Appearance
Netzwerk 6: Leisure
Chapter 6 — leisure activities, parties, ordering food, and tableware.
Maskulin Feminin Neutrum Plural
der Geburtstag — birthday
Plural: die Geburtstage. Literally "birth-day" (Geburt + Tag). Germans take birthdays seriously — it's bad luck to wish someone "Happy Birthday" before the actual day! At work, the birthday person often brings cake for everyone.
Nom Der Geburtstag ist am Samstag.
The birthday is on Saturday.
der Geburtstag (maskulin) = birthday · am = on (contraction of an + dem) · der Samstag (maskulin) = Saturday. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Geburtstag is the subject.
Akk Wir feiern den Geburtstag zusammen.
We celebrate the birthday together.
wir = we · feiern = to celebrate · zusammen = together. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Geburtstag is the direct object.
Dat Was machst du an dem Geburtstag?
What are you doing on the birthday?
was = what · machen = to do · du = you · an = on (+ Dativ for time). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "an" (temporal, so Dativ). Geburtstag is the object of the preposition.
das Geschenk — gift / present
Plural: die Geschenke. Related to "schenken" (to give as a gift). Germans often bring a small Geschenk when invited to someone's home — wine, flowers, or chocolates are safe choices.
Nom Das Geschenk ist wunderbar.
The gift is wonderful.
das Geschenk (neutrum) = gift · wunderbar = wonderful. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Geschenk is the subject.
Akk Ich kaufe das Geschenk morgen.
I buy the gift tomorrow.
ich = I · kaufen = to buy · morgen = tomorrow. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ (neutrum does not change: das → das). Geschenk is the direct object.
Dat Er dankt ihr mit dem Geschenk.
He thanks her with the gift.
er = he · danken = to thank (+ Dativ for the person: ihr = her) · mit = with (+ Dativ). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit." Geschenk is the object of the preposition.
das Fest — festival / celebration
Plural: die Feste. Germany is famous for its Feste — from Oktoberfest to Weihnachten (Christmas) markets. Even small towns have annual Stadtfeste (city festivals) with music, food, and Bier.
Nom Das Fest beginnt um 18 Uhr.
The festival starts at 6 PM.
das Fest (neutrum) = festival · beginnen = to begin · um = at (with time) · die Uhr (feminin) = clock/hour. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Fest is the subject.
Akk Wir organisieren das Fest im Park.
We organize the festival in the park.
wir = we · organisieren = to organize · im = in the (contraction of in + dem) · der Park (maskulin) = park. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ (neutrum: das → das). Fest is the direct object.
Dat Er erzählt von dem Fest.
He tells about the festival.
er = he · erzählen = to tell · von = about/from (+ Dativ). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "von." Fest is the object of the preposition.
die Einladung — invitation
Plural: die Einladungen. From "einladen" (to invite). In Germany, if someone gives you an Einladung to dinner at a restaurant, it usually means they are paying for you — "Ich lade dich ein" literally means "I'm treating you."
Nom Die Einladung kommt per E-Mail.
The invitation comes by email.
die Einladung (feminin) = invitation · kommen = to come · per = by/via · die E-Mail (feminin) = email. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Einladung is the subject.
Akk Hast du die Einladung bekommen?
Did you get the invitation?
haben = to have (hast = du-form) · du = you · bekommen = to receive. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin does not change: die → die). Einladung is the direct object.
Dat Ich erzähle von der Einladung.
I tell about the invitation.
ich = I · erzählen = to tell · von = about/from (+ Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "von." Warning: "der" here is feminin Dativ, NOT maskulin Nominativ!
die Nachricht — message
Plural: die Nachrichten. This word does double duty: eine Nachricht = a message (text, email), but die Nachrichten (plural) = the news! "Hast du meine Nachricht gelesen?" is what you text when someone doesn't reply.
Nom Die Nachricht ist kurz.
The message is short.
die Nachricht (feminin) = message · kurz = short. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Nachricht is the subject.
Akk Er schreibt die Nachricht schnell.
He writes the message quickly.
er = he · schreiben = to write · schnell = quickly. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin does not change: die → die). Nachricht is the direct object.
Dat Was steht in der Nachricht?
What does it say in the message?
was = what · stehen = to stand (here: to say/be written) · in = in (+ Dativ for location). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in." Nachricht is the object of the preposition.
das Schnitzel — schnitzel
Plural: die Schnitzel. A breaded and fried cutlet — the king of German comfort food. "Wiener Schnitzel" is made with veal, while "Schnitzel Wiener Art" uses pork. Never put sauce on a Wiener Schnitzel — Austrians and Germans will be horrified!
Nom Das Schnitzel schmeckt fantastisch.
The schnitzel tastes fantastic.
das Schnitzel (neutrum) = schnitzel · schmecken = to taste · fantastisch = fantastic. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Schnitzel is the subject.
Akk Ich bestelle das Schnitzel mit Pommes.
I order the schnitzel with fries.
ich = I · bestellen = to order · mit = with (+ Dativ) · die Pommes (plural) = fries. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ (neutrum: das → das). Schnitzel is the direct object. Note: Pommes after "mit" would be Dativ, but plural nouns without article look the same.
Dat Was ist auf dem Schnitzel?
What is on the schnitzel?
was = what · sein = to be · auf = on (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "auf" (location = Dativ). Schnitzel is the object of the preposition.
die Rechnung — bill / check
Plural: die Rechnungen. In German restaurants, the waiter won't bring the bill automatically — you must ask! Say "Die Rechnung, bitte" or "Zahlen, bitte." Tipping is usually 5-10%, and you round up to a nice number.
Nom Die Rechnung kommt sofort.
The bill is coming right away.
die Rechnung (feminin) = bill · kommen = to come · sofort = right away/immediately. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Rechnung is the subject.
Akk Können wir die Rechnung haben?
Can we have the bill?
können = can · wir = we · haben = to have. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin does not change: die → die). Rechnung is the direct object. This is the polite way to ask for the bill.
Dat Was steht auf der Rechnung?
What is on the bill?
was = what · stehen = to stand (here: to be written) · auf = on (+ Dativ for location). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "auf." Rechnung is the object of the preposition.
das Glas — glass
Plural: die Gläser (note the umlaut!). Used for drinking glasses and also the material glass. In Germany, water is often served in a small Glas — free tap water ("Leitungswasser") is uncommon in restaurants. You usually order "ein Glas Wasser."
