Appearance
Netzwerk 4: Meals
Chapter 4 — meals, dishes, eating verbs, and food adjectives.
Maskulin Feminin Neutrum Plural
Was kostet...? — How much does... cost?
The single most useful shopping phrase. For one item use "Was kostet...?"; for plural items use "Was kosten...?". You can also ask "Wie viel kostet das?" — How much does that cost?
Nom Was kostet der Salat?
How much does the salad cost?
was = what/how much · kosten = to cost · der Salat (maskulin) = salad. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Salat is the subject doing the "costing", so it stays "der".
Akk Die Pizza kostet einen Euro.
The pizza costs one euro.
kosten = to cost · die Pizza = pizza · der Euro (maskulin) = euro. The price takes the Akkusativ (ein → einen): "kosten" uses an accusative of price. Einen Euro is the amount.
Dat Was kostet das Essen in dem Restaurant?
How much does the food cost in the restaurant?
das Essen = the food · in = in · das Restaurant (neutrum) = restaurant. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in" showing location. Often shortened to "im Restaurant".
der Preis — price
Plural: die Preise. In German shops the price shown always includes tax (Mehrwertsteuer), so the sticker price is what you actually pay — no surprise at the till.
Nom Der Preis ist gut.
The price is good.
der Preis (maskulin) = price · gut = good. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Preis is the subject.
Akk Ich finde den Preis zu hoch.
I find the price too high.
finden = to find/think · zu hoch = too high. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Preis is the direct object of finden.
Dat Bei dem Preis kaufe ich nicht.
At that price I won't buy.
bei = at/with (Dativ preposition) · kaufen = to buy. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "bei". Often shortened to "beim Preis".
teuer — expensive
Memory aid: "teuer" sounds a bit like "too your (wallet)". Note: when it takes an ending, the second "e" drops — "ein teurer Wein" (not teuerer).
Nom Der Wein ist teuer.
The wine is expensive.
der Wein (maskulin) = wine · teuer = expensive. Predicative use (after "ist") — the adjective takes NO ending. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ.
Akk Ich kaufe den teuren Wein nicht.
I'm not buying the expensive wine.
kaufen = to buy · der Wein (maskulin) = wine. Attributive Akkusativ: article der → den, and the adjective gets -en → "den teuren Wein" (the "e" of teuer drops before -en).
Dat Mit dem teuren Wein feiern wir.
With the expensive wine we celebrate.
mit = with (Dativ) · feiern = to celebrate. Attributive Dativ: article der → dem, adjective ending -en → "dem teuren Wein". Ending pattern: -∅ (predicative) → -en (Akk) → -en (Dat).
billig — cheap
"Billig" can imply cheap in a negative sense (poor quality) as well as low-priced. If you mean good value, "günstig" is the friendlier word.
Nom Die Suppe ist billig.
The soup is cheap.
die Suppe (feminin) = soup · billig = cheap. Predicative use (after "ist") — no ending. "Die" — feminin Nominativ.
Akk Wir bestellen die billige Suppe.
We order the cheap soup.
bestellen = to order · die Suppe (feminin) = soup. Attributive Akkusativ: feminin article stays die → die, adjective gets -e → "die billige Suppe".
Dat Bei der billigen Suppe spare ich Geld.
With the cheap soup I save money.
bei = with/at (Dativ) · sparen = to save · das Geld = money. Attributive Dativ: feminin die → der, adjective -en → "der billigen Suppe". Endings: -∅ → -e (Akk) → -en (Dat).
günstig — affordable, good value
The positive word for a good price. "Ein günstiges Angebot" is a good deal. Related noun: "die Gunst" (favour) — a günstig price does you a favour.
Nom Das Angebot ist günstig.
The offer is affordable.
das Angebot (neutrum) = offer · günstig = good value. Predicative — no ending. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ.
Akk Ich nehme das günstige Schnitzel.
I'll take the affordable schnitzel.
nehmen = to take (ich nehme) · das Schnitzel (neutrum) = schnitzel. Attributive Akkusativ: neutrum article das → das, adjective gets -e → "das günstige Schnitzel".
Dat Bei dem günstigen Preis kaufe ich sofort.
At the good price I buy immediately.
bei = at (Dativ) · der Preis (maskulin) = price · sofort = immediately. Attributive Dativ: maskulin der → dem, adjective -en → "dem günstigen Preis". Endings: -∅ → -e → -en.
kosten — to cost
Regular verb. The thing that costs is the subject; the price/amount that follows is in the Akkusativ ("Das kostet einen Euro"). Conjugation: es kostet, sie kosten.
Nom Die Pizza kostet acht Euro.
The pizza costs eight euros.
die Pizza (feminin) = pizza · kosten = to cost (sie kostet) · der Euro = euro. "Die" — feminin Nominativ; Pizza is the subject that does the costing.
Akk Das Essen kostet einen Euro mehr.
The food costs one euro more.
das Essen = the food · der Euro (maskulin) = euro · mehr = more. The amount is Akkusativ: ein → einen (maskulin der → den, so ein → einen). "einen Euro" is the object of kosten.
Dat Mit dem Rabatt kostet es weniger.
With the discount it costs less.
mit = with (Dativ) · der Rabatt (maskulin) = discount · weniger = less. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
das Sonderangebot — special offer
Plural: die Sonderangebote. Compound: sonder- (special) + das Angebot (offer). Look for "im Angebot" or "Sonderangebot" signs in supermarkets for the best deals.
Nom Das Sonderangebot ist heute gut.
The special offer is good today.
das Sonderangebot (neutrum) = special offer · heute = today · gut = good. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Sonderangebot is the subject.
Akk Ich nehme das Sonderangebot.
I'll take the special offer.
nehmen = to take (ich nehme) · das Sonderangebot (neutrum) = special offer. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). It is the direct object.
Dat Mit dem Sonderangebot spare ich zehn Euro.
With the special offer I save ten euros.
mit = with (Dativ) · sparen = to save · der Euro = euro. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit".
die Quittung — receipt
Plural: die Quittungen. At a till you can ask "Die Quittung, bitte." A "Kassenbon" or "Bon" means the same thing. Keep it for returns or expenses.
