Appearance
Netzwerk 7: Work & Tech
Chapter 7 — work life, media/technology, banking, letters, and social life.
Maskulin Feminin Neutrum Plural
das Praktikum — internship
Internships (Praktika) are extremely common in Germany. Many students do several before graduating. The plural is irregular: Praktika (from Latin).
Nom Das Praktikum beginnt im September.
The internship starts in September.
das Praktikum (neutrum) = internship · beginnen = to begin · im = in the (in + dem) · September = September. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Praktikum is the subject.
Akk Ich mache das Praktikum bei Siemens.
I am doing the internship at Siemens.
das Praktikum (neutrum) = internship · machen = to do · bei = at/with. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Praktikum is the direct object.
Dat Sie lernt viel in dem Praktikum.
She learns a lot in the internship.
das Praktikum (neutrum) = internship · lernen = to learn · viel = a lot · in = in. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in" (location).
der Urlaub — vacation
Germans get a minimum of 20 paid vacation days per year by law, and many get 30. "Urlaub machen" means to go on vacation. It is a very important topic in German culture!
Nom Der Urlaub war fantastisch.
The vacation was fantastic.
der Urlaub (maskulin) = vacation · war = was (past of "sein") · fantastisch = fantastic. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Urlaub is the subject.
Akk Wir planen den Urlaub zusammen.
We are planning the vacation together.
der Urlaub (maskulin) = vacation · planen = to plan · zusammen = together. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Urlaub is the direct object.
Dat Er denkt an den Urlaub. Nach dem Urlaub arbeitet er wieder.
He thinks about the vacation. After the vacation he works again.
der Urlaub (maskulin) = vacation · denken an = to think about (+ Akk) · nach = after (+ Dat) · arbeiten = to work · wieder = again. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "nach".
die Pause — break
Germans take their breaks seriously. A "Mittagspause" (lunch break) is usually 30-60 minutes. "Pause machen" is a very common phrase at work and school.
Nom Die Pause ist von 12 bis 13 Uhr.
The break is from 12 to 1 o'clock.
die Pause (feminin) = break · von ... bis = from ... to · Uhr = o'clock. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Pause is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche die Pause jetzt.
I need the break now.
die Pause (feminin) = break · brauchen = to need · jetzt = now. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Pause is the direct object.
Dat Nach der Pause arbeiten wir weiter.
After the break we continue working.
die Pause (feminin) = break · nach = after (+ Dat) · weiterarbeiten = to continue working. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "nach".
der Bericht — report
In German workplaces, writing Berichte (reports) is a common task. The word comes from "berichten" (to report). Plural: Berichte.
Nom Der Bericht ist fertig.
The report is finished.
der Bericht (maskulin) = report · fertig = finished/ready. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Bericht is the subject.
Akk Du schreibst den Bericht morgen.
You write the report tomorrow.
der Bericht (maskulin) = report · schreiben = to write · morgen = tomorrow. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Bericht is the direct object.
Dat Die Chefin ist mit dem Bericht zufrieden.
The boss is satisfied with the report.
der Bericht (maskulin) = report · die Chefin (feminin) = boss (female) · zufrieden = satisfied · mit = with (+ Dat). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
die Datei — file (digital)
Datei refers specifically to a computer file. It comes from "Daten" (data). For a physical folder or file, Germans say "der Ordner" or "die Akte".
Nom Die Datei ist zu groß.
The file is too large.
die Datei (feminin) = file · zu = too · groß = large/big. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Datei is the subject.
Akk Ich speichere die Datei auf dem Computer.
I save the file on the computer.
die Datei (feminin) = file · speichern = to save · auf = on · der Computer (maskulin) = computer. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Datei is the direct object.
Dat Es gibt einen Fehler in der Datei.
There is a mistake in the file.
die Datei (feminin) = file · es gibt = there is · einen Fehler = a mistake (maskulin Akk) · in = in (+ Dat for location). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in".
das Passwort — password
The plural is irregular: Passwörter (with umlaut). In Germany, data privacy (Datenschutz) is taken very seriously, so you will hear this word often when signing up for anything.
Nom Das Passwort ist falsch.
The password is wrong.
das Passwort (neutrum) = password · falsch = wrong/incorrect. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Passwort is the subject.