Nom Das Glas ist leer.
The glass is empty.
das Glas (neutrum) = glass · leer = empty. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Glas is the subject.
Akk Ich nehme das Glas Wein, bitte.
I'll take the glass of wine, please.
ich = I · nehmen = to take · der Wein (maskulin) = wine · bitte = please. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ (neutrum: das → das). Glas is the direct object.
Dat Der Wein ist in dem Glas.
The wine is in the glass.
der Wein (maskulin) = wine · in = in (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in." Glas is the object of the preposition. Colloquially: "im Glas" (contraction of in + dem).
die Tasse — cup
Plural: die Tassen. "Eine Tasse Kaffee" is the standard way to order coffee. Fun idiom: "Er hat nicht alle Tassen im Schrank" (He doesn't have all cups in the cupboard) means someone is a bit crazy!
Nom Die Tasse ist sehr schön.
The cup is very beautiful.
die Tasse (feminin) = cup · sehr = very · schön = beautiful. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Tasse is the subject.
Akk Du nimmst die Tasse Tee.
You take the cup of tea.
du = you · nehmen = to take (nimmst = du-form, irregular!) · der Tee (maskulin) = tea. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin: die → die). Tasse is the direct object.
Dat Der Kaffee ist in der Tasse.
The coffee is in the cup.
der Kaffee (maskulin) = coffee · in = in (+ Dativ for location). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in." Warning: "der" here is feminin Dativ, NOT maskulin Nominativ!
der Teller — plate
Plural: die Teller. In Germany, finishing everything on your Teller is a compliment to the cook. "Einen Teller Suppe" (a plate of soup) is how you'd order soup in a restaurant.
Nom Der Teller ist warm.
The plate is warm.
der Teller (maskulin) = plate · warm = warm. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Teller is the subject.
Akk Sie stellt den Teller auf den Tisch.
She puts the plate on the table.
sie = she · stellen = to put/place · auf = on (+ Akkusativ for movement) · der Tisch (maskulin) = table. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Teller is the direct object. Note: "den Tisch" is also Akkusativ because she moves the plate onto the table (direction).
Dat Das Schnitzel liegt auf dem Teller.
The schnitzel is lying on the plate.
das Schnitzel (neutrum) = schnitzel · liegen = to lie/be lying · auf = on (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "auf" (location = Dativ). Teller is the object of the preposition.
die Gabel — fork
Plural: die Gabeln. Germans hold the fork in the left hand and the knife in the right — switching hands like in American style is uncommon. Setting the table? Gabel links, Messer rechts (fork left, knife right).
Nom Die Gabel liegt links.
The fork is on the left.
die Gabel (feminin) = fork · liegen = to lie/be placed · links = on the left. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Gabel is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche die Gabel.
I need the fork.
ich = I · brauchen = to need. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin: die → die). Gabel is the direct object.
Dat Er isst mit der Gabel.
He eats with the fork.
er = he · essen = to eat (isst = er-form, irregular!) · mit = with (+ Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit." Warning: "der" here is feminin Dativ, NOT maskulin Nominativ!
der Biergarten — beer garden
Plural: die Biergärten (umlaut!). A uniquely Bavarian invention now found all over Germany. In a traditional Biergarten, you can bring your own food but must buy drinks there. They open when the weather is warm — Germans flock to them on sunny days.
Nom Der Biergarten ist heute voll.
The beer garden is full today.
der Biergarten (maskulin) = beer garden · heute = today · voll = full. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Biergarten is the subject. Compound word: das Bier (beer) + der Garten (garden) — gender follows the last word (der Garten).
Akk Wir suchen den Biergarten.
We are looking for the beer garden.
wir = we · suchen = to look for/search. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Biergarten is the direct object.
Dat Wir sitzen in dem Biergarten.
We are sitting in the beer garden.
wir = we · sitzen = to sit · in = in (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in." Colloquially: "im Biergarten" (contraction of in + dem).
die Kneipe — pub
Plural: die Kneipen. A Kneipe is a cozy, casual neighborhood bar — smaller and more relaxed than a restaurant. University cities like Heidelberg and Freiburg are full of Studentenkneipen. A "Kneipentour" (pub crawl) is a popular Friday night activity.
Nom Die Kneipe ist gemütlich.
The pub is cozy.
die Kneipe (feminin) = pub · gemütlich = cozy/comfortable. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Kneipe is the subject. "Gemütlich" is a very German word with no perfect English translation — it means warm, cozy, and inviting.
Akk Kennst du die Kneipe in der Altstadt?
Do you know the pub in the old town?
kennen = to know (be familiar with) · du = you · in = in (+ Dativ) · die Altstadt (feminin) = old town. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin: die → die). Kneipe is the direct object. Note: "der Altstadt" = feminin Dativ after "in."
Dat Wir treffen uns in der Kneipe.
We meet in the pub.
sich treffen = to meet (reflexive) · wir = we · uns = ourselves (reflexive pronoun) · in = in (+ Dativ for location). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in." Warning: "der" here is feminin Dativ, NOT maskulin Nominativ!
bestellen — to order
Conjugation: ich bestelle, du bestellst, er/sie bestellt, wir bestellen. Essential for restaurants! In Germany, you often call the waiter with "Entschuldigung!" and then say what you want. "Ich hätte gerne..." (I would like...) is the polite way to order.
Nom Der Mann bestellt zuerst.
The man orders first.
der Mann (maskulin) = man · bestellen = to order (bestellt = er-form) · zuerst = first. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Mann is the subject performing the action of ordering.
Akk Wir bestellen das Eis und die Schorle.
We order the ice cream and the spritzer.
wir = we · bestellen = to order · das Eis (neutrum) = ice cream · und = and · die Schorle (feminin) = spritzer. "Das" and "die" stay the same in Akkusativ (neutrum and feminin don't change). Eis and Schorle are both direct objects.
Dat Sie bestellt bei dem Kellner.
She orders from the waiter.
sie = she · bestellen = to order (bestellt = sie-form) · bei = at/from (+ Dativ) · der Kellner (maskulin) = waiter. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "bei." Kellner is the object of the preposition.
einladen — to invite
Conjugation: ich lade ein, du lädst ein, er/sie lädt ein, wir laden ein. A trennbares Verb (separable verb)! The "ein" goes to the end of the sentence. "Ich lade dich ein" can also mean "It's my treat" — so be careful what you offer!
Nom Die Frau lädt alle ein.