Nom Die Quittung liegt auf dem Tisch.
The receipt is lying on the table.
die Quittung (feminin) = receipt · liegen = to lie · der Tisch = table. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Quittung is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche die Quittung.
I need the receipt.
brauchen = to need · die Quittung (feminin) = receipt. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). It is the direct object of brauchen.
Dat Mit der Quittung gehe ich zum Umtausch.
With the receipt I go to make an exchange.
mit = with (Dativ) · der Umtausch = exchange (zum = zu dem). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
das Gericht — dish (food)
Plural: die Gerichte. Note: "Gericht" also means "court" (of law) — context makes it clear. On a menu, "Hauptgericht" is the main course.
Nom Das Gericht schmeckt lecker.
The dish tastes delicious.
das Gericht (neutrum) = dish · schmecken = to taste · lecker = delicious. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Gericht is the subject.
Akk Ich bestelle das Gericht.
I order the dish.
bestellen = to order · das Gericht (neutrum) = dish. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). It is the direct object.
Dat In dem Gericht ist viel Fleisch.
There is a lot of meat in the dish.
in = in (Dativ for location) · viel = a lot · das Fleisch = meat. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem). Often shortened to "im Gericht".
die Suppe — soup
Plural: die Suppen. Germans love their soups, from "Gulaschsuppe" to "Kürbissuppe" (pumpkin). A soup is eaten with "der Löffel" (spoon).
Nom Die Suppe ist heiß.
The soup is hot.
die Suppe (feminin) = soup · heiß = hot. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Suppe is the subject.
Akk Er isst die Suppe mit Brot.
He eats the soup with bread.
essen = to eat (er isst) · die Suppe (feminin) = soup · das Brot = bread. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). It is the direct object of essen.
Dat In der Suppe sind Nudeln.
There are noodles in the soup.
in = in (Dativ for location) · die Nudeln = noodles. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der). Suppe shows where the noodles are.
die Pizza — pizza
Plural: die Pizzas or die Pizzen. An Italian loanword but fully German in gender — feminin. Order it "mit extra Käse" (with extra cheese) if you like.
Nom Die Pizza ist groß.
The pizza is big.
die Pizza (feminin) = pizza · groß = big. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Pizza is the subject.
Akk Wir teilen die Pizza.
We share the pizza.
teilen = to share · die Pizza (feminin) = pizza · wir = we. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). It is the direct object.
Dat Auf der Pizza ist viel Käse.
There is a lot of cheese on the pizza.
auf = on (Dativ for location) · viel = a lot · der Käse = cheese. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der). Pizza shows where the cheese is.
der Salat — salad
Plural: die Salate. "Der grüne Salat" is a green/leaf salad; "der Kartoffelsalat" (potato salad) is a classic German side dish at barbecues.
Nom Der Salat ist frisch.
The salad is fresh.
der Salat (maskulin) = salad · frisch = fresh. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Salat is the subject.
Akk Ich esse den Salat.
I eat the salad.
essen = to eat (ich esse) · der Salat (maskulin) = salad. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Salat is the direct object of essen.
Dat In dem Salat sind Tomaten.
There are tomatoes in the salad.
in = in (Dativ for location) · die Tomaten = tomatoes. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem). Often shortened to "im Salat".
das Schnitzel — schnitzel
Plural: die Schnitzel (unchanged — words ending in -el usually don't add an ending). A "Wiener Schnitzel" is veal; a "Schnitzel Wiener Art" is pork. Served with fries or potato salad.
Nom Das Schnitzel ist groß.
The schnitzel is big.
das Schnitzel (neutrum) = schnitzel · groß = big. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Schnitzel is the subject.
Akk Ich bestelle das Schnitzel mit Pommes.
I order the schnitzel with fries.
bestellen = to order · das Schnitzel (neutrum) = schnitzel · die Pommes = fries. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). It is the direct object.
Dat Zu dem Schnitzel trinke ich Bier.
With the schnitzel I drink beer.
zu = with/to (Dativ) · trinken = to drink · das Bier = beer. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "zu". Often shortened to "zum Schnitzel".
das Frühstück — breakfast
Singular only (kein Plural). Germans take breakfast seriously: bread, cheese, cold cuts, eggs, coffee. Hotels advertise "Frühstück inklusive". Compound: früh (early) + Stück (piece).
Nom Das Frühstück ist wichtig.
Breakfast is important.
das Frühstück (neutrum) = breakfast · wichtig = important. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Frühstück is the subject.
Akk Wir nehmen das Frühstück im Hotel.
We have breakfast at the hotel.
nehmen = to take/have · im = in dem (in the) · das Hotel = hotel. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Frühstück is the direct object.
Dat Ich beginne den Tag mit dem Frühstück.
I start the day with breakfast.
beginnen = to begin · der Tag = the day. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit".
das Mittagessen — lunch
Plural: die Mittagessen (rare). Traditionally the main meal in Germany. Restaurants offer a cheaper "Mittagstisch" at midday. Compound: Mittag (midday) + Essen (food).
Nom Das Mittagessen schmeckt lecker.
The lunch tastes delicious.
das Mittagessen (neutrum) = lunch · schmecken = to taste · lecker = delicious. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Mittagessen is the subject.
Akk Er bestellt das Mittagessen.
He orders the lunch.
bestellen = to order · er = he. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Mittagessen is the direct object.
Dat Nach dem Mittagessen trinke ich Kaffee.
After lunch I drink coffee.
nach = after (Dativ preposition) · trinken = to drink · der Kaffee = coffee. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "nach".
das Abendessen — dinner
Plural: die Abendessen (rare). Often cold in Germany — bread, cheese, cold cuts — called "Abendbrot". Compound: Abend (evening) + Essen (food).
Nom Das Abendessen ist um 19 Uhr.
Dinner is at 7 PM.
das Abendessen (neutrum) = dinner · um = at (time) · 19 Uhr = 7 PM (Germans use 24-hour time). "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Abendessen is the subject.
Akk Sie macht das Abendessen.
She makes dinner.
machen = to make · sie = she. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Abendessen is the direct object.
Dat Vor dem Abendessen gehe ich spazieren.
