Appearance
Netzwerk 4: Groceries
Chapter 4 — fruits, vegetables, baked goods, meat, dairy, and shops.
Maskulin Feminin Neutrum Plural
das Obst — fruit
"Obst" is a collective, uncountable noun — like "fruit" in English it has no normal plural. You say "Ich esse Obst" (no article) for fruit in general. Stress the long "o": OHst.
Nom Das Obst ist frisch und gesund.
The fruit is fresh and healthy.
das Obst (neutrum) = fruit · frisch = fresh · gesund = healthy. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Obst is the subject.
Akk Ich kaufe das Obst auf dem Markt.
I buy the fruit at the market.
ich = I · kaufen = to buy · das Obst (neutrum) = fruit · der Markt = market. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Obst is the direct object.
Dat Der Kuchen ist mit dem Obst belegt.
The cake is topped with the fruit.
der Kuchen (maskulin) = cake · mit = with · das Obst (neutrum) = fruit. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit" (always Dativ).
der Apfel — apple
The plural is "Äpfel" — the umlaut change (a → ä) is very common with maskulin nouns. "An apple a day" works in German too: "Ein Apfel am Tag."
Nom Der Apfel ist rot und süß.
The apple is red and sweet.
der Apfel (maskulin) = apple · rot = red · süß = sweet. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Apfel is the subject.
Akk Ich esse den Apfel zum Frühstück.
I eat the apple for breakfast.
ich = I · essen = to eat · der Apfel (maskulin) = apple · das Frühstück = breakfast. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Apfel is the direct object.
Dat Die Kinder spielen mit dem Apfel.
The children play with the apple.
die Kinder (Plural) = children · spielen = to play · der Apfel (maskulin) = apple. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
die Banane — banana
Plural is "die Bananen" (add -n). Nearly the same word as English, just say the "a" sounds clearly: ba-NAH-ne. Germans love bananas in their müsli.
Nom Die Banane ist noch grün.
The banana is still green.
die Banane (feminin) = banana · noch = still · grün = green. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Banane is the subject.
Akk Sie schält die Banane.
She peels the banana.
sie = she · schälen = to peel · die Banane (feminin) = banana. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Banane is the direct object.
Dat Ich mache das Müsli mit der Banane.
I make the müsli with the banana.
das Müsli (neutrum) = müsli · machen = to make · die Banane (feminin) = banana. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
die Orange — orange
Plural is "die Orangen". Note the pronunciation is French-influenced: o-RAHNG-je. The same word also names the color orange in German.
Nom Die Orange ist sehr saftig.
The orange is very juicy.
die Orange (feminin) = orange · sehr = very · saftig = juicy. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Orange is the subject.
Akk Er presst die Orange.
He squeezes the orange.
er = he · pressen = to squeeze/press · die Orange (feminin) = orange. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Orange is the direct object.
Dat Der Saft kommt von der Orange.
The juice comes from the orange.
der Saft (maskulin) = juice · kommen von = to come from · die Orange (feminin) = orange. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "von" (always Dativ).
die Birne — pear
Plural is "die Birnen". Fun fact: "Birne" also means "light bulb" (Glühbirne) because of the shape. Context tells you which one!
Nom Die Birne ist weich und reif.
The pear is soft and ripe.
die Birne (feminin) = pear · weich = soft · reif = ripe. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Birne is the subject.
Akk Ich schneide die Birne in Stücke.
I cut the pear into pieces.
ich = I · schneiden = to cut · die Birne (feminin) = pear · das Stück = piece. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Birne is the direct object.
Dat Der Salat schmeckt gut mit der Birne.
The salad tastes good with the pear.
der Salat (maskulin) = salad · schmecken = to taste · die Birne (feminin) = pear. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
die Erdbeere — strawberry
Literally "earth berry" (Erde = earth + Beere = berry). Plural is "die Erdbeeren". Strawberry season in Germany starts in May, and you'll see red field-huts selling them everywhere.
Nom Die Erdbeere ist klein und rot.
The strawberry is small and red.
die Erdbeere (feminin) = strawberry · klein = small · rot = red. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Erdbeere is the subject.
Akk Das Kind isst die Erdbeere.
The child eats the strawberry.
das Kind = child · essen = to eat · die Erdbeere (feminin) = strawberry. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Erdbeere is the direct object.
Dat Ich mache eine Torte mit der Erdbeere.
I make a cake with the strawberry.
die Torte (feminin) = cake/tart · machen = to make · die Erdbeere (feminin) = strawberry. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
die Traube — grape
Usually used in the plural "die Trauben" since you eat a bunch. "Weintrauben" specifically means wine grapes. Germany's river valleys (Mosel, Rhein) are famous grape regions.
Nom Die Traube ist süß.
The grape is sweet.
die Traube (feminin) = grape · süß = sweet. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Traube is the subject.
Akk Ich wasche die Traube.
I wash the grape.
ich = I · waschen = to wash · die Traube (feminin) = grape. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Traube is the direct object.
Dat Der Wein kommt aus der Traube.
Wine comes from the grape.
der Wein (maskulin) = wine · kommen aus = to come from · die Traube (feminin) = grape. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "aus" (always Dativ).
das Gemüse — vegetables
Like "Obst", "Gemüse" is a singular collective noun — one word for all vegetables together. You'd say "Ich esse viel Gemüse" (I eat a lot of vegetables). No normal plural.
Nom Das Gemüse ist frisch vom Markt.
The vegetables are fresh from the market.
das Gemüse (neutrum) = vegetables · frisch = fresh · der Markt = market. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Gemüse is the subject.
Akk Wir kochen das Gemüse.
We cook the vegetables.
wir = we · kochen = to cook · das Gemüse (neutrum) = vegetables. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Gemüse is the direct object.
Dat Die Suppe ist mit dem Gemüse.
The soup is with the vegetables.
die Suppe (feminin) = soup · mit = with · das Gemüse (neutrum) = vegetables. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit".
die Gurke — cucumber
Plural "die Gurken". A pickled cucumber is a "Gewürzgurke" — a German lunchbox classic. Idiom: "Gurkenzeit" (cucumber time) means the slow news period in summer.
Nom Die Gurke ist lang und grün.
The cucumber is long and green.
die Gurke (feminin) = cucumber · lang = long · grün = green. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Gurke is the subject.
Akk Ich schneide die Gurke für den Salat.
I cut the cucumber for the salad.
ich = I · schneiden = to cut · die Gurke (feminin) = cucumber · der Salat = salad. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Gurke is the direct object.
Dat Das Brot schmeckt gut mit der Gurke.
The bread tastes good with the cucumber.
das Brot (neutrum) = bread · schmecken = to taste · die Gurke (feminin) = cucumber. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
die Kartoffel — potato
Plural "die Kartoffeln". A staple of German cuisine — Kartoffelsalat, Bratkartoffeln, Kartoffelpüree. Feminin despite ending in a consonant; many food nouns ending in -el are feminin.