Akk Bitte geben Sie das Passwort ein.
Please enter the password.
das Passwort (neutrum) = password · bitte = please · eingeben = to enter/type in (separable verb: geben ... ein) · Sie = you (formal). "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Passwort is the direct object.
Dat Es gibt ein Problem mit dem Passwort.
There is a problem with the password.
das Passwort (neutrum) = password · es gibt = there is · ein Problem = a problem (neutrum) · mit = with (+ Dat). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit".
der Drucker — printer
Drucker comes from "drucken" (to print). Adding -er to a verb stem to make the tool/person who does the action is a very common German pattern: fahren → Fahrer (driver), lesen → Leser (reader).
Nom Der Drucker funktioniert nicht.
The printer is not working.
der Drucker (maskulin) = printer · funktionieren = to work/function · nicht = not. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Drucker is the subject.
Akk Wir brauchen den Drucker heute.
We need the printer today.
der Drucker (maskulin) = printer · brauchen = to need · heute = today. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Drucker is the direct object.
Dat Das Papier ist in dem Drucker.
The paper is in the printer.
der Drucker (maskulin) = printer · das Papier (neutrum) = paper · in = in (+ Dat for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in".
das Konto — (bank) account
The plural is irregular: Konten (from Italian "conto"). Opening a Konto is one of the first things you do when moving to Germany. A "Girokonto" is a checking account.
Nom Das Konto ist neu.
The account is new.
das Konto (neutrum) = account · neu = new. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Konto is the subject.
Akk Er eröffnet das Konto bei der Sparkasse.
He opens the account at the Sparkasse.
das Konto (neutrum) = account · eröffnen = to open (an account) · bei = at · die Sparkasse (feminin) = savings bank. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Konto is the direct object.
Dat Das Geld ist auf dem Konto.
The money is in the account.
das Konto (neutrum) = account · das Geld (neutrum) = money · auf = on/in (+ Dat for location). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "auf".
die Kreditkarte — credit card
Germany is still largely a cash (bar) society compared to other countries. Many restaurants and smaller shops do not accept Kreditkarten. The phrase "Kann ich mit Karte zahlen?" (Can I pay by card?) is very useful.
Nom Die Kreditkarte funktioniert hier nicht.
The credit card does not work here.
die Kreditkarte (feminin) = credit card · funktionieren = to work/function · hier = here · nicht = not. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Kreditkarte is the subject.
Akk Hast du die Kreditkarte dabei?
Do you have the credit card with you?
die Kreditkarte (feminin) = credit card · haben = to have (hast = du-form) · dabei = with you/on you. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Kreditkarte is the direct object.
Dat Ich bezahle mit der Kreditkarte.
I pay with the credit card.
die Kreditkarte (feminin) = credit card · bezahlen = to pay · mit = with (+ Dat). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
der Brief — letter
Formal letters are still important in Germany for official matters. They always end with "Mit freundlichen Grussen" (Best regards). The plural is Briefe.
Nom Der Brief kommt morgen.
The letter arrives tomorrow.
der Brief (maskulin) = letter · kommen = to come/arrive · morgen = tomorrow. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Brief is the subject.
Akk Sie schreibt den Brief auf Deutsch.
She writes the letter in German.
der Brief (maskulin) = letter · schreiben = to write · auf Deutsch = in German. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Brief is the direct object.
Dat Die Unterschrift fehlt in dem Brief.
The signature is missing in the letter.
der Brief (maskulin) = letter · die Unterschrift (feminin) = signature · fehlen = to be missing · in = in (+ Dat for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in".
das Mitglied — member
Germans love clubs and associations (Vereine). There are Vereine for sports, music, gardening, and almost everything. Being a Mitglied of a Verein is a great way to meet people.
Nom Das Mitglied ist seit zwei Jahren im Club.
The member has been in the club for two years.
das Mitglied (neutrum) = member · seit = since/for (+ Dat) · zwei Jahren = two years (Dat plural) · im = in the (in + dem). "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Mitglied is the subject.
Akk Wir suchen das Mitglied aus der Liste.
We are looking for the member from the list.
das Mitglied (neutrum) = member · suchen = to look for/search · aus = from (+ Dat) · die Liste (feminin) = list. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Mitglied is the direct object.