Before dinner I go for a walk.
vor = before (Dativ preposition here) · gehen = to go · spazieren = to walk. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "vor".
frühstücken — to have breakfast
A regular verb made from the noun "das Frühstück". Conjugation: ich frühstücke, du frühstückst, er frühstückt. "Wir frühstücken um acht" — we have breakfast at eight.
Nom Die Familie frühstückt zusammen.
The family has breakfast together.
die Familie (feminin) = family · frühstücken = to have breakfast (sie frühstückt) · zusammen = together. "Die" — feminin Nominativ; Familie is the subject.
Akk Ich frühstücke ein Ei und Brot.
I have an egg and bread for breakfast.
das Ei (neutrum) = egg · das Brot = bread. "ein Ei" is Akkusativ: neutrum ein → ein (unchanged), the food eaten is the direct object.
Dat Mit der Familie frühstücke ich am Sonntag.
I have breakfast with the family on Sunday.
mit = with (Dativ) · die Familie (feminin) = family · der Sonntag = Sunday. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
essen, er isst — to eat
Irregular (stem-changing) verb: e → i. ich esse, du isst, er/sie isst, wir essen, ihr esst, sie essen. Note "du isst" and "er isst" look the same. The thing eaten is Akkusativ.
Nom Das Kind isst.
The child is eating.
das Kind (neutrum) = child · essen = to eat (es isst). "Das" — neutrum Nominativ; Kind is the subject who eats. No object here — just the eater.
Akk Ich esse den Salat.
I eat the salad.
essen = to eat (ich esse) · der Salat (maskulin) = salad. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Salat is the direct object being eaten.
Dat Er isst mit dem Löffel.
He eats with the spoon.
essen = to eat (er isst) · mit = with (Dativ) · der Löffel (maskulin) = spoon. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit" (the instrument).
trinken — to drink
Regular verb: ich trinke, du trinkst, er trinkt. The drink is in the Akkusativ. "Was trinkst du?" — What are you drinking? A very common café question.
Nom Der Mann trinkt.
The man is drinking.
der Mann (maskulin) = man · trinken = to drink (er trinkt). "Der" — maskulin Nominativ; Mann is the subject doing the drinking.
Akk Ich trinke einen Kaffee.
I drink a coffee.
trinken = to drink (ich trinke) · der Kaffee (maskulin) = coffee. "einen" because maskulin Akkusativ (ein → einen). Kaffee is the direct object being drunk.
Dat Nach dem Essen trinke ich Tee.
After the meal I drink tea.
nach = after (Dativ) · das Essen (neutrum) = meal/food · der Tee = tea. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "nach".
nehmen, er nimmt — to take
Irregular verb with a strong stem change: ich nehme, du nimmst, er/sie nimmt, wir nehmen. In restaurants "Ich nehme..." is the standard way to order ("I'll have...").
Nom Die Frau nimmt Platz.
The woman takes a seat.
die Frau (feminin) = woman · nehmen = to take (sie nimmt) · Platz nehmen = to take a seat (fixed phrase). "Die" — feminin Nominativ; Frau is the subject.
Akk Ich nehme den Salat.
I'll have the salad.
nehmen = to take (ich nehme) · der Salat (maskulin) = salad. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Salat is the direct object.
Dat Ich nehme das Essen zu der Party mit.
I'll take the food along to the party.
mitnehmen = to take along · zu = to (Dativ) · die Party (feminin) = party. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "zu". Often shortened to "zur Party".
schmecken — to taste (good)
Regular verb. The FOOD is the subject; the person who likes it is in the Dativ: "Die Suppe schmeckt mir" = I like the soup (lit. the soup tastes to me). "Schmeckt's?" — Is it tasting good?
Nom Das Essen schmeckt gut.
The food tastes good.
das Essen (neutrum) = food · schmecken = to taste · gut = good. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ; Essen is the subject that tastes.
Akk Ich probiere die Suppe — sie schmeckt.
I try the soup — it tastes good.
probieren = to try · die Suppe (feminin) = soup. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die); Suppe is the object of probieren, then the subject of schmeckt.
Dat Das Schnitzel schmeckt dem Kind.
The child likes the schnitzel.
das Schnitzel = schnitzel · das Kind (neutrum) = child. The person who enjoys is in the Dativ: "dem Kind" (das → dem). Schmecken always takes a Dativ for the person.
mögen — to like
Irregular modal verb: ich mag, du magst, er mag, wir mögen. "Ich mag Kaffee" = I like coffee. The thing you like is Akkusativ. Do not confuse with "möchten" (would like).
Nom Das Kind mag Schokolade.
The child likes chocolate.
das Kind (neutrum) = child · mögen = to like (es mag) · die Schokolade = chocolate. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ; Kind is the subject.
Akk Ich mag den Salat.
I like the salad.
mögen = to like (ich mag) · der Salat (maskulin) = salad. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Salat is the direct object I like.
Dat Von der Pizza mag ich nur eine Hälfte.
Of the pizza I only like one half.
von = of/from (Dativ) · die Pizza (feminin) = pizza · die Hälfte = half. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "von".
möchten — would like
The polite ordering verb — technically the subjunctive of "mögen". ich möchte, du möchtest, er möchte, wir möchten. "Ich möchte einen Kaffee, bitte" is the courteous way to order.
Nom Der Gast möchte bestellen.
The guest would like to order.
der Gast (maskulin) = guest · möchten = would like (er möchte) · bestellen = to order. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ; Gast is the subject.
Akk Ich möchte die Suppe.
I would like the soup.
möchten = would like (ich möchte) · die Suppe (feminin) = soup. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Suppe is the direct object.
Dat Ich möchte den Kaffee mit der Milch.
I would like the coffee with the milk.
mit = with (Dativ) · die Milch (feminin) = milk · der Kaffee = coffee. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
bestellen — to order
Regular verb: ich bestelle, du bestellst, er bestellt. Used for ordering food, drinks, or goods online. What you order is Akkusativ. "Haben Sie schon bestellt?" — Have you ordered yet?
Nom Die Frau bestellt.
The woman is ordering.
die Frau (feminin) = woman · bestellen = to order (sie bestellt). "Die" — feminin Nominativ; Frau is the subject.
Akk Ich bestelle den Salat.