Nom Die Kartoffel ist groß.
The potato is big.
die Kartoffel (feminin) = potato · groß = big. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Kartoffel is the subject.
Akk Ich koche die Kartoffel.
I cook the potato.
ich = I · kochen = to cook · die Kartoffel (feminin) = potato. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Kartoffel is the direct object.
Dat Wir machen einen Salat aus der Kartoffel.
We make a salad from the potato.
der Salat (maskulin) = salad · machen aus = to make from · die Kartoffel (feminin) = potato. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "aus".
die Tomate — tomato
Plural "die Tomaten". Pronounced to-MAH-te. Idiom: "Tomaten auf den Augen haben" (to have tomatoes on your eyes) means to not notice something obvious.
Nom Die Tomate ist rot und reif.
The tomato is red and ripe.
die Tomate (feminin) = tomato · rot = red · reif = ripe. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Tomate is the subject.
Akk Ich lege die Tomate auf das Brot.
I put the tomato on the bread.
ich = I · legen = to lay/put · die Tomate (feminin) = tomato · das Brot = bread. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Tomate is the direct object.
Dat Die Soße ist aus der Tomate.
The sauce is made from the tomato.
die Soße (feminin) = sauce · aus = from/out of · die Tomate (feminin) = tomato. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "aus".
die Zwiebel — onion
Plural "die Zwiebeln". Like Kartoffel, it ends in -el and is feminin. "Zwiebelsuppe" (onion soup) is a comforting winter dish.
Nom Die Zwiebel ist scharf.
The onion is pungent/sharp.
die Zwiebel (feminin) = onion · scharf = sharp/pungent. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Zwiebel is the subject.
Akk Er schneidet die Zwiebel.
He cuts the onion.
er = he · schneiden = to cut · die Zwiebel (feminin) = onion. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Zwiebel is the direct object.
Dat Das Fleisch schmeckt gut mit der Zwiebel.
The meat tastes good with the onion.
das Fleisch (neutrum) = meat · schmecken = to taste · die Zwiebel (feminin) = onion. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
der Salat — salad / lettuce
Plural "die Salate". One word covers both the leafy plant (lettuce) and the mixed dish (salad). A "grüner Salat" is a simple green salad.
Nom Der Salat ist frisch.
The salad is fresh.
der Salat (maskulin) = salad/lettuce · frisch = fresh. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Salat is the subject.
Akk Ich mache den Salat zum Abendessen.
I make the salad for dinner.
ich = I · machen = to make · der Salat (maskulin) = salad · das Abendessen = dinner. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Salat is the direct object.
Dat Auf dem Salat ist ein Dressing.
There is a dressing on the salad.
auf = on · der Salat (maskulin) = salad · das Dressing = dressing. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "auf" (location, no movement).
die Paprika — bell pepper
Plural "die Paprikas" (note the -s, unusual for German). "Paprika" is both the vegetable and the red spice powder. Comes in rot, gelb, and grün.
Nom Die Paprika ist rot.
The bell pepper is red.
die Paprika (feminin) = bell pepper · rot = red. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Paprika is the subject.
Akk Ich fülle die Paprika mit Reis.
I fill the bell pepper with rice.
ich = I · füllen = to fill · die Paprika (feminin) = bell pepper · der Reis = rice. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Paprika is the direct object.
Dat Die Pizza ist mit der Paprika belegt.
The pizza is topped with the bell pepper.
die Pizza (feminin) = pizza · belegen mit = to top with · die Paprika (feminin) = bell pepper. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
das Brot — bread
Germany has over 3,000 types of bread — more than any other country, and its "Brotkultur" is UNESCO-recognized. Plural is "die Brote". You'll find a Bäckerei on almost every corner.
Nom Das Brot ist frisch.
The bread is fresh.
das Brot (neutrum) = bread · frisch = fresh. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Brot is the subject.
Akk Ich kaufe das Brot in der Bäckerei.
I buy the bread at the bakery.
ich = I · kaufen = to buy · das Brot (neutrum) = bread · die Bäckerei = bakery. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Brot is the direct object.
Dat Er macht ein Sandwich mit dem Brot.
He makes a sandwich with the bread.
er = he · machen = to make · das Sandwich = sandwich · das Brot (neutrum) = bread. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit".
das Brötchen — bread roll
The "-chen" ending always makes a noun neutrum and means "little" — so Brötchen is literally "little bread". Plural stays "die Brötchen" (no change). Depending on the region it's also called Semmel or Schrippe.
Nom Das Brötchen ist knusprig.
The bread roll is crispy.
das Brötchen (neutrum) = bread roll · knusprig = crispy. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Any "-chen" word is neutrum. Brötchen is the subject.
Akk Ich esse das Brötchen zum Frühstück.
I eat the bread roll for breakfast.
ich = I · essen = to eat · das Brötchen (neutrum) = bread roll · das Frühstück = breakfast. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Brötchen is the direct object.
Dat Auf dem Brötchen ist Butter.
There is butter on the bread roll.
auf = on · das Brötchen (neutrum) = bread roll · die Butter = butter. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "auf" (location, no movement).
der Kuchen — cake
Plural stays "die Kuchen" (no change — nouns ending in -en often don't). "Kaffee und Kuchen" in the afternoon is a beloved German tradition, like British afternoon tea.
Nom Der Kuchen schmeckt süß.
The cake tastes sweet.
der Kuchen (maskulin) = cake · schmecken = to taste · süß = sweet. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Kuchen is the subject.
Akk Sie backt den Kuchen.
She bakes the cake.
sie = she · backen = to bake · der Kuchen (maskulin) = cake. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Kuchen is the direct object.
Dat Auf dem Kuchen sind Erdbeeren.
There are strawberries on the cake.
auf = on · der Kuchen (maskulin) = cake · die Erdbeeren = strawberries. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "auf" (location, no movement).
die Torte — tart / layered cake
Plural "die Torten". A "Torte" is fancier than a "Kuchen" — usually round, layered, and filled with cream. The world-famous "Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte" (Black Forest cake) is a Torte.
Nom Die Torte ist wunderschön.
The cake is beautiful.
die Torte (feminin) = tart/layered cake · wunderschön = beautiful. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Torte is the subject.
Akk Wir bestellen die Torte im Café.
We order the cake in the café.
wir = we · bestellen = to order · die Torte (feminin) = cake · das Café = café. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Torte is the direct object.
Dat Auf der Torte ist Sahne.
There is cream on the cake.
auf = on · die Torte (feminin) = cake · die Sahne = cream. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "auf" (location, no movement).
das Fleisch — meat
An uncountable noun — no plural. "Fleisch" covers all meat. Note: the "ei" is pronounced like English "eye", so it sounds like "flysh".