Dat Der Trainer spricht mit dem Mitglied.
The trainer speaks with the member.
das Mitglied (neutrum) = member · der Trainer (maskulin) = trainer · sprechen = to speak · mit = with (+ Dat). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit".
der Aufzug — elevator
Aufzug literally means "pulling up." In Austria, they say "der Lift." The Aufzug is a classic small-talk location in Germany. Remember: Germans count floors differently — "Erdgeschoss" (ground floor) is floor 0, not 1!
Nom Der Aufzug ist kaputt.
The elevator is broken.
der Aufzug (maskulin) = elevator · kaputt = broken. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Aufzug is the subject.
Akk Ich nehme den Aufzug in den dritten Stock.
I take the elevator to the third floor.
der Aufzug (maskulin) = elevator · nehmen = to take · in = to (+ Akk for direction) · der dritte Stock = the third floor. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Aufzug is the direct object.
Dat Wir warten vor dem Aufzug.
We wait in front of the elevator.
der Aufzug (maskulin) = elevator · warten = to wait · vor = in front of (+ Dat for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "vor".
die Präsentation — presentation
Words ending in -tion are always feminin in German and always stressed on the last syllable: PräsentaTION. This rule works for hundreds of words: Information, Situation, Kommunikation.
Nom Die Präsentation dauert 20 Minuten.
The presentation lasts 20 minutes.
die Präsentation (feminin) = presentation · dauern = to last/take (time) · Minuten = minutes. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Präsentation is the subject.
Akk Er macht die Präsentation am Freitag.
He gives the presentation on Friday.
die Präsentation (feminin) = presentation · machen = to do/give · am Freitag = on Friday (an + dem). "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Präsentation is the direct object.
Dat Die Kollegin hilft mir bei der Präsentation.
The colleague helps me with the presentation.
die Präsentation (feminin) = presentation · die Kollegin (feminin) = colleague (female) · helfen = to help (+ Dat) · mir = me (Dat) · bei = with/at (+ Dat). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "bei".
speichern — to save (data)
Speichern is used specifically for saving digital data. For saving money, you use "sparen." The noun form is "der Speicher" (memory/storage).
Nom Der Computer speichert die Datei automatisch.
The computer saves the file automatically.
speichern = to save · der Computer (maskulin) = computer · die Datei (feminin) = file · automatisch = automatically. Der Computer is the Nominativ subject; die Datei is the Akkusativ object of speichern.
Akk Ich speichere den Bericht auf dem Computer.
I save the report on the computer.
speichern = to save · der Bericht (maskulin) = report · auf = on (+ Dat for location). "Den" — maskulin Akkusativ (direct object). "Dem" — maskulin Dativ after "auf".
Dat Du kannst die Fotos auf dem Handy speichern.
You can save the photos on the phone.
speichern = to save · können = can (kannst = du-form) · die Fotos (plural) = photos · das Handy (neutrum) = mobile phone · auf = on (+ Dat). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "auf".
überweisen — to transfer (money)
Bank transfers (Überweisungen) are the most common way to pay in Germany — rent, bills, and even paying friends. Germans rarely use checks. You will need your IBAN number for every transfer.
Nom Die Bank überweist das Geld heute.
The bank transfers the money today.
überweisen = to transfer · die Bank (feminin) = bank · das Geld (neutrum) = money · heute = today. Bank is Nominativ (subject). Geld is Akkusativ (direct object).
Akk Ich überweise die Miete jeden Monat.
I transfer the rent every month.
überweisen = to transfer · die Miete (feminin) = rent · jeden Monat = every month (maskulin Akk). "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Miete is the direct object.
Dat Er überweist das Geld von dem Konto.
He transfers the money from the account.
überweisen = to transfer · das Geld (neutrum) = money · von = from (+ Dat) · das Konto (neutrum) = account. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "von".
der Arbeitsalltag — everyday work life
Compound noun: Arbeit (work) + Alltag (everyday life) = the daily grind of a job, as opposed to special events like a Meeting or eine Dienstreise. Used mostly in the singular.
Nom Der Arbeitsalltag beginnt um acht Uhr.
The work routine begins at eight o'clock.
der Arbeitsalltag (maskulin) = everyday work life · beginnen = to begin · um = at (time). "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Arbeitsalltag is the subject.