I order the salad.
bestellen = to order (ich bestelle) · der Salat (maskulin) = salad. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Salat is the direct object.
Dat Bei dem Kellner bestelle ich das Essen.
I order the food from the waiter.
bei = at/from (Dativ) · der Kellner (maskulin) = waiter · das Essen = food. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "bei". Often shortened to "beim Kellner".
bringen — to bring
Regular in the present: ich bringe, du bringst, er bringt. Often used with a Dativ (the person) and an Akkusativ (the thing): "Bringen Sie mir bitte die Rechnung" — Please bring me the bill.
Nom Der Kellner bringt das Essen.
The waiter brings the food.
der Kellner (maskulin) = waiter · bringen = to bring (er bringt) · das Essen = food. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ; Kellner is the subject.
Akk Er bringt die Suppe.
He brings the soup.
bringen = to bring (er bringt) · die Suppe (feminin) = soup. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Suppe is the thing brought (direct object).
Dat Der Kellner bringt dem Gast den Kaffee.
The waiter brings the guest the coffee.
der Gast (maskulin) = guest · der Kaffee = coffee. The receiver is Dativ: "dem Gast" (der → dem), the thing brought is Akkusativ "den Kaffee". Classic give/bring pattern: Dativ person + Akkusativ thing.
probieren — to try, to taste
Regular verb: ich probiere, du probierst, er probiert. Use it to sample food or try something new. "Probier mal!" — Give it a try! What you try is Akkusativ.
Nom Das Kind probiert gern.
The child likes to try things.
das Kind (neutrum) = child · probieren = to try (es probiert) · gern = gladly. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ; Kind is the subject.
Akk Ich probiere den Wein.
I try the wine.
probieren = to try (ich probiere) · der Wein (maskulin) = wine. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Wein is the direct object being tasted.
Dat Von der Suppe probiere ich einen Löffel.
I try a spoonful of the soup.
von = of/from (Dativ) · die Suppe (feminin) = soup · der Löffel = spoon(ful). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "von".
der Morgen — morning
Plural: die Morgen. "Guten Morgen!" = Good morning! Do not confuse with "morgen" (lowercase = tomorrow). "Am Morgen" means in the morning.
Nom Der Morgen ist schön.
The morning is beautiful.
der Morgen (maskulin) = morning · schön = beautiful. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Morgen is the subject.
Akk Ich mag den Morgen.
I like the morning.
mögen = to like (ich mag) · der Morgen (maskulin) = morning. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Morgen is the direct object.
Dat An dem Morgen trinke ich Kaffee.
In the morning I drink coffee.
an = on/in (Dativ for time) · trinken = to drink · der Kaffee = coffee. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem). "an dem" shortens to "am Morgen".
der Mittag — midday, noon
Plural: die Mittage. "Am Mittag" = at noon. Compound base for "Mittagessen" (lunch) and "Mittagspause" (lunch break). Midday is around 12 o'clock.
Nom Der Mittag ist warm.
The midday is warm.
der Mittag (maskulin) = midday · warm = warm. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Mittag is the subject.
Akk Ich habe den Mittag frei.
I have the midday off.
haben = to have (ich habe) · frei = free/off · der Mittag (maskulin) = midday. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Mittag is the direct object.
Dat An dem Mittag esse ich warm.
At midday I eat a warm meal.
an = at (Dativ for time) · essen = to eat (ich esse) · warm = warm. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem). "an dem" shortens to "am Mittag".
der Nachmittag — afternoon
Plural: die Nachmittage. Compound: nach (after) + Mittag (midday). "Am Nachmittag" = in the afternoon — often coffee-and-cake time ("Kaffee und Kuchen").
Nom Der Nachmittag ist lang.
The afternoon is long.
der Nachmittag (maskulin) = afternoon · lang = long. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Nachmittag is the subject.
Akk Wir verbringen den Nachmittag im Café.
We spend the afternoon in the café.
verbringen = to spend (time) · das Café = café · im = in dem. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Nachmittag is the direct object.
Dat An dem Nachmittag trinken wir Kaffee.
In the afternoon we drink coffee.
an = in (Dativ for time) · trinken = to drink · der Kaffee = coffee. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem). "an dem" shortens to "am Nachmittag".
der Abend — evening
Plural: die Abende. "Guten Abend!" = Good evening! "Am Abend" = in the evening. Base for "Abendessen" (dinner) and "Abendbrot" (evening bread).
Nom Der Abend ist ruhig.
The evening is quiet.
der Abend (maskulin) = evening · ruhig = quiet. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Abend is the subject.
Akk Ich genieße den Abend.
I enjoy the evening.
genießen = to enjoy · der Abend (maskulin) = evening. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Abend is the direct object.
Dat An dem Abend essen wir zusammen.
In the evening we eat together.
an = in (Dativ for time) · essen = to eat · zusammen = together. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem). "an dem" shortens to "am Abend".
die Nacht — night
Plural: die Nächte (umlaut a → ä). "Gute Nacht!" = Good night! "In der Nacht" = during the night. "Nachts" means at night (adverb).
Nom Die Nacht ist dunkel.
The night is dark.
die Nacht (feminin) = night · dunkel = dark. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Nacht is the subject.
Akk Ich arbeite die ganze Nacht.
I work the whole night.
arbeiten = to work · ganz = whole · die Nacht (feminin) = night. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die); the adjective takes -e → "die ganze Nacht" (a time span in Akkusativ).
Dat In der Nacht schlafe ich gut.
At night I sleep well.
in = in/during (Dativ for time) · schlafen = to sleep (ich schlafe) · gut = well. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der).
morgens — in the morning(s)
An adverb of habitual time: something you do every morning. The -s ending on a time word makes it a repeated-time adverb (compare "abends", "nachts"). It never takes an article.
Nom Der Kaffee schmeckt morgens am besten.
Coffee tastes best in the mornings.
morgens = in the mornings (adverb) · der Kaffee (maskulin) = coffee · am besten = best. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ; Kaffee is the subject. "morgens" just adds the time, no article.
Akk Morgens esse ich ein Brötchen.