Nom Das Fleisch ist teuer.
The meat is expensive.
das Fleisch (neutrum) = meat · teuer = expensive. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Fleisch is the subject.
Akk Ich kaufe das Fleisch in der Metzgerei.
I buy the meat at the butcher shop.
ich = I · kaufen = to buy · das Fleisch (neutrum) = meat · die Metzgerei = butcher shop. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Fleisch is the direct object.
Dat Die Soße passt gut zu dem Fleisch.
The sauce goes well with the meat.
die Soße (feminin) = sauce · passen zu = to go with/suit · das Fleisch (neutrum) = meat. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "zu" (always Dativ).
die Wurst — sausage
Plural "die Würste" (umlaut change u → ü). Germany has hundreds of sausage types: Bratwurst, Currywurst, Weißwurst. Idiom: "Das ist mir Wurst" means "I don't care."
Nom Die Wurst ist lecker.
The sausage is delicious.
die Wurst (feminin) = sausage · lecker = delicious. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Wurst is the subject.
Akk Er grillt die Wurst.
He grills the sausage.
er = he · grillen = to grill · die Wurst (feminin) = sausage. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Wurst is the direct object.
Dat Das Brötchen ist mit der Wurst belegt.
The bread roll is topped with the sausage.
das Brötchen (neutrum) = bread roll · belegen mit = to top with · die Wurst (feminin) = sausage. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
das Hähnchen — chicken (to eat)
Again the "-chen" ending makes it neutrum; plural stays "die Hähnchen". This is chicken as food. The live animal is "das Huhn" or "der Hahn" (rooster). "Hähnchen" is a favorite at grills and street stands.
Nom Das Hähnchen ist im Ofen.
The chicken is in the oven.
das Hähnchen (neutrum) = chicken · der Ofen = oven. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ ("-chen" is always neutrum). Hähnchen is the subject.
Akk Wir essen das Hähnchen mit Pommes.
We eat the chicken with fries.
wir = we · essen = to eat · das Hähnchen (neutrum) = chicken · die Pommes = fries. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Hähnchen is the direct object.
Dat Der Reis passt gut zu dem Hähnchen.
The rice goes well with the chicken.
der Reis (maskulin) = rice · passen zu = to go with · das Hähnchen (neutrum) = chicken. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "zu".
der Schinken — ham
Plural stays "die Schinken". "Schwarzwälder Schinken" (Black Forest ham) is a famous smoked variety. Ends in -en, so it's maskulin and the plural doesn't change.
Nom Der Schinken ist salzig.
The ham is salty.
der Schinken (maskulin) = ham · salzig = salty. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Schinken is the subject.
Akk Ich lege den Schinken auf das Brot.
I put the ham on the bread.
ich = I · legen = to lay/put · der Schinken (maskulin) = ham · das Brot = bread. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Schinken is the direct object.
Dat Die Pizza ist mit dem Schinken belegt.
The pizza is topped with the ham.
die Pizza (feminin) = pizza · belegen mit = to top with · der Schinken (maskulin) = ham. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
die Butter — butter
Uncountable — no plural. In German, butter is feminin (unlike the -er ending you might expect to be maskulin). German butter is often unsalted by default.
Nom Die Butter ist weich.
The butter is soft.
die Butter (feminin) = butter · weich = soft. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Butter is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche die Butter für den Kuchen.
I need the butter for the cake.
ich = I · brauchen = to need · die Butter (feminin) = butter · der Kuchen = cake. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Butter is the direct object.
Dat Das Brötchen ist mit der Butter bestrichen.
The bread roll is spread with the butter.
das Brötchen (neutrum) = bread roll · bestreichen mit = to spread with · die Butter (feminin) = butter. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
der Käse — cheese
Uncountable — no normal plural. Idiom: "So ein Käse!" literally "Such a cheese!" means "What nonsense!" German cheeses include Gouda, Emmentaler, and Harzer.
Nom Der Käse riecht stark.
The cheese smells strong.
der Käse (maskulin) = cheese · riechen = to smell · stark = strong. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Käse is the subject.
Akk Ich kaufe den Käse im Supermarkt.
I buy the cheese at the supermarket.
ich = I · kaufen = to buy · der Käse (maskulin) = cheese · der Supermarkt = supermarket. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Käse is the direct object.
Dat Das Brot schmeckt gut mit dem Käse.
The bread tastes good with the cheese.
das Brot (neutrum) = bread · schmecken = to taste · der Käse (maskulin) = cheese. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
der Joghurt — yogurt
Plural "die Joghurts". Interestingly, some Germans also say "das Joghurt" — both der and das are accepted, but der is standard. A "Naturjoghurt" is plain, unsweetened yogurt.
Nom Der Joghurt ist im Kühlschrank.
The yogurt is in the fridge.
der Joghurt (maskulin) = yogurt · der Kühlschrank = fridge. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Joghurt is the subject.
Akk Ich esse den Joghurt mit Obst.
I eat the yogurt with fruit.
ich = I · essen = to eat · der Joghurt (maskulin) = yogurt · das Obst = fruit. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Joghurt is the direct object.
Dat In dem Joghurt sind Erdbeeren.
There are strawberries in the yogurt.
in = in · der Joghurt (maskulin) = yogurt · die Erdbeeren = strawberries. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" (location, no movement).
die Sahne — cream
Uncountable — no plural. "Schlagsahne" is whipped cream, a must-have on cake and hot chocolate. Order "mit Sahne" for the full German café experience.
Nom Die Sahne ist süß.
The cream is sweet.
die Sahne (feminin) = cream · süß = sweet. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Sahne is the subject.
Akk Ich schlage die Sahne.
I whip the cream.
ich = I · schlagen = to whip/beat · die Sahne (feminin) = cream. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Sahne is the direct object.
Dat Der Kaffee ist mit der Sahne.
The coffee is with the cream.
der Kaffee (maskulin) = coffee · mit = with · die Sahne (feminin) = cream. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
das Ei — egg
Plural "die Eier" (add -er, common for neutrum nouns). A soft-boiled breakfast egg ("Frühstücksei") in an egg cup is a German morning classic.
Nom Das Ei ist gekocht.
The egg is boiled.
das Ei (neutrum) = egg · gekocht = boiled/cooked. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Ei is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche das Ei für den Kuchen.
I need the egg for the cake.
ich = I · brauchen = to need · das Ei (neutrum) = egg · der Kuchen = cake. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Ei is the direct object.
Dat Der Salat ist mit dem Ei.
The salad is with the egg.
der Salat (maskulin) = salad · mit = with · das Ei (neutrum) = egg. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit".
der Reis — rice
Uncountable — no plural. Note it sounds exactly like English "rice". Not native to German cuisine but very common now, especially with curries and stir-fries.
Nom Der Reis ist fertig.
