Ich zeige dem Gast den Bahnhof.
I show the guest the train station.
der Gast (maskulin) = guest. "Dem" because the person shown TO is the indirect object (Dativ): maskulin Dativ (der → dem).
der Plan — plan / map (plural: die Pläne)
Can mean a city map ("der Stadtplan") or an abstract plan of action. Note the umlaut in the plural: Plan → Pläne.
Nom Der Plan ist gut.
The plan is good.
der Plan (maskulin) = plan · gut = good. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Plan is the subject.
Akk Ich zeichne den Plan.
I draw the plan.
zeichnen = to draw. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Plan is the direct object.
Dat Der Weg steht auf dem Plan.
The way is marked on the plan.
stehen = to stand/be marked · auf = on (Dativ for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "auf."
zeichnen — to draw
A regular verb: ich zeichne, du zeichnest, er/sie zeichnet. Used for drawing a map or sketch — "Zeichnen Sie den Weg!" (Draw the route!) is common in direction exercises.
Nom Der Student zeichnet gut.
The student draws well.
der Student (maskulin) = student · gut = well. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Student is the subject.
Akk Ich zeichne den Plan.
I draw the plan.
der Plan (maskulin) = plan. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Plan is the direct object.
Dat Ich helfe der Gruppe beim Zeichnen.
I help the group with the drawing.
helfen = to help (+ Dativ) · die Gruppe (feminin) = group. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der).
der Start — start / launch (Sg.)
Used for the starting point of a route, or the launch of something (a race, a project). Only used in the singular in most everyday contexts.
Nom Der Start ist am Bahnhof.
The start is at the train station.
der Start (maskulin) = start · der Bahnhof = train station. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Start is the subject.
Akk Wir planen den Start.
We're planning the start.
planen = to plan. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Start is the direct object.
Dat Wir treffen uns an dem Start.
We meet at the start.
an = at (Dativ for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "an."
das Ziel — goal / destination (plural: die Ziele)
Can mean a physical destination (the end of a route) or an abstract goal. "Am Ziel ankommen" = to arrive at the destination.
Nom Das Ziel ist das Hotel.
The destination is the hotel.
das Ziel (neutrum) = destination/goal · das Hotel = hotel. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Ziel is the subject.
Akk Wir erreichen das Ziel.
We reach the destination.
erreichen = to reach. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ. Ziel is the direct object.
Dat Wir sind schon an dem Ziel.
We are already at the destination.
an = at (Dativ for location). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "an."
schon — already
A very common adverb used to say something happened sooner than expected. "Da ist schon das Hotel" (There's already the hotel) — often used approvingly on a tour.
Nom Schon ist das Hotel da.
The hotel is already there.
schon = already · das Hotel (neutrum) = hotel. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Hotel is the subject.
Akk Ich sehe schon den Turm.
I already see the tower.
sehen = to see · der Turm (maskulin) = tower. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Turm is the direct object.
Dat Wir sind schon an dem Ziel.
We are already at the destination.
an = at (Dativ for location) · das Ziel = destination. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "an."
zuerst — first / at first
Used to sequence directions or steps: "Zuerst rechts, dann geradeaus" (First right, then straight ahead). Pairs naturally with "dann" (then).
Nom Zuerst kommt die Brücke.
First comes the bridge.
zuerst = first · die Brücke (feminin) = bridge. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Brücke is the subject.
Akk Zuerst sehen wir den Markt.
First we see the market.
sehen = to see · der Markt (maskulin) = market. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Markt is the direct object.
Dat Zuerst gehen wir zu dem See.
First we go to the lake.
zu = to (always Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "zu."
dann — then
Used to sequence steps after "zuerst": "Zuerst links, dann geradeaus." Also used in general narration to mean "then/next."
Nom Dann kommt der Marktplatz.
Then comes the market square.
dann = then · der Marktplatz (maskulin) = market square. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Marktplatz is the subject.
Akk Dann sehen Sie den Turm.
Then you see the tower.
sehen = to see · der Turm (maskulin) = tower. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Turm is the direct object.
Dat Dann sind Sie an dem Ziel.
Then you are at the destination.
an = at (Dativ for location) · das Ziel = destination. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "an."