In the mornings I eat a bread roll.
morgens = in the mornings · essen = to eat (ich esse) · das Brötchen (neutrum) = bread roll. "ein Brötchen" is Akkusativ (neutrum ein → ein) — the direct object.
Dat Morgens gehe ich mit dem Hund spazieren.
In the mornings I walk the dog.
morgens = in the mornings · mit = with (Dativ) · der Hund (maskulin) = dog. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
abends — in the evening(s)
Adverb of habitual time, formed from "Abend" + -s. Means something done every evening. No article. Compare: "am Abend" (one specific evening) vs "abends" (evenings in general).
Nom Die Stadt ist abends schön.
The city is beautiful in the evenings.
abends = in the evenings (adverb) · die Stadt (feminin) = city · schön = beautiful. "Die" — feminin Nominativ; Stadt is the subject. "abends" adds time, no article.
Akk Abends esse ich einen Salat.
In the evenings I eat a salad.
abends = in the evenings · essen = to eat (ich esse) · der Salat (maskulin) = salad. "einen" because maskulin Akkusativ (ein → einen). Salat is the direct object.
Dat Abends sitze ich vor dem Fernseher.
In the evenings I sit in front of the TV.
abends = in the evenings · sitzen = to sit · vor = in front of (Dativ for location) · der Fernseher (maskulin) = TV. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "vor".
lecker — delicious, tasty
The everyday word for tasty food. You'll hear "Lecker!" as an exclamation and "Das sieht lecker aus!" (that looks delicious). Works predicatively and attributively.
Nom Die Pizza ist lecker.
The pizza is delicious.
die Pizza (feminin) = pizza · lecker = delicious. Predicative (after "ist") — no ending. "Die" — feminin Nominativ.
Akk Ich esse den leckeren Salat.
I eat the delicious salad.
essen = to eat · der Salat (maskulin) = salad. Attributive Akkusativ: der → den, adjective -en → "den leckeren Salat".
Dat Mit dem leckeren Essen feiern wir.
With the delicious food we celebrate.
mit = with (Dativ) · das Essen (neutrum) = food · feiern = to celebrate. Attributive Dativ: das → dem, adjective -en → "dem leckeren Essen". Endings: -∅ → -en (Akk) → -en (Dat).
süß — sweet
Used for taste ("sweet") and also for "cute" ("Das Baby ist süß"). The ß is a double-s sound. Opposite in taste: "sauer" (sour) or "salzig" (salty).
Nom Der Kuchen ist süß.
The cake is sweet.
der Kuchen (maskulin) = cake · süß = sweet. Predicative (after "ist") — no ending. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ.
Akk Ich mag den süßen Kuchen.
I like the sweet cake.
mögen = to like (ich mag) · der Kuchen (maskulin) = cake. Attributive Akkusativ: der → den, adjective -en → "den süßen Kuchen".
Dat Nach dem süßen Nachtisch trinke ich Tee.
After the sweet dessert I drink tea.
nach = after (Dativ) · der Nachtisch (maskulin) = dessert · der Tee = tea. Attributive Dativ: der → dem, adjective -en → "dem süßen Nachtisch". Endings: -∅ → -en → -en.
frisch — fresh
Used for food ("frisches Brot") and also weather ("Es ist frisch draußen" — it's chilly outside). German bakeries pride themselves on selling "frische Brötchen" every morning.
Nom Das Brot ist frisch.
The bread is fresh.
das Brot (neutrum) = bread · frisch = fresh. Predicative (after "ist") — no ending. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ.
Akk Ich kaufe das frische Brot.
I buy the fresh bread.
kaufen = to buy · das Brot (neutrum) = bread. Attributive Akkusativ: neutrum das → das, adjective -e → "das frische Brot".
Dat Mit dem frischen Brot mache ich ein Sandwich.
With the fresh bread I make a sandwich.
mit = with (Dativ) · das Brot (neutrum) = bread · das Sandwich = sandwich. Attributive Dativ: das → dem, adjective -en → "dem frischen Brot". Endings: -∅ → -e (Akk) → -en (Dat).
gesund — healthy
For food that is good for you and for people who are well ("Ich bin wieder gesund" — I'm healthy again). Opposite: "ungesund" (unhealthy) or "krank" (sick). Comparative gets an umlaut: gesünder.
Nom Der Salat ist gesund.
The salad is healthy.
der Salat (maskulin) = salad · gesund = healthy. Predicative (after "ist") — no ending. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ.
Akk Ich esse das gesunde Gemüse.
I eat the healthy vegetables.
essen = to eat · das Gemüse (neutrum) = vegetables. Attributive Akkusativ: neutrum das → das, adjective -e → "das gesunde Gemüse".
Dat Mit dem gesunden Essen fühle ich mich gut.
With the healthy food I feel good.
mit = with (Dativ) · das Essen (neutrum) = food · sich fühlen = to feel. Attributive Dativ: das → dem, adjective -en → "dem gesunden Essen". Endings: -∅ → -e → -en.
wichtig — important
A very common everyday adjective. "Das ist wichtig" = that's important. "Wichtig für die Gesundheit" — important for health. Works predicatively and attributively.
Nom Das Frühstück ist wichtig.
Breakfast is important.
das Frühstück (neutrum) = breakfast · wichtig = important. Predicative (after "ist") — no ending. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ.
Akk Ich habe einen wichtigen Termin.
I have an important appointment.
haben = to have (ich habe) · der Termin (maskulin) = appointment. Attributive Akkusativ: maskulin ein → einen, adjective -en → "einen wichtigen Termin".
Dat Vor dem wichtigen Termin frühstücke ich gut.
Before the important appointment I eat a good breakfast.
vor = before (Dativ) · der Termin (maskulin) = appointment · frühstücken = to have breakfast. Attributive Dativ: der → dem, adjective -en → "dem wichtigen Termin". Endings: -∅ → -en → -en.
satt — full (after eating)
The word for pleasantly full after a meal: "Ich bin satt." — I've had enough / I'm full. Opposite of "hungrig". Mostly used predicatively (after sein/werden).
Nom Das Kind ist satt.
The child is full.
das Kind (neutrum) = child · satt = full. Predicative (after "ist") — no ending. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ; Kind is the subject.
Akk Die Suppe macht mich satt.