The woman invites everyone.
die Frau (feminin) = woman · einladen = to invite (lädt ein = sie-form, separable!) · alle = everyone. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Frau is the subject. Notice "ein" goes to the end — this is how separable verbs work.
Akk Er lädt die Freundin zum Fest ein.
He invites the girlfriend to the celebration.
er = he · einladen = to invite (lädt ein = er-form) · die Freundin (feminin) = girlfriend/female friend · zum = to the (contraction of zu + dem). "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin: die → die). Freundin is the direct object (the person being invited).
Dat Du lädst mich zu dem Geburtstag ein.
You invite me to the birthday.
du = you · einladen = to invite (lädst ein = du-form) · mich = me (Akkusativ) · zu = to (+ Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "zu." Geburtstag is the object of the Dativ preposition. Colloquially: "zum Geburtstag" (contraction of zu + dem).
ins Fitness-Studio gehen — to go to the gym
"Ins" is a contraction of "in" + "das" (Akkusativ, because you're moving into the gym). Conjugate "gehen": ich gehe, du gehst, er/sie geht. Germans often say simply "Ich gehe ins Studio."
Nom Mein Bruder geht ins Fitness-Studio.
My brother goes to the gym.
mein Bruder (maskulin) = my brother · gehen = to go (geht = er-form) · ins Fitness-Studio gehen = to go to the gym. "Mein Bruder" is the subject, Nominativ.
Akk Ich gehe jeden Tag ins Fitness-Studio.
I go to the gym every day.
ins = in + das (Akkusativ, movement toward a destination) · jeden Tag = every day. Neutrum Akkusativ: das → das, but "in das" contracts to "ins." Studio is the destination being moved into.
Dat Wir treffen uns im Fitness-Studio.
We meet at the gym.
sich treffen = to meet (reflexive) · im = in + dem (Dativ, no movement, just location). "Im" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem), contracted with "in."
klettern — to climb
Conjugation: ich klettere, du kletterst, er/sie klettert. A popular weekend activity in Germany — indoor "Kletterhallen" (climbing gyms) are common in every big city, alongside real rock climbing in the Alps.
Nom Der Junge klettert gern.
The boy likes to climb.
der Junge (maskulin) = boy · klettern = to climb (klettert = er-form) · gern = gladly/like to. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Junge is the subject.
Akk Wir besuchen die Kletterhalle und klettern dort.
We visit the climbing gym and climb there.
besuchen = to visit · die Kletterhalle (feminin) = climbing gym · dort = there. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Kletterhalle is the direct object of "besuchen."
Dat Sie klettert mit ihrem Freund.
She climbs with her boyfriend.
klettern = to climb (klettert = sie-form) · mit = with (+ Dativ) · ihr Freund (maskulin) = her boyfriend. "Ihrem" because maskulin Dativ (ihr → ihrem) after "mit."
Ski fahren — to ski
A fixed expression built with "fahren" (ich fahre, du fährst, er/sie fährt — stem change a → ä). "Ski" stays uninflected. Skiing is a major winter pastime in the German Alps, especially in Bavaria and Austria nearby.
Nom Meine Schwester fährt gut Ski.
My sister skis well.
meine Schwester (feminin) = my sister · Ski fahren = to ski (fährt = sie-form, stem change a → ä) · gut = well. "Meine Schwester" is the subject, Nominativ.
Akk Wir fahren jedes Jahr den gleichen Berg Ski.
We ski the same mountain every year.
Ski fahren = to ski · jedes Jahr = every year · der Berg (maskulin) = mountain → den gleichen Berg (Akkusativ). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Berg is the object being skied.
Dat Er fährt Ski mit seinen Freunden.
He skis with his friends.
Ski fahren = to ski (fährt = er-form) · mit = with (+ Dativ) · seine Freunde (plural) = his friends → seinen Freunden (Dativ plural adds -n). "Seinen Freunden" is plural Dativ after "mit."
wandern — to hike
Conjugation: ich wandere, du wanderst, er/sie wandert. Hiking ("Wandern") is a beloved German pastime — the country has an enormous network of marked "Wanderwege" (hiking trails) through forests and mountains.
Nom Die Familie wandert am Wochenende.
The family hikes on the weekend.
die Familie (feminin) = family · wandern = to hike (wandert = sie-form) · am Wochenende = on the weekend. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Familie is the subject.
Akk Wir wandern den ganzen Weg.
We hike the whole way.
wandern = to hike · der Weg (maskulin) = way/path → den ganzen Weg (Akkusativ, duration/distance expression). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den).
Dat Sie wandert mit ihrem Hund.
She hikes with her dog.
wandern = to hike (wandert = sie-form) · mit = with (+ Dativ) · ihr Hund (maskulin) = her dog. "Ihrem" because maskulin Dativ (ihr → ihrem) after "mit."
der Ausflug — trip / outing (plural: die Ausflüge)
Plural: die Ausflüge (Umlaut + -e). Used with the fixed phrase "einen Ausflug machen" (to go on a trip/outing) — a common weekend activity, whether to a lake, the mountains, or a nearby town.
Nom Der Ausflug war schön.
The trip was nice.
der Ausflug (maskulin) = trip/outing · schön = nice/beautiful. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Ausflug is the subject.
Akk Wir machen einen Ausflug an den See.
We're going on a trip to the lake.
machen = to make/do · der See (maskulin) = lake. "Einen" because maskulin Akkusativ (ein → einen). "Einen Ausflug machen" = to go on a trip/outing — a fixed phrase built around this noun.
Dat Nach dem Ausflug sind alle müde.
After the trip, everyone is tired.
nach = after (always Dativ) · alle = everyone · müde = tired. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "nach."
die Fahrradtour — cycling tour (plural: die Fahrradtouren)
A compound of "Fahrrad" (bicycle) + "Tour" (tour) — gender follows the last part, "die Tour," so it's feminin. Germany has extensive bike paths, and multi-day Fahrradtouren along rivers like the Rhein or Donau are popular.
Nom Die Fahrradtour dauert drei Stunden.
The cycling tour lasts three hours.
die Fahrradtour (feminin) = cycling tour · dauern = to last · drei Stunden = three hours. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Fahrradtour is the subject.
Akk Wir planen die Fahrradtour für Samstag.
We're planning the cycling tour for Saturday.
planen = to plan · für = for (+ Akkusativ). "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Fahrradtour is the direct object.