Akk Ich beschreibe den Arbeitsalltag als Krankenpfleger.
I describe the everyday work life as a nurse.
der Arbeitsalltag (maskulin) = everyday work life · beschreiben = to describe · der Krankenpfleger (maskulin) = nurse (male). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Arbeitsalltag is the direct object.
Dat Nach dem Arbeitsalltag bin ich müde.
After the work day I am tired.
der Arbeitsalltag (maskulin) = everyday work life · nach = after (+ Dat) · müde = tired. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "nach".
der Bäcker — baker
The male form of a classic German trade; the feminine is die Bäckerin. Germans buy fresh Brötchen from the Bäckerei (bakery) almost every morning — a real daily ritual.
Nom Der Bäcker backt jeden Morgen frisches Brot.
The baker bakes fresh bread every morning.
der Bäcker (maskulin) = baker · backen = to bake · frisch = fresh · das Brot (neutrum) = bread. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Bäcker is the subject.
Akk Ich besuche den Bäcker jeden Morgen.
I visit the baker every morning.
der Bäcker (maskulin) = baker · besuchen = to visit. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Bäcker is the direct object.
Dat Ich kaufe Brötchen bei dem Bäcker.
I buy bread rolls at the baker's.
der Bäcker (maskulin) = baker · kaufen = to buy · das Brötchen (neutrum) = bread roll · bei = at (+ Dat). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "bei". Often contracted to "beim Bäcker".
der Zahnarzt — dentist (male)
Compound: Zahn (tooth) + Arzt (doctor). The feminine form is die Zahnärztin, with an umlaut added (a → ä) before -in, as with most professions.
Nom Der Zahnarzt untersucht die Zähne.
The dentist examines the teeth.
der Zahnarzt (maskulin) = dentist · untersuchen = to examine · der Zahn (maskulin) → die Zähne (plural) = teeth. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Zahnarzt is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche den Zahnarzt heute.
I need the dentist today.
der Zahnarzt (maskulin) = dentist · brauchen = to need · heute = today. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Zahnarzt is the direct object.
Dat Ich gehe zu dem Zahnarzt.
I am going to the dentist.
der Zahnarzt (maskulin) = dentist · gehen = to go · zu = to (+ Dat). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "zu". Often contracted to "zum Zahnarzt".
die Zahnärztin — dentist (female)
The feminine form of der Zahnarzt — the stem vowel gets an umlaut (a → ä) before the -in ending is added, a common pattern for professions ending in -arzt.
Nom Die Zahnärztin arbeitet in der Praxis.
The dentist (f.) works at the practice.
die Zahnärztin (feminin) = dentist (female) · arbeiten = to work · die Praxis (feminin) = (medical) practice. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Zahnärztin is the subject.
Akk Ich frage die Zahnärztin.
I ask the dentist (f.).
die Zahnärztin (feminin) = dentist (female) · fragen = to ask. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Zahnärztin is the direct object.
Dat Ich vertraue der Zahnärztin.
I trust the dentist (f.).
die Zahnärztin (feminin) = dentist (female) · vertrauen = to trust (+ Dat). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der). "Vertrauen" always takes a Dativ object.
der Hausmeister — janitor / caretaker
Literally "house master." The Hausmeister maintains an apartment building — fixing things, enforcing the Hausordnung (house rules), and usually the first person tenants call about repairs.
Nom Der Hausmeister repariert die Heizung.
The caretaker repairs the heating.
der Hausmeister (maskulin) = janitor/caretaker · reparieren = to repair · die Heizung (feminin) = heating. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Hausmeister is the subject.
Akk Wir rufen den Hausmeister an.
We call the caretaker.
der Hausmeister (maskulin) = janitor/caretaker · anrufen = to call (separable: rufen … an). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Hausmeister is the direct object.
Dat Wir sprechen mit dem Hausmeister.
We speak with the caretaker.
der Hausmeister (maskulin) = janitor/caretaker · sprechen = to speak · mit = with (+ Dat). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
der Mitarbeiter — employee (male)
Compound: mit (with) + Arbeiter (worker) = colleague/employee. Feminine form: die Mitarbeiterin. The plural die Mitarbeiter often refers to staff in general, regardless of gender.
Nom Der Mitarbeiter kommt pünktlich.