The soup fills me up.
die Suppe (feminin) = soup · machen = to make · mich = me (Akkusativ of ich). "Die" — feminin Nominativ subject; "mich" is the Akkusativ object made satt.
Dat Nach dem Essen bin ich satt.
After the meal I am full.
nach = after (Dativ) · das Essen (neutrum) = meal · satt = full. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "nach".
hungrig — hungry
"Ich bin hungrig" = I'm hungry, though Germans very often say "Ich habe Hunger" (I have hunger). Opposite of "satt". Formed from the noun "der Hunger" + -ig.
Nom Der Mann ist hungrig.
The man is hungry.
der Mann (maskulin) = man · hungrig = hungry. Predicative (after "ist") — no ending. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ; Mann is the subject.
Akk Ich sehe das hungrige Kind.
I see the hungry child.
sehen = to see (ich sehe) · das Kind (neutrum) = child. Attributive Akkusativ: neutrum das → das, adjective -e → "das hungrige Kind".
Dat Ich gebe dem hungrigen Kind ein Brot.
I give the hungry child a piece of bread.
geben = to give (ich gebe) · das Kind (neutrum) = child · das Brot = bread. Attributive Dativ (the receiver): das → dem, adjective -en → "dem hungrigen Kind". Endings: -∅ → -e → -en.
durstig — thirsty
"Ich bin durstig", though Germans often say "Ich habe Durst" (I have thirst). Formed from "der Durst" (thirst) + -ig. Pairs naturally with "hungrig".
Nom Das Kind ist durstig.
The child is thirsty.
das Kind (neutrum) = child · durstig = thirsty. Predicative (after "ist") — no ending. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ; Kind is the subject.
Akk Ich sehe den durstigen Hund.
I see the thirsty dog.
sehen = to see (ich sehe) · der Hund (maskulin) = dog. Attributive Akkusativ: der → den, adjective -en → "den durstigen Hund".
Dat Ich gebe dem durstigen Hund Wasser.
I give the thirsty dog water.
geben = to give (ich gebe) · der Hund (maskulin) = dog · das Wasser = water. Attributive Dativ (the receiver): der → dem, adjective -en → "dem durstigen Hund". Endings: -∅ → -en → -en.
Das macht … Euro, bitte. — That comes to … euros, please.
What a cashier says when announcing the total. "Machen" here means "to amount to," not "to make." The number before "Euro" is what you owe — get comfortable hearing numbers fast at the till!
Nom Das macht … Euro, bitte, sagt die Kassiererin.
"That comes to … euros, please," says the (female) cashier.
machen = to amount to · die Kassiererin (feminin) = female cashier · sagen = to say. "Die" — feminin Nominativ; Kassiererin is the subject.
Akk Ich höre "Das macht … Euro, bitte" und bezahle den Betrag.
I hear "That comes to … euros, please" and pay the amount.
hören = to hear · bezahlen = to pay · der Betrag (maskulin) = amount. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Betrag is the direct object being paid.
Dat Nach "Das macht … Euro, bitte" zahle ich mit der Karte.
After "That comes to … euros, please" I pay with the card.
nach = after (always Dativ) · zahlen = to pay · die Karte (feminin) = card · mit = with (always Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
der Kassenzettel — receipt
Plural: die Kassenzettel (unchanged). Compound: die Kasse (till/checkout) + der Zettel (slip of paper) — literally "till slip." "Die Quittung" is a near-synonym, but "Kassenzettel" specifically means the printed receipt from a till.
Nom Der Kassenzettel ist lang.
The receipt is long.
der Kassenzettel (maskulin) = receipt · lang = long. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Kassenzettel is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche den Kassenzettel für den Umtausch.
I need the receipt for the exchange.
brauchen = to need · der Umtausch = exchange. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Kassenzettel is the direct object.
Dat Mit dem Kassenzettel gehe ich zur Kasse zurück.
With the receipt I go back to the checkout.
mit = with (always Dativ) · die Kasse = checkout · zurückgehen = to go back. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
wechseln — to change / exchange (money)
Regular verb: ich wechsle, du wechselst, er wechselt. Used for breaking a large bill into smaller change or exchanging currency. Don't confuse with "ändern" (to change/alter something's nature).
Nom Der Kassierer wechselt schnell.
The cashier makes change quickly.
der Kassierer (maskulin) = cashier · wechseln = to change/exchange (er wechselt) · schnell = quickly. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Kassierer is the subject.
Akk Ich wechsle den Schein.
I break the bill (into change).
wechseln = to change (ich wechsle) · der Schein (maskulin) = banknote/bill. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Schein is the direct object.
Dat Ich bezahle mit dem Geld und wechsle es.
I pay with the money and get it changed.
bezahlen = to pay · das Geld (neutrum) = money · mit = with (always Dativ). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit".
Können Sie wechseln, bitte? — Can you give change, please?
A polite request when you only have a large bill. Note the word order: the modal "können" sits in position 2, and "wechseln" jumps to the end — the standard German verb-final rule for modal constructions.
Nom Können Sie wechseln, bitte?, fragt der Gast.
"Can you give change, please?" the guest asks.
können = can (modal) · wechseln = to change · der Gast (maskulin) = guest · fragen = to ask. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ; Gast is the subject.
Akk Können Sie wechseln, bitte? Ich habe nur den großen Schein.
Can you give change, please? I only have the big bill.
können = can · wechseln = to change · der Schein (maskulin) = banknote. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Schein is the direct object of "habe".
Dat Können Sie wechseln, bitte? Ich zahle mit dem Geld.
Can you give change, please? I'm paying with the money.
können = can · zahlen = to pay · das Geld (neutrum) = money · mit = with (always Dativ). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit".
Guten Appetit! — Enjoy your meal!
Said before eating, to everyone at the table — even strangers in a shared restaurant. Like "Guten Morgen," "Guten" is the Akkusativ form of "gut," short for "Ich wünsche Ihnen einen guten Appetit."
Nom Guten Appetit!, sagt der Kellner.
"Enjoy your meal!" says the waiter.
der Kellner (maskulin) = waiter · sagen = to say. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ; Kellner is the subject.
Akk Guten Appetit! Ich bringe die Suppe.