The rice is ready.
der Reis (maskulin) = rice · fertig = ready/done. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Reis is the subject.
Akk Ich koche den Reis.
I cook the rice.
ich = I · kochen = to cook · der Reis (maskulin) = rice. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Reis is the direct object.
Dat Das Hähnchen schmeckt gut mit dem Reis.
The chicken tastes good with the rice.
das Hähnchen (neutrum) = chicken · schmecken = to taste · der Reis (maskulin) = rice. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
die Nudel — noodle / pasta
Plural "die Nudeln" — and you almost always use the plural, since you eat many. Ends in -el like Kartoffel and Zwiebel, so it's feminin. "Nudeln" covers all pasta shapes.
Nom Die Nudel ist noch hart.
The noodle is still hard.
die Nudel (feminin) = noodle · noch = still · hart = hard. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Nudel is the subject.
Akk Ich koche die Nudel zehn Minuten.
I cook the noodle for ten minutes.
ich = I · kochen = to cook · die Nudel (feminin) = noodle · die Minute = minute. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Nudel is the direct object.
Dat Die Soße passt gut zu der Nudel.
The sauce goes well with the noodle.
die Soße (feminin) = sauce · passen zu = to go with · die Nudel (feminin) = noodle. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "zu".
der Zucker — sugar
Uncountable — no plural. The "z" is pronounced "ts": TSU-ker. "Zucker" also means "diabetes" in casual speech ("Er hat Zucker").
Nom Der Zucker ist weiß.
The sugar is white.
der Zucker (maskulin) = sugar · weiß = white. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Zucker is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche den Zucker für den Kuchen.
I need the sugar for the cake.
ich = I · brauchen = to need · der Zucker (maskulin) = sugar · der Kuchen = cake. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Zucker is the direct object.
Dat Der Tee ist mit dem Zucker süß.
The tea is sweet with the sugar.
der Tee (maskulin) = tea · mit = with · der Zucker (maskulin) = sugar · süß = sweet. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
das Salz — salt
Uncountable — no plural. Salt and pepper (Salz und Pfeffer) are the standard table pair. Idiom: "Salz in die Suppe bringen" means to add spice/excitement to something.
Nom Das Salz ist auf dem Tisch.
The salt is on the table.
das Salz (neutrum) = salt · der Tisch = table. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Salz is the subject.
Akk Kannst du mir das Salz geben?
Can you pass me the salt?
können = can · du = you · mir = to me · geben = to give · das Salz (neutrum) = salt. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Salz is the direct object (mir is the Dativ indirect object).
Dat Die Suppe schmeckt besser mit dem Salz.
The soup tastes better with the salt.
die Suppe (feminin) = soup · schmecken = to taste · besser = better · das Salz (neutrum) = salt. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit".
der Pfeffer — pepper (spice)
Uncountable — no plural. This is the spice, not the vegetable (that's Paprika). The "Pf" sound is very German: press your lips then blow. Idiom: "Geh hin, wo der Pfeffer wächst!" = "Get lost!"
Nom Der Pfeffer ist scharf.
The pepper is spicy.
der Pfeffer (maskulin) = pepper · scharf = spicy/sharp. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Pfeffer is the subject.
Akk Ich mag den Pfeffer nicht.
I don't like the pepper.
ich = I · mögen = to like · der Pfeffer (maskulin) = pepper · nicht = not. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Pfeffer is the direct object.
Dat Das Fleisch ist mit dem Pfeffer gewürzt.
The meat is seasoned with the pepper.
das Fleisch (neutrum) = meat · würzen mit = to season with · der Pfeffer (maskulin) = pepper. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
das Öl — oil
Plural "die Öle". "Olivenöl" (olive oil) and "Sonnenblumenöl" (sunflower oil) are kitchen staples. The "Ö" is a rounded vowel — say "eh" with rounded lips.
Nom Das Öl ist heiß.
The oil is hot.
das Öl (neutrum) = oil · heiß = hot. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Öl is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche das Öl zum Kochen.
I need the oil for cooking.
ich = I · brauchen = to need · das Öl (neutrum) = oil · kochen = to cook. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Öl is the direct object.
Dat Der Salat ist mit dem Öl angemacht.
The salad is dressed with the oil.
der Salat (maskulin) = salad · anmachen mit = to dress with · das Öl (neutrum) = oil. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit".
das Wasser — water
Uncountable in general use. In Germany, ordering "Wasser" in a restaurant usually means sparkling "Wasser mit Kohlensäure"; ask for "stilles Wasser" if you want it flat.
Nom Das Wasser ist kalt.
The water is cold.
das Wasser (neutrum) = water · kalt = cold. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Wasser is the subject.
Akk Ich trinke das Wasser.
I drink the water.
ich = I · trinken = to drink · das Wasser (neutrum) = water. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Wasser is the direct object.
Dat Ich koche die Nudeln in dem Wasser.
I cook the noodles in the water.
kochen = to cook · die Nudeln = noodles · in = in · das Wasser (neutrum) = water. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in" (location, no movement). Often shortened to "im Wasser".
der Saft — juice
Plural "die Säfte" (umlaut a → ä). "Apfelsaftschorle" (apple juice with sparkling water) is Germany's favorite refreshing drink.
Nom Der Saft ist süß.
The juice is sweet.
der Saft (maskulin) = juice · süß = sweet. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Saft is the subject.
Akk Ich trinke den Saft zum Frühstück.
I drink the juice for breakfast.
ich = I · trinken = to drink · der Saft (maskulin) = juice · das Frühstück = breakfast. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Saft is the direct object.
Dat In dem Saft ist viel Zucker.
There is a lot of sugar in the juice.
in = in · der Saft (maskulin) = juice · viel = a lot · der Zucker = sugar. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" (location, no movement).
der Kaffee — coffee
Usually uncountable, but "zwei Kaffee" (two coffees) is common when ordering. "Kaffee und Kuchen" is the classic German afternoon ritual. Stress the first syllable: KA-fee.
Nom Der Kaffee ist heiß.
The coffee is hot.
der Kaffee (maskulin) = coffee · heiß = hot. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Kaffee is the subject.
Akk Ich trinke den Kaffee schwarz.
I drink the coffee black.
ich = I · trinken = to drink · der Kaffee (maskulin) = coffee · schwarz = black. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Kaffee is the direct object.
Dat Ich beginne den Tag mit dem Kaffee.
I start the day with the coffee.
beginnen = to begin · der Tag = day · mit = with · der Kaffee (maskulin) = coffee. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
der Tee — tea
Plural "die Tees" (types of tea). East Frisia (Ostfriesland) has Germany's strongest tea culture — they drink more tea per person than anywhere in Europe.
Nom Der Tee ist noch heiß.
The tea is still hot.
der Tee (maskulin) = tea · noch = still · heiß = hot. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Tee is the subject.