Dat Nach der Fahrradtour essen wir ein Picknick.
After the cycling tour, we eat a picnic.
nach = after (always Dativ) · essen = to eat. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "nach."
das Picknick — picnic (plural: die Picknicks)
A loanword from English, so the plural adds "-s": das Picknick → die Picknicks. Germans love picnicking in parks — "ein Picknick machen" is the phrase you'll use most.
Nom Das Picknick ist im Park.
The picnic is in the park.
das Picknick (neutrum) = picnic · der Park (maskulin) = park. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Picknick is the subject.
Akk Wir machen ein Picknick am See.
We're having a picnic by the lake.
machen = to make/do · der See (maskulin) = lake. "Ein" stays "ein" because neutrum Akkusativ = Nominativ (ein → ein). Picknick is the direct object of "machen."
Dat Bei dem Picknick gibt es Sandwiches.
At the picnic there are sandwiches.
bei = at (always Dativ) · es gibt = there is/are · der Sandwich (maskulin) → die Sandwiches (plural). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "bei."
feiern — to celebrate
Conjugation: ich feiere, du feierst, er/sie feiert. Germans take celebrations seriously — birthdays, weddings, and even "Silvester" (New Year's Eve) all get a proper "Feier." "Wir feiern!" is a happy phrase to know.
Nom Die Familie feiert heute.
The family is celebrating today.
die Familie (feminin) = family · feiern = to celebrate (feiert = sie-form) · heute = today. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Familie is the subject.
Akk Wir feiern den Geburtstag.
We're celebrating the birthday.
feiern = to celebrate · der Geburtstag (maskulin) = birthday. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Geburtstag is the direct object.
Dat Sie feiert mit ihren Freunden.
She celebrates with her friends.
feiern = to celebrate (feiert = sie-form) · mit = with (+ Dativ) · ihre Freunde (plural) = her friends. "Ihren Freunden" is plural Dativ (adds -n) after "mit."
werden, er wird — to become / to turn (age)
An irregular, stem-changing verb: ich werde, du wirst, er/sie wird. Used for ages: "Sie wird 30 Jahre alt" (She's turning 30). It's also the auxiliary for the future tense and the passive voice — one of the most important German verbs.
Nom Mein Vater wird heute 50.
My father turns 50 today.
mein Vater (maskulin) = my father · werden = to become/turn (wird = er-form) · heute = today. "Mein Vater" is the subject, Nominativ.
Akk Werden Sie den Kuchen für die Feier backen?
Will you (be going to) bake the cake for the celebration?
werden = will (future auxiliary, Sie-form) · backen = to bake · der Kuchen (maskulin) = cake. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Kuchen is the direct object of "backen."
Dat Mit dem Alter wird man ruhiger.
With age, one becomes calmer.
mit = with (+ Dativ) · das Alter (neutrum) = age · ruhiger = calmer. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit."
schenken — to gift / to give as a present
Conjugation: ich schenke, du schenkst, er/sie schenkt. Used with two objects: you gift SOMETHING (Akkusativ) to SOMEONE (Dativ). "Was schenkst du ihm?" (What are you giving him?) is a classic question before any birthday.
Nom Meine Oma schenkt gern.
My grandma likes to give gifts.
meine Oma (feminin) = my grandma · schenken = to gift (schenkt = sie-form) · gern = gladly/like to. "Meine Oma" is the subject, Nominativ.
Akk Ich schenke das Buch.
I'm gifting the book.
schenken = to gift · das Buch (neutrum) = book. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ (neutrum doesn't change). Buch is the direct object — the thing being given.
Dat Wir schenken der Freundin Blumen.
We're gifting the friend flowers.
schenken = to gift · die Freundin (feminin) = girlfriend/female friend · die Blumen = flowers. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der). Freundin is the indirect object — the person receiving the gift.
das Datum — date (calendar date, plural: die Daten)
Plural "die Daten" is irregular (Latin origin) and also means "data" in general. Don't confuse "das Datum" (calendar date) with "die Uhrzeit" (time of day). "Welches Datum haben wir heute?" = What's the date today?
Nom Das Datum ist wichtig.
The date is important.
das Datum (neutrum) = date · wichtig = important. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Datum is the subject.
Akk Ich notiere das Datum.
I note down the date.
notieren = to note down · das Datum (neutrum) = date. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ = Nominativ (das → das). Datum is the direct object.
Dat Ich bin mir bei dem Datum nicht sicher.
I'm not sure about the date.
das Datum (neutrum) = date · sich sicher sein = to be sure · bei = about/at (+ Dativ). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "bei", which always takes Dativ.
die Überraschung — surprise (plural: die Überraschungen)
From "überraschen" (to surprise) + the suffix "-ung," which always makes a noun feminin. "Es ist eine Überraschung!" is the classic phrase for a surprise party.
Nom Die Überraschung ist gelungen.
The surprise was a success.
die Überraschung (feminin) = surprise · gelingen = to succeed (gelungen = past participle). "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Überraschung is the subject.
Akk Wir planen die Überraschung zusammen.
We're planning the surprise together.
planen = to plan · zusammen = together. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Überraschung is the direct object.
Dat Er freut sich über die Überraschung und dankt uns für die Überraschung.
He's delighted about the surprise and thanks us for the surprise.
sich freuen über = to be happy about (+ Akkusativ) · danken = to thank (+ Dativ person, "für" + Akkusativ thing). Both instances stay Akkusativ here since "über" and "für" take Akkusativ.
Achtung! — Attention! / Watch out!
A sharp warning word, seen on signs everywhere in Germany ("Achtung, Stufe!" — Watch out, step!). It comes from "achten" (to pay attention to). Use it to alert someone to danger or an important detail.
Nom Achtung! Der Hund ist nicht angeleint.
Watch out! The dog is not on a leash.
Achtung! = attention/watch out! · der Hund (maskulin) = dog · angeleint = leashed. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ; Hund is the subject.
Akk Achtung! Ich sehe die Stufe nicht.
Watch out! I don't see the step.
Achtung! = watch out! · sehen = to see · die Stufe (feminin) = step. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ = Nominativ. Stufe is the direct object.
Dat Achtung! Sie weiß nichts von der Überraschung.
Watch out! She knows nothing about the surprise.
Achtung! = watch out! · wissen = to know · von = of/about (always Dativ) · die Überraschung (feminin) = surprise. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "von."
wissen, er weiß — to know (facts)
An irregular verb: ich weiß, du weißt, er/sie weiß, wir wissen. Don't confuse it with "kennen" (to know/be familiar with a person or place) — "wissen" is for facts and information, often followed by "dass" (that) or a question word.