Enjoy your meal! I'll bring the soup.
bringen = to bring · die Suppe (feminin) = soup. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Suppe is the direct object.
Dat Guten Appetit! Wir essen mit dem Löffel.
Enjoy your meal! We eat with the spoon.
essen = to eat · der Löffel (maskulin) = spoon · mit = with (always Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
Danke, gleichfalls. — Thanks, likewise.
The standard reply to "Guten Appetit!" — "gleichfalls" means "the same to you" and works for other well-wishes too, like "Schönes Wochenende!" (Have a nice weekend!) → "Danke, gleichfalls."
Nom Danke, gleichfalls, antwortet die Gästin.
"Thanks, likewise," the (female) guest replies.
die Gästin (feminin) = female guest · antworten = to reply. "Die" — feminin Nominativ; Gästin is the subject.
Akk Danke, gleichfalls. Ich esse das Gericht jetzt.
Thanks, likewise. I'm eating the dish now.
essen = to eat · das Gericht (neutrum) = dish · jetzt = now. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Gericht is the direct object.
Dat Danke, gleichfalls. Wir sitzen an dem Tisch.
Thanks, likewise. We're sitting at the table.
sitzen = to sit · der Tisch (maskulin) = table · an = at (location, Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "an". Often shortened to "am Tisch".
das Essen — food / meal
Plural: die Essen (rare). This is the noun made from the verb "essen" (to eat) — grammatically it's just the infinitive used as a neuter noun, a common German pattern. Don't confuse it with "essen, er isst" (the verb "to eat").
Nom Das Essen ist fertig.
The food is ready.
das Essen (neutrum) = food/meal · fertig = ready. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Essen is the subject.
Akk Der Kellner bringt das Essen.
The waiter brings the food.
der Kellner = waiter · bringen = to bring. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Essen is the direct object.
Dat Nach dem Essen trinken wir Kaffee.
After the meal we drink coffee.
nach = after (always Dativ) · trinken = to drink · der Kaffee = coffee. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "nach".
fertig — ready / done
A predicate adjective used constantly in daily life: "Bist du fertig?" (Are you ready/done?). "Das Essen ist gleich fertig" (The food is almost ready) is a phrase you'll hear at every mealtime.
Nom Das Essen ist gleich fertig.
The food is almost ready.
das Essen (neutrum) = food · gleich = soon/almost · fertig = ready/done. Predicative use (after "ist") — no ending. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ.
Akk Ich mache die Suppe fertig.
I'm finishing (getting ready) the soup.
fertig machen = to finish/prepare · die Suppe (feminin) = soup. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Suppe is the direct object.
Dat Nach dem Kochen bin ich fertig.
After cooking I am done.
nach = after (always Dativ) · das Kochen (neutrum, infinitive used as noun) = cooking. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "nach".
die Pommes frites — french fries
Plural-only noun, often shortened to just "die Pommes" in speech. Borrowed from French, but firmly part of German fast-food culture — served "mit Mayo" or "mit Ketchup," or both ("Pommes Schranke").
Nom Die Pommes frites sind heiß.
The french fries are hot.
die Pommes frites (Plural) = french fries · heiß = hot. "Die" — Plural Nominativ. Pommes frites is the subject.
Akk Ich bestelle die Pommes frites mit Ketchup.
I order the french fries with ketchup.
bestellen = to order · der Ketchup = ketchup. "Die" stays "die" in Plural Akkusativ (die → die). Pommes frites is the direct object.
Dat Das Schnitzel schmeckt gut mit den Pommes frites.
The schnitzel tastes good with the french fries.
das Schnitzel = schnitzel · schmecken = to taste · mit = with (always Dativ). "Den" because Plural Dativ always adds -n (die → den) after "mit".
mittags — at noon
The adverb form of "der Mittag" (midday) — lowercase and with a final -s, like "morgens" and "abends." It describes a recurring habit at that time of day, not one specific noon.
Nom Die Pause ist mittags.
The break is at noon.
die Pause (feminin) = break · mittags = at noon. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Pause is the subject.
Akk Ich esse mittags das Mittagessen.
At noon I eat lunch.
essen = to eat · das Mittagessen (neutrum) = lunch. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Mittagessen is the direct object; "mittags" is an adverb and does not decline.
Dat Mittags gehe ich mit dem Kollegen essen.
At noon I go eat with the colleague.
gehen = to go · der Kollege (maskulin) = colleague · mit = with (always Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
nachmittags — in the afternoon
The adverb form of "der Nachmittag" — lowercase, ending in -s, describing a habitual afternoon activity. "Nachmittags trinke ich Kaffee" is a very German sentence.
Nom Der Unterricht ist nachmittags.
Class is in the afternoon.
der Unterricht (maskulin) = class/lesson · nachmittags = in the afternoon. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Unterricht is the subject.
Akk Ich trinke nachmittags den Kaffee.
In the afternoon I drink the coffee.
trinken = to drink · der Kaffee (maskulin) = coffee. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Kaffee is the direct object; "nachmittags" does not decline.
Dat Nachmittags esse ich Kuchen mit der Sahne.
In the afternoon I eat cake with the cream.
essen = to eat · der Kuchen = cake · die Sahne (feminin) = cream · mit = with (always Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
nachts — at night
The adverb form of "die Nacht" — lowercase, ending in -s. "Nachts" describes something that regularly happens at night, as opposed to "in der Nacht," which points to one specific night.
Nom Die Stadt ist nachts ruhig.
The city is quiet at night.
die Stadt (feminin) = city · nachts = at night · ruhig = quiet. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Stadt is the subject.
Akk Ich esse nachts nie das Gericht.
At night I never eat the dish.
essen = to eat · nie = never · das Gericht (neutrum) = dish. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Gericht is the direct object; "nachts" does not decline.
Dat Nachts esse ich mit dem Mitbewohner.
At night I eat with the roommate.
essen = to eat · der Mitbewohner (maskulin) = roommate · mit = with (always Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
die Einladung — invitation
Plural: die Einladungen. From "einladen" (to invite). Germans take invitations seriously — an "Einladung zum Essen" (invitation to dinner) usually calls for bringing a small gift like flowers or wine.
Nom Die Einladung ist nett.