Akk Am Abend trinke ich den Tee.
In the evening I drink the tea.
der Abend = evening · trinken = to drink · ich = I · der Tee (maskulin) = tea. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Tee is the direct object.
Dat In dem Tee ist Honig.
There is honey in the tea.
in = in · der Tee (maskulin) = tea · der Honig = honey. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" (location, no movement).
die Milch — milk
Uncountable — no plural. "Vollmilch" is whole milk, "fettarme Milch" is low-fat. The "ch" after "i" is a soft sound, like a whispered "h" — MILH.
Nom Die Milch ist frisch.
The milk is fresh.
die Milch (feminin) = milk · frisch = fresh. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Milch is the subject.
Akk Ich kaufe die Milch im Supermarkt.
I buy the milk at the supermarket.
ich = I · kaufen = to buy · die Milch (feminin) = milk · der Supermarkt = supermarket. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Milch is the direct object.
Dat Der Kaffee ist mit der Milch.
The coffee is with the milk.
der Kaffee (maskulin) = coffee · mit = with · die Milch (feminin) = milk. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
das Bier — beer
Plural "die Biere" (types of beer). Germany's "Reinheitsgebot" (purity law) from 1516 allows only water, malt, hops, and yeast. Ordering "ein Bier" gets you a local draught.
Nom Das Bier ist kalt.
The beer is cold.
das Bier (neutrum) = beer · kalt = cold. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Bier is the subject.
Akk Er trinkt das Bier im Biergarten.
He drinks the beer in the beer garden.
er = he · trinken = to drink · das Bier (neutrum) = beer · der Biergarten = beer garden. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Bier is the direct object.
Dat Mit dem Bier schmeckt die Bratwurst gut.
The sausage tastes good with the beer.
mit = with · das Bier (neutrum) = beer · schmecken = to taste · die Bratwurst = grilled sausage. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit".
der Wein — wine
Plural "die Weine" (types of wine). Germany is famous for its white wines, especially Riesling from the Mosel and Rhein valleys. "Rotwein" = red, "Weißwein" = white.
Nom Der Wein ist trocken.
The wine is dry.
der Wein (maskulin) = wine · trocken = dry. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Wein is the subject.
Akk Wir bestellen den Wein im Restaurant.
We order the wine in the restaurant.
wir = we · bestellen = to order · der Wein (maskulin) = wine · das Restaurant = restaurant. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Wein is the direct object.
Dat Das Fleisch passt gut zu dem Wein.
The meat goes well with the wine.
das Fleisch (neutrum) = meat · passen zu = to go with · der Wein (maskulin) = wine. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "zu".
die Bäckerei — bakery
Plural "die Bäckereien". Nouns ending in "-ei" are almost always feminin. From "backen" (to bake). A German bakery is a daily stop for fresh Brot and Brötchen.
Nom Die Bäckerei ist um die Ecke.
The bakery is around the corner.
die Bäckerei (feminin) = bakery · die Ecke = corner. "Die" — feminin Nominativ (nouns ending in -ei are feminin). Bäckerei is the subject.
Akk Ich suche die Bäckerei.
I am looking for the bakery.
ich = I · suchen = to look for · die Bäckerei (feminin) = bakery. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Bäckerei is the direct object.
Dat Ich kaufe das Brot in der Bäckerei.
I buy the bread at the bakery.
kaufen = to buy · das Brot = bread · in = in/at · die Bäckerei (feminin) = bakery. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" (location, no movement).
die Metzgerei — butcher shop
Plural "die Metzgereien". Also feminin (-ei ending). From "Metzger" (butcher). In northern Germany you may hear "Fleischerei" instead — same thing.
Nom Die Metzgerei ist geschlossen.
The butcher shop is closed.
die Metzgerei (feminin) = butcher shop · geschlossen = closed. "Die" — feminin Nominativ (-ei ending). Metzgerei is the subject.
Akk Ich finde die Metzgerei nicht.
I can't find the butcher shop.
ich = I · finden = to find · die Metzgerei (feminin) = butcher shop · nicht = not. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Metzgerei is the direct object.
Dat Ich kaufe die Wurst in der Metzgerei.
I buy the sausage at the butcher shop.
kaufen = to buy · die Wurst = sausage · in = in/at · die Metzgerei (feminin) = butcher shop. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" (location, no movement).
der Supermarkt — supermarket
Plural "die Supermärkte" (umlaut a → ä). Common German chains: Rewe, Edeka, Aldi, Lidl. Remember: they're closed on Sundays, so shop ahead!
Nom Der Supermarkt ist groß.
The supermarket is big.
der Supermarkt (maskulin) = supermarket · groß = big. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Supermarkt is the subject.
Akk Ich suche den Supermarkt.
I am looking for the supermarket.
ich = I · suchen = to look for · der Supermarkt (maskulin) = supermarket. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Supermarkt is the direct object.
Dat Ich kaufe alles in dem Supermarkt.
I buy everything at the supermarket.
kaufen = to buy · alles = everything · in = in/at · der Supermarkt (maskulin) = supermarket. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" (location, no movement). Often shortened to "im Supermarkt".
das Kilo — kilogram
Short for "das Kilogramm"; plural "die Kilos". At the market you'd say "ein Kilo Äpfel" (a kilo of apples). Note: no "von" — just the amount + noun.
Nom Das Kilo kostet zwei Euro.
The kilo costs two euros.
das Kilo (neutrum) = kilogram · kosten = to cost · der Euro = euro. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Kilo is the subject.
Akk Ich möchte ein Kilo Tomaten.
I would like a kilo of tomatoes.
ich = I · möchten = would like · das Kilo (neutrum) = kilogram · die Tomaten = tomatoes. "Ein" is neutrum Akkusativ (ein → ein, no change). Kilo is the direct object; "Tomaten" follows directly with no "von".
Dat Mit einem Kilo Mehl backe ich Brot.
With a kilo of flour I bake bread.
mit = with · das Kilo (neutrum) = kilogram · das Mehl = flour · backen = to bake. "Einem" because neutrum Dativ (ein → einem) after "mit".
das Gramm — gram
Plural stays "die Gramm" after numbers ("200 Gramm Käse"). Cold cuts and cheese at the counter are usually ordered by the 100 grams: "100 Gramm Schinken, bitte."
Nom Das Gramm ist eine kleine Einheit.
The gram is a small unit.
das Gramm (neutrum) = gram · klein = small · die Einheit = unit. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Gramm is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche 200 Gramm Käse.
I need 200 grams of cheese.
ich = I · brauchen = to need · das Gramm (neutrum) = gram · der Käse = cheese. After a number "Gramm" stays unchanged. It functions as the direct object (Akkusativ) of brauchen; "Käse" follows directly.
Dat Mit hundert Gramm Butter backe ich den Kuchen.