Nom Meine Schwester weiß nichts.
My sister knows nothing.
meine Schwester (feminin) = my sister · wissen = to know (weiß = sie-form) · nichts = nothing. "Meine Schwester" is the subject, Nominativ.
Akk Weißt du das Datum?
Do you know the date?
wissen = to know (weißt = du-form) · das Datum (neutrum) = date. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ = Nominativ. Datum is the direct object being asked about.
Dat Ich sage es dem Gast, aber er weiß es schon.
I tell the guest, but he already knows.
sagen = to say/tell · der Gast (maskulin) = guest · schon = already. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) — the guest is the person told.
Spaß haben — to have fun
A fixed phrase using "haben" (ich habe, du hast, er/sie hat). "Viel Spaß!" (Have fun!) is a common farewell before a party or trip. "Das macht Spaß" (That's fun) is another handy variant.
Nom Die Kinder haben Spaß.
The children are having fun.
die Kinder (plural) = children · Spaß haben = to have fun (haben = sie/plural-form). "Die" — plural Nominativ. Kinder is the subject.
Akk Wir haben großen Spaß auf dem Fest.
We have great fun at the celebration.
Spaß haben = to have fun · das Fest (neutrum) = celebration. "Großen Spaß" is maskulin Akkusativ — Spaß is the direct object of "haben."
Dat Mit meinen Freunden habe ich immer Spaß.
I always have fun with my friends.
mit = with (+ Dativ) · meine Freunde (plural) = my friends · immer = always. "Meinen Freunden" is plural Dativ (adds -n) after "mit."
hoffentlich — hopefully
From "hoffen" (to hope) + "-entlich." It always stands at the start or in the middle field of a sentence to express a wish about the future. "Hoffentlich kommt ihr!" (Hopefully you'll come!) is a common line at the end of an invitation.
Nom Hoffentlich ist das Wetter gut.
Hopefully the weather is good.
hoffentlich = hopefully · das Wetter (neutrum) = weather. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Wetter is the subject.
Akk Hoffentlich bekommt sie das Geschenk rechtzeitig.
Hopefully she gets the gift in time.
hoffentlich = hopefully · bekommen = to receive · das Geschenk (neutrum) = gift · rechtzeitig = in time. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ. Geschenk is the direct object.
Dat Hoffentlich kommt ihr mit dem Zug pünktlich an.
Hopefully you arrive punctually by train.
hoffentlich = hopefully · ankommen = to arrive · der Zug (maskulin) = train · mit = by/with (+ Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit."
die Mail — email (plural: die Mails)
A loanword from English, feminin like "die E-Mail." Plural adds "-s" (loanword pattern). "Ich schreibe dir eine Mail" is far more common in everyday speech than the longer "E-Mail."
Nom Die Mail ist angekommen.
The email has arrived.
die Mail (feminin) = email · ankommen = to arrive. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Mail is the subject.
Akk Ich schreibe die Mail heute.
I'm writing the email today.
schreiben = to write · die Mail (feminin) = email · heute = today. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Mail is the direct object.
Dat Was steht in der Mail?
What does it say in the email?
stehen = to stand/say (in writing) · in = in (+ Dativ, location). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in."
schicken — to send
Conjugation: ich schicke, du schickst, er/sie schickt. A near-synonym of "senden," but "schicken" is used far more in everyday speech — for emails, letters, and packages alike.
Nom Der Kollege schickt eine Mail.
The colleague sends an email.
der Kollege (maskulin) = colleague · schicken = to send (schickt = er-form) · die Mail (feminin) = email. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Kollege is the subject.
Akk Ich schicke die Einladung.
I'm sending the invitation.
schicken = to send · die Einladung (feminin) = invitation. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Einladung is the direct object.
Dat Wir schicken dem Gast die Adresse.
We send the guest the address.
schicken = to send · der Gast (maskulin) = guest · die Adresse (feminin) = address. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem). Gast is the indirect object — the person receiving.
der Betreff — subject line (plural: die Betreffe)
The subject line of an email or letter, from "betreffen" (to concern). Always fill it in clearly — a good "Betreff" like "Einladung zum Fest" tells the reader instantly what the email is about.
Nom Der Betreff fehlt.
The subject line is missing.
der Betreff (maskulin) = subject line · fehlen = to be missing. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Betreff is the subject.
Akk Ich schreibe den Betreff zuerst.
I write the subject line first.
schreiben = to write · zuerst = first. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Betreff is the direct object.
Dat In dem Betreff steht "Geburtstag".
In the subject line it says "birthday."
in = in (+ Dativ, location) · stehen = to stand/say (in writing) · der Geburtstag (maskulin) = birthday. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in."
die Anrede — salutation (plural: die Anreden)
From "anreden" (to address someone). The opening greeting of a letter or email, like "Liebe Anna," or formal "Sehr geehrte Frau Schmidt,". Choosing the right Anrede is important for German politeness norms.
Nom Die Anrede ist zu formell.
The salutation is too formal.
die Anrede (feminin) = salutation · formell = formal. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Anrede is the subject.
Akk Wähle die Anrede sorgfältig.
Choose the salutation carefully.
wählen = to choose · sorgfältig = carefully. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Anrede is the direct object.
Dat Ich beginne die Mail mit der Anrede.
I start the email with the salutation.
beginnen = to begin · mit = with (+ Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit."
herzliche Grüße — warm regards (email sign-off)
A very common way to close an email or letter to friends and family — friendlier than the formal "Mit freundlichen Grüßen." Literally "hearty greetings" (from "das Herz" = heart, and "der Gruß" = greeting).
Nom Am Ende steht "Herzliche Grüße".
At the end it says "Warm regards."
herzliche Grüße = warm regards · am Ende = at the end · stehen = to stand/say (in writing). This is the fixed phrase itself standing as a quoted subject.
Akk Ich schreibe "Herzliche Grüße" unter den Text.
I write "Warm regards" below the text.
schreiben = to write · unter = below (+ Akkusativ, movement) · der Text (maskulin) = text. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) after "unter" (placing something below).
Dat Herzliche Grüße von der ganzen Familie.