The employee arrives on time.
der Mitarbeiter (maskulin) = employee (male) · kommen = to come/arrive · pünktlich = punctual/on time. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Mitarbeiter is the subject.
Akk Wir stellen den Mitarbeiter ein.
We hire the employee.
der Mitarbeiter (maskulin) = employee (male) · einstellen = to hire (separable: stellen … ein). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Mitarbeiter is the direct object.
Dat Der Chef dankt dem Mitarbeiter.
The boss thanks the employee.
der Mitarbeiter (maskulin) = employee (male) · der Chef (maskulin) = boss · danken = to thank (+ Dat). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem). "Danken" always takes a Dativ object.
die Mitarbeiterin — employee (female)
The feminine form of der Mitarbeiter — simply add -in, no umlaut change needed here.
Nom Die Mitarbeiterin plant das Projekt.
The employee (f.) plans the project.
die Mitarbeiterin (feminin) = employee (female) · planen = to plan · das Projekt (neutrum) = project. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Mitarbeiterin is the subject.
Akk Wir stellen die Mitarbeiterin ein.
We hire the employee (f.).
die Mitarbeiterin (feminin) = employee (female) · einstellen = to hire (separable). "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Mitarbeiterin is the direct object.
Dat Der Chef dankt der Mitarbeiterin.
The boss thanks the employee (f.).
die Mitarbeiterin (feminin) = employee (female) · danken = to thank (+ Dat). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der). "Danken" always takes a Dativ object.
erklären — to explain
A regular verb: ich erkläre, du erklärst, er/sie erklärt. Takes an Akkusativ object for the thing explained, and an optional Dativ for the person: "Ich erkläre der Kollegin das Problem" (I explain the problem to the colleague).
Nom Die Lehrerin erklärt die Grammatik.
The teacher (f.) explains the grammar.
die Lehrerin (feminin) = female teacher · erklären = to explain → erklärt (sie form) · die Grammatik (feminin) = grammar. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Lehrerin is the subject.
Akk Ich erkläre den Fehler.
I explain the mistake.
erklären = to explain → erkläre (ich form) · der Fehler (maskulin) = mistake. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Fehler is the direct object.
Dat Er erklärt der Kollegin das Problem.
He explains the problem to the colleague.
erklären = to explain → erklärt (er form) · die Kollegin (feminin) = colleague (female) · das Problem (neutrum) = problem. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der). Kollegin is the indirect object — the person being told.
der Fehler — mistake
From "fehlen" (to be missing/lacking). "Einen Fehler machen" = to make a mistake. The plural has no ending change: die Fehler.
Nom Der Fehler ist klein.
The mistake is small.
der Fehler (maskulin) = mistake · klein = small. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Fehler is the subject.
Akk Ich korrigiere den Fehler.
I correct the mistake.
der Fehler (maskulin) = mistake · korrigieren = to correct. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Fehler is the direct object.
Dat Ich lerne aus dem Fehler.
I learn from the mistake.
der Fehler (maskulin) = mistake · lernen = to learn · aus = from/out of (always Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "aus".
korrigieren — to correct
A Latin-derived -ieren verb: no "ge-" in the past participle (korrigiert, not "gekorrigiert"). Teachers korrigieren Hausaufgaben; you korrigieren your own Fehler.
Nom Der Lehrer korrigiert die Hausaufgabe.
The teacher corrects the homework.
der Lehrer (maskulin) = male teacher · korrigieren = to correct → korrigiert (er form) · die Hausaufgabe (feminin) = homework. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Lehrer is the subject.
Akk Ich korrigiere den Bericht.
I correct the report.
korrigieren = to correct → korrigiere (ich form) · der Bericht (maskulin) = report. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Bericht is the direct object.
Dat Ich korrigiere den Fehler in dem Text.
I correct the mistake in the text.
korrigieren = to correct → korrigiere (ich form) · der Text (maskulin) = text · in = in (+ Dat for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in".
interessieren — to interest
Most often used reflexively: "sich interessieren für" (+ Akkusativ) = to be interested in. Also works impersonally, with the thing as subject: "Das interessiert mich" = That interests me.
Nom Die Politik interessiert mich nicht.