With a hundred grams of butter I bake the cake.
mit = with · hundert = hundred · das Gramm (neutrum) = gram · die Butter = butter · backen = to bake. The phrase stands after "mit" (always Dativ); "Gramm" itself doesn't change form after a number.
der Liter — liter
Plural stays "die Liter". Ends in -er, maskulin. Milk and juice come in 1-liter cartons ("ein Liter Milch"). At Oktoberfest, beer comes in a "Maß" — a full liter!
Nom Der Liter Milch kostet einen Euro.
The liter of milk costs one euro.
der Liter (maskulin) = liter · die Milch = milk · kosten = to cost · der Euro = euro. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Liter is the subject.
Akk Ich kaufe einen Liter Saft.
I buy a liter of juice.
ich = I · kaufen = to buy · der Liter (maskulin) = liter · der Saft = juice. "Einen" because maskulin Akkusativ (ein → einen). Liter is the direct object; "Saft" follows directly with no "von".
Dat Mit einem Liter Wasser koche ich die Nudeln.
With a liter of water I cook the noodles.
mit = with · der Liter (maskulin) = liter · das Wasser = water · kochen = to cook · die Nudeln = noodles. "Einem" because maskulin Dativ (ein → einem) after "mit".
die Packung — package / pack
Plural "die Packungen". Nouns ending in "-ung" are always feminin. Use it for a pack of noodles, cookies, etc.: "eine Packung Nudeln".
Nom Die Packung ist leer.
The package is empty.
die Packung (feminin) = package · leer = empty. "Die" — feminin Nominativ (nouns ending in -ung are feminin). Packung is the subject.
Akk Ich kaufe eine Packung Nudeln.
I buy a package of noodles.
ich = I · kaufen = to buy · die Packung (feminin) = package · die Nudeln = noodles. "Eine" stays "eine" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (eine → eine). Packung is the direct object.
Dat In der Packung sind zehn Eier.
There are ten eggs in the package.
in = in · die Packung (feminin) = package · zehn = ten · die Eier = eggs. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" (location, no movement).
das Stück — piece
Plural "die Stücke", but after numbers it stays "Stück" ("drei Stück"). Use it for counting individual items: "ein Stück Kuchen" (a piece of cake). "Stück für Stück" = piece by piece.
Nom Das Stück Kuchen ist groß.
The piece of cake is big.
das Stück (neutrum) = piece · der Kuchen = cake · groß = big. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Stück is the subject.
Akk Ich möchte ein Stück Torte.
I would like a piece of cake.
ich = I · möchten = would like · das Stück (neutrum) = piece · die Torte = cake. "Ein" stays "ein" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (ein → ein). Stück is the direct object.
Dat Mit einem Stück Brot bin ich zufrieden.
I am happy with a piece of bread.
mit = with · das Stück (neutrum) = piece · das Brot = bread · zufrieden = satisfied. "Einem" because neutrum Dativ (ein → einem) after "mit".
die Dose — can / tin
Plural "die Dosen". Used for canned goods and drink cans: "eine Dose Tomaten" (a can of tomatoes). Germany charges a "Dosenpfand" (can deposit) you get back when you return it.
Nom Die Dose ist aus Metall.
The can is made of metal.
die Dose (feminin) = can · das Metall = metal. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Dose is the subject.
Akk Ich öffne die Dose.
I open the can.
ich = I · öffnen = to open · die Dose (feminin) = can. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Dose is the direct object.
Dat In der Dose sind Tomaten.
There are tomatoes in the can.
in = in · die Dose (feminin) = can · die Tomaten = tomatoes. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" (location, no movement).
die Tüte — bag
Plural "die Tüten". A shopping or plastic bag. In Germany you usually pay for a "Tüte" at the checkout, so many people bring their own "Stofftasche" (cloth bag).
Nom Die Tüte ist schwer.
The bag is heavy.
die Tüte (feminin) = bag · schwer = heavy. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Tüte is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche eine Tüte für das Obst.
I need a bag for the fruit.
ich = I · brauchen = to need · die Tüte (feminin) = bag · das Obst = fruit. "Eine" stays "eine" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (eine → eine). Tüte is the direct object.
Dat In der Tüte ist das Gemüse.
The vegetables are in the bag.
in = in · die Tüte (feminin) = bag · das Gemüse = vegetables. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" (location, no movement).
kaufen — to buy
Regular verb: ich kaufe, du kaufst, er/sie kauft, wir kaufen, ihr kauft, sie kaufen. The thing you buy is the direct object (Akkusativ). "Einkaufen" (with ein-) means to go grocery shopping.
Nom Die Frau kauft gern.
The woman likes to buy/shop.
die Frau (feminin) = woman · kaufen = to buy · gern = gladly. Here "kauft" is conjugated for 3rd person singular (er/sie/es → -t). "Die Frau" is the subject in Nominativ.
Akk Ich kaufe den Käse.
I buy the cheese.
ich = I · kaufen = to buy · der Käse (maskulin) = cheese. "Kaufe" is the ich-form (-e ending). "Den Käse" is the direct object → maskulin Akkusativ (der → den).
Dat Ich kaufe der Mutter Blumen.
I buy the mother flowers.
ich = I · kaufen = to buy · die Mutter (feminin) = mother · die Blumen = flowers. "Der Mutter" is the indirect object (the receiver) → feminin Dativ (die → der). "Blumen" is the Akkusativ direct object.
brauchen — to need
Regular verb: ich brauche, du brauchst, er/sie braucht. What you need is in the Akkusativ. Very useful when shopping: "Ich brauche noch Milch" (I still need milk).
Nom Der Koch braucht viele Zutaten.
The cook needs many ingredients.
der Koch (maskulin) = cook · brauchen = to need · viele = many · die Zutaten = ingredients. "Braucht" is 3rd person singular (-t). "Der Koch" is the subject in Nominativ.
Akk Ich brauche das Öl.
I need the oil.
ich = I · brauchen = to need · das Öl (neutrum) = oil. "Brauche" is the ich-form. "Das Öl" is the direct object → neutrum Akkusativ (das → das, no change).
Dat Zum Backen brauche ich Mehl mit der Butter.
For baking I need flour with the butter.
backen = to bake · brauchen = to need · das Mehl = flour · mit = with · die Butter (feminin) = butter. "Der Butter" is Dativ (die → der) after "mit"; "Mehl" is the Akkusativ object of brauchen.
bekommen — to get / receive
Careful — this is a "false friend"! "bekommen" means to receive, NOT "to become" (that's "werden"). ich bekomme, du bekommst, er/sie bekommt. What you get is Akkusativ.
Nom Das Kind bekommt oft Süßigkeiten.
The child often gets sweets.
das Kind (neutrum) = child · bekommen = to get · oft = often · die Süßigkeiten = sweets. "Bekommt" is 3rd person singular (-t). "Das Kind" is the subject in Nominativ.