Warm regards from the whole family.
herzliche Grüße = warm regards · von = from (always Dativ) · die ganze Familie (feminin) = the whole family. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "von."
die Salami — salami (plural: die Salamis)
A loanword from Italian, feminin in German. Plural adds "-s." A classic pizza and sandwich topping — "Salamibrot" (salami sandwich) is a common quick snack.
Nom Die Salami schmeckt scharf.
The salami tastes spicy.
die Salami (feminin) = salami · schmecken = to taste · scharf = spicy/sharp. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Salami is the subject.
Akk Er isst die Salami gern.
He likes to eat the salami.
essen = to eat · gern = gladly/like to. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Salami is the direct object.
Dat Das Brot ist mit der Salami belegt.
The bread is topped with the salami.
das Brot (neutrum) = bread · belegen = to top/cover · mit = with (+ Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit."
die Tomatensuppe — tomato soup (plural: die Tomatensuppen)
A compound of "Tomate" (tomato) + "Suppe" (soup) — takes the gender of "die Suppe," feminin. A common starter on German restaurant menus, often served with bread or croutons.
Nom Die Tomatensuppe ist heiß.
The tomato soup is hot.
die Tomatensuppe (feminin) = tomato soup · heiß = hot. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Tomatensuppe is the subject.
Akk Ich bestelle die Tomatensuppe.
I'm ordering the tomato soup.
bestellen = to order. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Tomatensuppe is the direct object.
Dat Zu der Tomatensuppe gibt es Brot.
With the tomato soup there is bread.
zu = to/with (always Dativ) · es gibt = there is/are · das Brot (neutrum) = bread. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "zu."
der Sandwich — sandwich (plural: die Sandwichs)
A loanword from English; note it's maskulin in German (das Sandwich also occurs, but der Sandwich is standard per this textbook). Plural adds "-s," typical of loanwords.
Nom Der Sandwich ist frisch.
The sandwich is fresh.
der Sandwich (maskulin) = sandwich · frisch = fresh. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Sandwich is the subject.
Akk Ich nehme den Sandwich mit Salami.
I'll take the sandwich with salami.
nehmen = to take · die Salami (feminin) = salami. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Sandwich is the direct object.
Dat Was ist in dem Sandwich?
What's in the sandwich?
in = in (+ Dativ, location) · was = what. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in."
der Durst — thirst (no plural)
A "Singularwort" — no plural form. Used with "haben": "Ich habe Durst" (I'm thirsty) — note German uses "haben," not "sein," unlike some other languages.
Nom Der Durst ist groß.
The thirst is great.
der Durst (maskulin, Singular only) = thirst · groß = big/great. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Durst is the subject.
Akk Ich habe großen Durst.
I'm very thirsty.
haben = to have · groß = big/great. "Großen Durst" is maskulin Akkusativ (der → den pattern reflected in the adjective ending). Durst is the direct object of "haben."
Dat Bei großem Durst trinkt man viel Wasser.
With great thirst one drinks a lot of water.
bei = with/in the case of (+ Dativ) · groß = great · der Durst (maskulin) = thirst. "Bei" always takes Dativ; the ending shows it — großem (maskulin Dativ -em). Durst has no article here, so the Dativ appears on the adjective.
der Hunger — hunger (no plural)
A "Singularwort" — no plural form. "Ich habe Hunger" (I'm hungry) — again "haben," not "sein." "Guten Hunger!" doesn't exist — the correct phrase before eating is "Guten Appetit!"
Nom Der Hunger kommt beim Essen.
Appetite comes with eating. (lit. hunger comes while eating)
der Hunger (maskulin, Singular only) = hunger · kommen = to come · beim = bei + dem = while/during. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Hunger is the subject.
Akk Wir haben großen Hunger.
We're very hungry.
haben = to have · groß = big/great. "Großen Hunger" is maskulin Akkusativ. Hunger is the direct object of "haben."
Dat Nach dem Hunger schmeckt alles gut.
After being hungry, everything tastes good.
nach = after (always Dativ) · schmecken = to taste. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "nach."
die Speisekarte — menu (plural: die Speisekarten)
A compound of "Speise" (dish/food) + "Karte" (card), feminin like "die Karte." The waiter usually brings the Speisekarte automatically when you sit down at a German restaurant.
Nom Die Speisekarte liegt auf dem Tisch.
The menu is lying on the table.
die Speisekarte (feminin) = menu · liegen = to lie/be located · der Tisch (maskulin) = table. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Speisekarte is the subject.
Akk Können wir die Speisekarte haben?
Could we have the menu?
können = can · haben = to have. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Speisekarte is the direct object.
Dat Auf der Speisekarte steht das Schnitzel.
On the menu is the schnitzel.
auf = on (+ Dativ, location) · stehen = to stand/be listed · das Schnitzel (neutrum) = schnitzel. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "auf."
die Bestellung — order (plural: die Bestellungen)
From "bestellen" (to order) + the suffix "-ung," always feminin. "Ihre Bestellung, bitte!" is what a waiter might say when ready to take your order.
Nom Die Bestellung kommt gleich.
The order is coming right away.
die Bestellung (feminin) = order · gleich = right away/soon. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Bestellung is the subject.
Akk Der Kellner nimmt die Bestellung auf.
The waiter takes down the order.
der Kellner (maskulin) = waiter · aufnehmen = to take down/record. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Bestellung is the direct object.
Dat Bei der Bestellung fragt er nach Getränken.
While taking the order, he asks about drinks.
bei = at/during (always Dativ) · fragen nach = to ask about (+ Dativ) · die Getränke = drinks. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "bei."
bezahlen — to pay (for something specific)
Conjugation: ich bezahle, du bezahlst, er/sie bezahlt. Takes a direct object (Akkusativ) — you "bezahlen" the bill, the meal, or the item itself: "Ich bezahle die Rechnung." Compare with "zahlen," used more generally.
Nom Der Gast bezahlt sofort.
The guest pays immediately.
der Gast (maskulin) = guest · bezahlen = to pay (bezahlt = er-form) · sofort = immediately. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Gast is the subject.
Akk Ich bezahle die Rechnung.
I'm paying the bill.
bezahlen = to pay (for) · die Rechnung (feminin) = bill. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Rechnung is the direct object — bezahlen takes an Akkusativ object.
Dat Sie bezahlt mit der Karte.
She pays with the card.
bezahlen = to pay (bezahlt = sie-form) · mit = with (+ Dativ) · die Karte (feminin) = card. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit."
zahlen — to pay (in general)
Conjugation: ich zahle, du zahlst, er/sie zahlt. Used without a direct object, especially in the restaurant phrase "Zahlen, bitte!" (The bill, please! / I'd like to pay!) — one of the most useful phrases in German.