The invitation is nice.
die Einladung (feminin) = invitation · nett = nice. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Einladung is the subject.
Akk Ich bekomme die Einladung zum Essen.
I get the invitation to dinner.
bekommen = to get/receive · zum Essen = to dinner. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Einladung is the direct object.
Dat Ich freue mich über die Einladung von dem Kollegen.
I'm happy about the invitation from the colleague.
sich freuen über = to be happy about · der Kollege (maskulin) = colleague · von = from (always Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "von"; "Kollege" is a weak noun and adds -n → "dem Kollegen".
nett — nice
A warm, everyday compliment for a person or gesture: "Das ist nett von dir" (That's nice of you). Softer and more casual than "freundlich" (friendly/kind).
Nom Der Kollege ist nett.
The colleague is nice.
der Kollege (maskulin) = colleague · nett = nice. Predicative use (after "ist") — no ending. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ.
Akk Ich finde die nette Einladung toll.
I find the nice invitation great.
finden = to find/think · die Einladung (feminin) = invitation. Attributive Akkusativ: feminin article stays die → die, adjective gets -e → "die nette Einladung".
Dat Mit dem netten Kollegen esse ich gern.
I like eating with the nice colleague.
mit = with (always Dativ) · gern = gladly. Attributive Dativ: maskulin der → dem, adjective ending -en → "dem netten Kollegen" (weak noun Kollege also adds -n).
waschen, er wäscht — to wash
An irregular verb with a stem change: ich wasche, du wäschst, er/sie wäscht (a → ä), wir waschen. Used for washing food, dishes, hands, or clothes ("Wäsche waschen" = to do laundry).
Nom Die Mutter wäscht das Gemüse.
The mother washes the vegetables.
die Mutter (feminin) = mother · waschen = to wash → wäscht (sie form, stem change a → ä) · das Gemüse = vegetables. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Mutter is the subject.
Akk Ich wasche die Tomate.
I wash the tomato.
waschen = to wash (ich wasche, no stem change) · die Tomate (feminin) = tomato. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Tomate is the direct object.
Dat Er wäscht das Obst mit dem Wasser.
He washes the fruit with the water.
waschen = to wash → wäscht (er form) · das Wasser (neutrum) = water · mit = with (always Dativ). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit".
schneiden — to cut
An irregular verb: ich schneide, du schneidest, er/sie schneidet, past participle "geschnitten." Essential kitchen vocabulary — "das Brot schneiden," "die Zwiebel schneiden."
Nom Der Koch schneidet schnell.
The cook cuts quickly.
der Koch (maskulin) = cook · schneiden = to cut → schneidet (er form) · schnell = quickly. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Koch is the subject.
Akk Ich schneide das Brot.
I cut the bread.
schneiden = to cut (ich schneide) · das Brot (neutrum) = bread. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Brot is the direct object.
Dat Ich schneide die Wurst mit dem Messer.
I cut the sausage with the knife.
die Wurst = sausage · das Messer (neutrum) = knife · mit = with (always Dativ). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit".
grillen — to grill
Regular verb: ich grille, du grillst, er grillt. "Grillen" is close to a national pastime in summer — a "Grillfest" (barbecue party) with Würstchen and Fleisch is a classic get-together.
Nom Der Vater grillt am Wochenende.
The father grills on the weekend.
der Vater (maskulin) = father · grillen = to grill (er grillt) · das Wochenende = weekend. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Vater is the subject.
Akk Wir grillen das Würstchen.
We grill the small sausage.
grillen = to grill (wir grillen) · das Würstchen (neutrum) = small sausage. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Würstchen is the direct object.
Dat Wir grillen mit dem Nachbarn.
We grill with the neighbor.
der Nachbar (maskulin) = neighbor · mit = with (always Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit"; "Nachbar" is a weak noun and adds -n → "dem Nachbarn".
die Kantine — canteen
Plural: die Kantinen. An in-house cafeteria at a workplace, school, or university (also called "Mensa" at universities), offering subsidized daily meals.
Nom Die Kantine ist billig.
The canteen is cheap.
die Kantine (feminin) = canteen · billig = cheap. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Kantine is the subject.
Akk Ich besuche die Kantine mittags.
I visit the canteen at noon.
besuchen = to visit · mittags = at noon. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ does not change (die → die). Kantine is the direct object.
Dat Ich esse in der Kantine.
I eat in the canteen.
essen = to eat · in = in (location, always Dativ here). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in".
wenig — little / few
Used with uncountable nouns for "little" (wenig Zeit — little time) and, in its plural form "wenige," with countable nouns for "few" (wenige Leute — few people). The opposite of "viel."
Nom Das wenige Geld reicht nicht.
The little money isn't enough.
das Geld (neutrum) = money · wenig = little/few · reichen = to be enough. Attributive Nominativ: neutrum article das → das, weak adjective ending -e → "das wenige Geld".
Akk Ich habe nur die wenige Zeit.
I only have the little time.
die Zeit (feminin) = time · haben = to have · nur = only. Attributive Akkusativ: feminin die → die, adjective ending -e → "die wenige Zeit".
Dat Mit dem wenigen Geld kaufe ich Brot.
With the little money I buy bread.
mit = with (always Dativ) · das Geld (neutrum) = money · kaufen = to buy. Attributive Dativ: neutrum das → dem, adjective ending -en → "dem wenigen Geld".
vielleicht — maybe / perhaps
A flexible adverb that softens statements and suggestions: "Vielleicht komme ich später" (Maybe I'll come later). It never changes form and often starts a sentence, pushing the verb to position 2.
Nom Vielleicht ist der Kuchen noch da.
Maybe the cake is still there.
vielleicht = maybe/perhaps · der Kuchen (maskulin) = cake · noch = still. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Kuchen is the subject; "vielleicht" does not decline.
Akk Vielleicht nehme ich das Schnitzel.
Maybe I'll have the schnitzel.
nehmen = to take/have · das Schnitzel (neutrum) = schnitzel. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ does not change (das → das). Schnitzel is the direct object.
Dat Vielleicht esse ich mit der Kollegin.
Maybe I'll eat with the (female) colleague.
essen = to eat · die Kollegin (feminin) = female colleague · mit = with (always Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".