Akk Ich bekomme den Kaffee gratis.
I get the coffee for free.
ich = I · bekommen = to get · der Kaffee (maskulin) = coffee · gratis = free. "Bekomme" is the ich-form. "Den Kaffee" is the direct object → maskulin Akkusativ (der → den).
Dat Von der Verkäuferin bekomme ich eine Tüte.
I get a bag from the saleswoman.
von = from · die Verkäuferin (feminin) = saleswoman · bekommen = to get · die Tüte = bag. "Der Verkäuferin" is Dativ (die → der) after "von"; "eine Tüte" is the Akkusativ object.
bezahlen — to pay
Regular verb: ich bezahle, du bezahlst, er/sie bezahlt. You can also just say "zahlen". At a café, "Ich möchte bezahlen, bitte" means "I'd like to pay, please." Cash ("bar") is still king in Germany!
Nom Der Mann bezahlt an der Kasse.
The man pays at the checkout.
der Mann (maskulin) = man · bezahlen = to pay · die Kasse = checkout. "Bezahlt" is 3rd person singular (-t). "Der Mann" is the subject in Nominativ.
Akk Ich bezahle die Rechnung.
I pay the bill.
ich = I · bezahlen = to pay · die Rechnung (feminin) = bill. "Bezahle" is the ich-form. "Die Rechnung" is the direct object → feminin Akkusativ (die → die, no change).
Dat Ich bezahle mit der Karte.
I pay with the card.
ich = I · bezahlen = to pay · mit = with · die Karte (feminin) = card. "Der Karte" is Dativ (die → der) after "mit" (always Dativ).
wiegen — to weigh
ich wiege, du wiegst, er/sie wiegt. It works both ways: "Ich wiege das Obst" (I weigh the fruit, active) and "Das Obst wiegt ein Kilo" (the fruit weighs a kilo). At markets you often weigh produce yourself.
Nom Der Apfel wiegt 200 Gramm.
The apple weighs 200 grams.
der Apfel (maskulin) = apple · wiegen = to weigh · das Gramm = gram. "Wiegt" is 3rd person singular (-t). "Der Apfel" is the subject in Nominativ.
Akk Die Verkäuferin wiegt die Banane.
The saleswoman weighs the banana.
die Verkäuferin = saleswoman · wiegen = to weigh · die Banane (feminin) = banana. "Wiegt" is 3rd person singular. "Die Banane" is the direct object → feminin Akkusativ (die → die, no change).
Dat Ich wiege das Obst mit der Waage.
I weigh the fruit with the scale.
ich = I · wiegen = to weigh · das Obst = fruit · mit = with · die Waage (feminin) = scale. "Der Waage" is Dativ (die → der) after "mit"; "das Obst" is the Akkusativ object.
der Keks — biscuit / cookie
Plural: die Kekse. The word comes from English "cakes," borrowed as a singular. "Butterkeks" is the classic plain teatime biscuit found in every German pantry.
Nom Der Keks ist süß.
The biscuit is sweet.
der Keks (maskulin) = biscuit/cookie · süß = sweet. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Keks is the subject.
Akk Das Kind isst den Keks.
The child eats the biscuit.
das Kind = child · essen = to eat · der Keks (maskulin) = biscuit. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Keks is the direct object.
Dat Ich trinke Tee mit dem Keks.
I drink tea with the biscuit.
trinken = to drink · der Tee = tea · mit = with (always Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
das Würstchen — small sausage
Plural: die Würstchen (no change — "-chen" nouns don't add an ending). A "Würstchen" is smaller and usually boiled, like a hot dog sausage, distinct from a big grilling "Wurst". "Wiener Würstchen" is the classic version.
Nom Das Würstchen ist heiß.
The small sausage is hot.
das Würstchen (neutrum) = small sausage · heiß = hot. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ ("-chen" is always neutrum). Würstchen is the subject.
Akk Ich esse das Würstchen mit Senf.
I eat the small sausage with mustard.
essen = to eat · der Senf = mustard. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Würstchen is the direct object.
Dat Auf dem Würstchen ist Senf.
There is mustard on the small sausage.
auf = on · der Senf = mustard. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "auf" (location, no movement).
die Olive — olive
Plural: die Oliven. Not a native German crop but a common ingredient from Mediterranean cuisine, found on pizza, in salads, and at antipasti buffets.
Nom Die Olive ist grün.
The olive is green.
die Olive (feminin) = olive · grün = green. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Olive is the subject.
Akk Ich probiere die Olive.
I try the olive.
probieren = to try. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Olive is the direct object.
Dat Der Salat schmeckt gut mit der Olive.
The salad tastes good with the olive.
der Salat = salad · schmecken = to taste · mit = with (always Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
der Fisch — fish
Plural: die Fische. Popular varieties include Lachs (salmon) and Hering (herring). Coastal regions like Hamburg have a strong fish-eating tradition, with "Fischbrötchen" (fish rolls) sold at kiosks.
Nom Der Fisch ist frisch.
The fish is fresh.
der Fisch (maskulin) = fish · frisch = fresh. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Fisch is the subject.
Akk Ich kaufe den Fisch auf dem Markt.
I buy the fish at the market.
kaufen = to buy · der Markt = market. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Fisch is the direct object.
Dat Der Reis passt gut zu dem Fisch.
The rice goes well with the fish.
der Reis = rice · passen zu = to go with · zu = to (always Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "zu".
die Schokolade — chocolate
Plural: die Schokoladen (rare — usually treated as uncountable). Germans are among the world's biggest chocolate consumers per capita; "Schoki" is the affectionate short form.
Nom Die Schokolade ist süß.
The chocolate is sweet.
die Schokolade (feminin) = chocolate · süß = sweet. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Schokolade is the subject.
Akk Ich kaufe die Schokolade im Supermarkt.
I buy the chocolate at the supermarket.
kaufen = to buy · der Supermarkt = supermarket. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Schokolade is the direct object.
Dat Der Kuchen ist mit der Schokolade gemacht.
The cake is made with the chocolate.
der Kuchen = cake · mit = with (always Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
die Marmelade — jam
Plural: die Marmeladen. EU rules technically reserve "Marmelade" for citrus spreads and call others "Konfitüre," but in everyday German "Marmelade" covers jam of any fruit.
Nom Die Marmelade ist süß.
The jam is sweet.
die Marmelade (feminin) = jam · süß = sweet. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Marmelade is the subject.
Akk Ich streiche die Marmelade auf das Brötchen.
I spread the jam on the bread roll.
streichen = to spread · das Brötchen = bread roll. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Marmelade is the direct object.
Dat Das Brötchen ist mit der Marmelade bestrichen.