Nom Wer zahlt heute?
Who's paying today?
wer = who (Nominativ) · zahlen = to pay (zahlt = er/sie-form) · heute = today. "Wer" is Nominativ, asking for the subject.
Akk Wir zahlen für den Kuchen.
We're paying for the cake.
zahlen = to pay · für = for (always Akkusativ) · der Kuchen (maskulin) = cake. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) after "für."
Dat "Zahlen, bitte!", ruft er dem Kellner zu.
"The bill, please!" he calls to the waiter.
zahlen, bitte! = the bill, please! · zurufen = to call out to (+ Dativ) · der Kellner (maskulin) = waiter. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) — "zurufen" takes a Dativ object.
Für wen ist …? — Who is this for?
A fixed restaurant phrase the waiter uses when serving multiple dishes at once, unsure who ordered what. "Wen" is the Akkusativ form of "wer," required because "für" always takes Akkusativ.
Nom Der Kellner fragt: "Für wen ist das Schnitzel?"
The waiter asks: "Who is the schnitzel for?"
der Kellner (maskulin) = waiter · fragen = to ask · das Schnitzel (neutrum) = schnitzel. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ; Kellner is the subject asking.
Akk Für wen ist die Tomatensuppe?
Who is the tomato soup for?
für wen = who ... for (für + Akkusativ "wen") · die Tomatensuppe (feminin) = tomato soup. "Wen" is always Akkusativ after "für." (Die Tomatensuppe is the Nominativ subject of "ist".)
Dat Für wen bringt er dem Gast das Getränk?
Who is he bringing the guest the drink for?
für wen = who ... for · bringen = to bring · der Gast (maskulin) = guest · das Getränk (neutrum) = drink. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) — Gast is the indirect object receiving the drink.
Zusammen oder getrennt? — Together or separately? (restaurant bill)
The classic question a German waiter asks a group before bringing the bill — do you want one bill for everyone, or separate bills? Answer with "Zusammen, bitte" or "Getrennt, bitte."
Nom Der Kellner fragt: "Zusammen oder getrennt?"
The waiter asks: "Together or separately?"
der Kellner (maskulin) = waiter · fragen = to ask · zusammen oder getrennt? = together or separately? "Der" — maskulin Nominativ; Kellner is the subject.
Akk Wir bezahlen die Rechnung zusammen.
We're paying the bill together.
bezahlen = to pay · die Rechnung (feminin) = bill · zusammen = together. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ. Rechnung is the direct object.
Dat Getrennt zahlen ist bei der Gruppe einfacher.
Paying separately is easier for the group.
getrennt = separately · bei = for/with (always Dativ) · die Gruppe (feminin) = group · einfacher = easier. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "bei."
das Trinkgeld — tip (no plural, typically)
A compound of "trinken" (to drink) + "Geld" (money) — historically money given "for a drink." In Germany, tipping around 5-10% by rounding up the bill is customary, but not mandatory like in the US.
Nom Das Trinkgeld ist in Deutschland niedriger als in den USA.
The tip is lower in Germany than in the USA.
das Trinkgeld (neutrum) = tip · niedriger = lower. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Trinkgeld is the subject.
Akk Wir geben das Trinkgeld in bar.
We give the tip in cash.
geben = to give · in bar = in cash. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ. Trinkgeld is the direct object.
Dat Der Kellner freut sich über das Trinkgeld.
The waiter is happy about the tip.
der Kellner (maskulin) = waiter · sich freuen über = to be happy about (+ Akkusativ, not Dativ). "Das" stays "das" here since "über" takes Akkusativ, not Dativ — Trinkgeld is the object of "über."
geben, er gibt — to give
A stem-changing verb (e → i): ich gebe, du gibst, er/sie gibt. Takes two objects — you give SOMETHING (Akkusativ) to SOMEONE (Dativ). "Es gibt" (there is/are) is also built from this verb.
Nom Die Frau gibt großzügig Trinkgeld.
The woman gives generous tips.
die Frau (feminin) = woman · geben = to give (gibt = sie-form) · großzügig = generously. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Frau is the subject.
Akk Ich gebe das Trinkgeld.
I give the tip.
geben = to give (gebe = ich-form) · das Trinkgeld (neutrum) = tip. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ. Trinkgeld is the direct object.
Dat Er gibt dem Kellner das Geld.
He gives the waiter the money.
geben = to give (gibt = er-form) · der Kellner (maskulin) = waiter · das Geld (neutrum) = money. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem). Kellner is the indirect object receiving the money.
Stimmt so. — Keep the change.
A fixed phrase used when paying — literally "That's correct as is," telling the waiter not to bring back the change. From "stimmen" (to be correct): ich stimme, du stimmst, er/sie stimmt.
Nom Der Gast sagt: "Stimmt so."
The guest says: "Keep the change."
der Gast (maskulin) = guest · sagen = to say · stimmt so = keep the change. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ; Gast is the subject.
Akk Er zahlt die Rechnung und sagt: "Stimmt so."
He pays the bill and says, "Keep the change."
zahlen = to pay · die Rechnung (feminin) = bill. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ. Rechnung is the direct object being paid before the phrase is said.
Dat Stimmt so, sagt sie dem Kellner.
"Keep the change," she tells the waiter.
stimmt so = keep the change · sagen = to say/tell · der Kellner (maskulin) = waiter. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) — Kellner is the person told.
das Messer — knife (plural: die Messer)
The plural stays the same: das Messer → die Messer. Many neutrum nouns ending in "-er" don't change in plural. A basic table item, always set to the right of the plate in German dining etiquette.
Nom Das Messer ist scharf.
The knife is sharp.
das Messer (neutrum) = knife · scharf = sharp. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Messer is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche das Messer.
I need the knife.
brauchen = to need. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ. Messer is the direct object.
Dat Er schneidet das Schnitzel mit dem Messer.
He cuts the schnitzel with the knife.
schneiden = to cut · das Schnitzel (neutrum) = schnitzel · mit = with (+ Dativ). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit."
der Löffel — spoon (plural: die Löffel)
The plural stays the same: der Löffel → die Löffel. Maskulin nouns ending in "-el" typically don't change in plural. Used for soup — "einen Löffel Suppe" is a spoonful of soup.
Nom Der Löffel liegt neben dem Teller.
The spoon lies next to the plate.
der Löffel (maskulin) = spoon · liegen = to lie · der Teller (maskulin) = plate. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Löffel is the subject.
Akk Sie nimmt den Löffel für die Suppe.
She takes the spoon for the soup.
nehmen = to take · die Suppe (feminin) = soup. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Löffel is the direct object.
Dat Ich esse die Tomatensuppe mit dem Löffel.
I eat the tomato soup with the spoon.
essen = to eat · mit = with (+ Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit."
die Serviette — napkin (plural: die Servietten)
A loanword from French "serviette." In nicer German restaurants, expect a cloth Serviette; more casual places use paper ones. Feminin, plural adds "-n."
Nom Die Serviette liegt auf dem Teller.
The napkin lies on the plate.
die Serviette (feminin) = napkin · liegen = to lie · der Teller (maskulin) = plate. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Serviette is the subject.
Akk Er braucht die Serviette.
He needs the napkin.
brauchen = to need. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Serviette is the direct object.
Dat Sie wischt sich den Mund mit der Serviette ab.
She wipes her mouth with the napkin.
abwischen = to wipe off · der Mund (maskulin) = mouth · mit = with (+ Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit."
das Kaffeehaus — coffee house (plural: die Kaffeehäuser)
A compound of "Kaffee" (coffee) + "Haus" (house), taking the gender of "das Haus," neutrum. Plural follows "Haus" too: Umlaut + "-er" (Kaffeehäuser). Especially associated with the Viennese "Kaffeehauskultur," but found in Germany too.
Nom Das Kaffeehaus ist gemütlich.
The coffee house is cozy.
das Kaffeehaus (neutrum) = coffee house · gemütlich = cozy. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Kaffeehaus is the subject.
Akk Wir besuchen das Kaffeehaus am Marktplatz.
We visit the coffee house on the market square.
besuchen = to visit · der Marktplatz (maskulin) = market square. "Das" stays "das" in Akkusativ. Kaffeehaus is the direct object.
Dat In dem Kaffeehaus gibt es Kuchen.
In the coffee house there is cake.
in = in (+ Dativ, location) · es gibt = there is/are · der Kuchen (maskulin) = cake. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in."
das Lokal — restaurant / venue (plural: die Lokale)
A general word for any eating/drinking establishment — restaurant, pub, or bar. Broader than "das Restaurant." "Ein gemütliches Lokal" is a cozy spot to eat or drink.
Nom Das Lokal ist voll.
The venue is full.
das Lokal (neutrum) = restaurant/venue · voll = full. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Lokal is the subject.
Akk Wir suchen ein Lokal in der Nähe.
We're looking for a venue nearby.
suchen = to look for · in der Nähe = nearby. "Ein" stays "ein" because neutrum Akkusativ = Nominativ. Lokal is the direct object.
Dat In dem Lokal gibt es Livemusik.
In the venue there is live music.
in = in (+ Dativ, location) · es gibt = there is/are. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in."
die Bank — bench (plural: die Bänke)
Careful — this is a different word from "die Bank" meaning financial bank, even though they're spelled the same (a true homonym, both feminin, but with different plurals: Bänke for bench, Banken for financial bank). Here it means a park or garden bench.
Nom Die Bank steht im Park.
The bench stands in the park.
die Bank (feminin) = bench · stehen = to stand · der Park (maskulin) = park. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Bank is the subject.
Akk Wir suchen die Bank im Schatten.
We're looking for the bench in the shade.
suchen = to look for · der Schatten (maskulin) = shade. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ (feminin doesn't change). Bank is the direct object.
Dat Wir sitzen auf der Bank und machen ein Picknick.
We sit on the bench and have a picnic.
sitzen = to sit · auf = on (+ Dativ, location) · das Picknick (neutrum) = picnic. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "auf."
die Selbstbedienung — self-service (no plural)
A compound of "selbst" (self) + "Bedienung" (service) — the suffix "-ung" makes it feminin. Common in Kaffeehäuser and cafeterias: "Hier ist Selbstbedienung" means you order and collect your own food.
Nom Die Selbstbedienung ist hier üblich.
Self-service is customary here.
die Selbstbedienung (feminin, Singular only) = self-service · üblich = customary/common. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Selbstbedienung is the subject.
Akk Das Café bietet die Selbstbedienung an.
The café offers self-service.
das Café (neutrum) = café · anbieten = to offer. "Die" stays "die" in Akkusativ. Selbstbedienung is the direct object.
Dat Bei der Selbstbedienung gibt es kein Trinkgeld.
With self-service there's no tip.
bei = with/at (always Dativ) · es gibt = there is/are · das Trinkgeld (neutrum) = tip. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "bei."
geöffnet — open (adjective, e.g. of a shop)
The past participle of "öffnen" (to open), used as an adjective describing something as currently open. Its opposite is "geschlossen" (closed) — you'll see both on shop doors constantly.
Nom Das Lokal ist geöffnet.
The venue is open.
das Lokal (neutrum) = restaurant/venue · geöffnet = open. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Lokal is the subject.
Akk Wir finden ein geöffnetes Kaffeehaus.
We find an open coffee house.
finden = to find · das Kaffeehaus (neutrum) = coffee house. "Ein geöffnetes" is neutrum Akkusativ (adjective ending -es for neutrum after "ein"). Kaffeehaus is the direct object.
Dat In dem geöffneten Lokal ist es warm.
In the open venue it's warm.
in = in (+ Dativ, location) · warm = warm. "Dem geöffneten" is neutrum Dativ (das → dem, adjective ending -en after "dem").
draußen — outside
An adverb describing location, the opposite of "drinnen" (inside). "Man kann draußen sitzen" (One can sit outside) — a common phrase describing outdoor seating at a café or restaurant, especially in summer.
Nom Draußen ist das Wetter schön.
Outside, the weather is nice.
draußen = outside · das Wetter (neutrum) = weather · schön = nice/beautiful. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Wetter is the subject.
Akk Wir stellen den Tisch nach draußen.
We put the table outside.
stellen = to put/place · der Tisch (maskulin) = table · draußen = outside. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Tisch is the direct object being moved.
Dat Man kann draußen mit den Freunden sitzen.
One can sit outside with friends.
man = one · können = can · sitzen = to sit · mit = with (+ Dativ) · die Freunde (plural) = friends. "Den Freunden" is plural Dativ (adds -n) after "mit."