The bread roll is spread with the jam.
bestreichen mit = to spread with · mit = with (always Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
das Müsli — cereal / muesli
Plural: die Müslis. A Swiss invention (Bircher-Müsli), now a breakfast staple across German-speaking countries, usually mixed with Milch or Joghurt.
Nom Das Müsli ist gesund.
The muesli is healthy.
das Müsli (neutrum) = cereal/muesli · gesund = healthy. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Müsli is the subject.
Akk Ich esse das Müsli zum Frühstück.
I eat the muesli for breakfast.
essen = to eat · das Frühstück = breakfast. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Müsli is the direct object.
Dat Ich mache das Frühstück mit dem Müsli.
I make breakfast with the muesli.
machen = to make · das Frühstück = breakfast · mit = with (always Dativ). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit".
das Getränk — beverage / drink
Plural: die Getränke. The umbrella word for anything drinkable — Wasser, Saft, Kaffee are all "Getränke." Restaurant menus list a separate "Getränkekarte" (drinks menu).
Nom Das Getränk ist kalt.
The drink is cold.
das Getränk (neutrum) = beverage/drink · kalt = cold. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Getränk is the subject.
Akk Ich bestelle das Getränk.
I order the drink.
bestellen = to order. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Getränk is the direct object.
Dat Zu dem Getränk nehme ich einen Keks.
With the drink I have a biscuit.
zu = with/to (always Dativ) · der Keks = biscuit. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "zu". Often shortened to "zum Getränk".
die Limonade — lemonade
Plural: die Limonaden. Covers any sweet, flavored soft drink, not just lemon — "Limo" is the casual short form Germans use for Fanta, Sprite, and similar drinks.
Nom Die Limonade ist süß.
The lemonade is sweet.
die Limonade (feminin) = lemonade · süß = sweet. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Limonade is the subject.
Akk Ich trinke die Limonade.
I drink the lemonade.
trinken = to drink. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Limonade is the direct object.
Dat Ich mische das Wasser mit der Limonade.
I mix the water with the lemonade.
mischen = to mix · das Wasser = water · mit = with (always Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
die Cola — cola
Plural: die Colas. Feminin like most soft-drink names ending in -a. In everyday speech "Cola" often stands in for any cola-flavored soft drink, not just one brand.
Nom Die Cola ist kalt.
The cola is cold.
die Cola (feminin) = cola · kalt = cold. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Cola is the subject.
Akk Ich trinke die Cola.
I drink the cola.
trinken = to drink. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Cola is the direct object.
Dat Er füllt das Glas mit der Cola.
He fills the glass with the cola.
füllen = to fill · das Glas = glass · mit = with (always Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
der Markt — market
Plural: die Märkte (umlaut a → ä). A weekly open-air "Wochenmarkt" for fresh produce is common on town squares — different from a "Supermarkt" (indoor supermarket).
Nom Der Markt ist heute geöffnet.
The market is open today.
der Markt (maskulin) = market · heute = today · geöffnet = open. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Markt is the subject.
Akk Ich besuche den Markt am Samstag.
I visit the market on Saturday.
besuchen = to visit · der Samstag = Saturday. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Markt is the direct object.
Dat Ich kaufe Gemüse auf dem Markt.
I buy vegetables at the market.
kaufen = to buy · das Gemüse = vegetables · auf = at/on (location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "auf".
einkaufen — to shop
A separable verb: ich kaufe ein, du kaufst ein, er kauft ein. In a main clause the prefix "ein-" jumps to the end: "Ich kaufe samstags ein" (I shop on Saturdays). The perfect tense is "eingekauft".
Nom Die Mutter kauft samstags ein.
The mother shops on Saturdays.
die Mutter (feminin) = mother · einkaufen = to shop → kauft … ein (sie form, separable verb). "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Mutter is the subject.
Akk Ich kaufe das Obst ein.
I buy/shop for the fruit.
einkaufen = to shop (for) → kaufe … ein (ich form) · das Obst (neutrum) = fruit. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Obst is the direct object.
Dat Ich kaufe mit dem Einkaufswagen ein.
I shop with the shopping cart.
einkaufen = to shop → kaufe … ein (ich form) · der Einkaufswagen (maskulin) = shopping cart · mit = with (always Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
der Einkaufswagen — shopping cart
Plural: die Einkaufswagen (unchanged). Compound: einkaufen (to shop) + der Wagen (cart). In Germany you usually need a 1-euro coin or token to unlock one from the rack.
Nom Der Einkaufswagen ist voll.
The shopping cart is full.
der Einkaufswagen (maskulin) = shopping cart · voll = full. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Einkaufswagen is the subject.
Akk Ich schiebe den Einkaufswagen.
I push the shopping cart.
schieben = to push. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Einkaufswagen is the direct object.
Dat Das Obst liegt in dem Einkaufswagen.
The fruit is lying in the shopping cart.
liegen = to lie · das Obst = fruit · in = in (location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" showing location. Often shortened to "im Einkaufswagen".
Entschuldigung, wo finde ich …? — Excuse me, where do I find …?
The essential phrase for asking a shop assistant to locate an item. "Entschuldigung" softens the interruption; "finden" = to find, and the missing item slots in as an Akkusativ object at the end.
Nom Entschuldigung, wo finde ich …?, fragt der Kunde.
"Excuse me, where do I find …?" the customer asks.
Entschuldigung = excuse me · finden = to find · der Kunde (maskulin) = customer · fragen = to ask. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ; Kunde is the subject who asks.
Akk Entschuldigung, wo finde ich den Käse?
Excuse me, where do I find the cheese?
Entschuldigung = excuse me · finden = to find · der Käse (maskulin) = cheese. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Käse is the direct object being searched for.
Dat Entschuldigung, wo finde ich das Regal mit der Marmelade?
Excuse me, where do I find the shelf with the jam?
Entschuldigung = excuse me · das Regal = shelf · die Marmelade (feminin) = jam · mit = with (always Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
Wo gibt es …? — Where is there …?
Uses the impersonal "es gibt" (there is/are), which always takes an Akkusativ object — a common trap for beginners who expect Nominativ. "Wo gibt es …?" asks where to find something in general (a shop, a service), not a specific item on a shelf.
Nom Wo gibt es …?, fragt die Touristin.
"Where is there …?" the (female) tourist asks.
es gibt = there is/are · die Touristin (feminin) = female tourist · fragen = to ask. "Die" — feminin Nominativ; Touristin is the subject who asks.
Akk Wo gibt es einen Supermarkt?
Where is there a supermarket?
es gibt = there is/are (always + Akkusativ) · der Supermarkt (maskulin) = supermarket. "Einen" because maskulin Akkusativ (ein → einen). Supermarkt is the object of "es gibt".
Dat Wo gibt es Brot in der Nähe?
Where is there bread nearby?
es gibt = there is/are · das Brot = bread · die Nähe (feminin) = vicinity/nearness · in der Nähe = nearby (fixed Dativ phrase). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in".