Politics doesn't interest me.
die Politik (feminin) = politics · interessieren = to interest → interessiert (sie form) · mich = me (Akk). "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Politik is the subject doing the interesting.
Akk Ich interessiere mich für den Small Talk.
I am interested in small talk.
sich interessieren für = to be interested in → interessiere mich (ich form, reflexive) · der Small Talk (maskulin) = small talk · für = for (always Akkusativ). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) after "für".
Dat Wir sprechen mit der Kollegin über das Thema, das sie interessiert.
We talk with the colleague about the topic that interests her.
sprechen = to speak · die Kollegin (feminin) = colleague (female) · mit = with (+ Dat) · interessieren = to interest. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
diskutieren — to discuss
Another -ieren verb (no "ge-" in the participle: diskutiert). "Diskutieren über" (+ Akkusativ) = to discuss about something, though English drops the "about".
Nom Die Gruppe diskutiert die Frage.
The group discusses the question.
die Gruppe (feminin) = group · diskutieren = to discuss → diskutiert (sie form) · die Frage (feminin) = question. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Gruppe is the subject.
Akk Wir diskutieren den Vorschlag.
We discuss the proposal.
diskutieren = to discuss → diskutieren (wir form) · der Vorschlag (maskulin) = proposal. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Vorschlag is the direct object.
Dat Wir diskutieren mit der Mitarbeiterin.
We discuss with the employee (f.).
diskutieren = to discuss → diskutieren (wir form) · die Mitarbeiterin (feminin) = employee (female) · mit = with (always Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
die Medien — media (Pl.)
Plural of das Medium. Almost always used in the plural to mean "the media" — TV, internet, and press together. Dativ plural normally adds -n, but Medien already ends in -n, so it stays the same: den Medien.
Nom Die Medien berichten viel darüber.
The media report a lot about it.
die Medien (Plural) = media · berichten = to report · viel = a lot. "Die" — Plural Nominativ. Medien is the subject.
Akk Ich beobachte die Medien kritisch.
I observe the media critically.
die Medien (Plural) = media · beobachten = to observe · kritisch = critically. "Die" stays "die" because Plural Akkusativ (die → die). Medien is the direct object.
Dat Er arbeitet bei den Medien.
He works in (the) media.
die Medien (Plural) = media · arbeiten = to work · bei = at/in (+ Dat). "Den" because Plural Dativ (die → den), but Medien already ends in -n so no extra -n is added.
hochfahren, er fährt hoch — to boot up (a computer)
Separable verb: hoch + fahren, with the same stem change as fahren (du fährst, er fährt hoch). Used specifically for booting up a computer. Opposite: herunterfahren (to shut down).
Nom Der Computer fährt langsam hoch.
The computer boots up slowly.
der Computer (maskulin) = computer · hochfahren = to boot up → fährt … hoch (er form, separable) · langsam = slowly. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Computer is the subject.
Akk Ich fahre den Computer hoch.
I boot up the computer.
hochfahren = to boot up → fahre … hoch (ich form, separable) · der Computer (maskulin) = computer. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Computer is the direct object.
Dat Nach dem Update fährt der Computer wieder hoch.
After the update, the computer boots up again.
hochfahren = to boot up · das Update (neutrum) = update · nach = after (always Dativ) · wieder = again. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "nach".
anmachen — to turn on
Separable verb: an + machen. Used for switching on lights, appliances, and devices. Opposite: ausmachen.
Nom Der Mitarbeiter macht das Licht an.
The employee turns the light on.
der Mitarbeiter (maskulin) = employee (male) · anmachen = to turn on → macht … an (er form, separable) · das Licht (neutrum) = light. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Mitarbeiter is the subject.
Akk Ich mache den Drucker an.
I turn the printer on.
anmachen = to turn on → mache … an (ich form, separable) · der Drucker (maskulin) = printer. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Drucker is the direct object.
Dat Sie steht vor dem Computer und macht ihn an.
She stands in front of the computer and turns it on.
anmachen = to turn on · der Computer (maskulin) = computer · vor = in front of (+ Dat for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "vor".
ausmachen — to turn off
Separable verb: aus + machen. The opposite of anmachen — used to turn off lights, devices, or even to put out a cigarette.
Nom Der Chef macht das Licht aus.
The boss turns the light off.
der Chef (maskulin) = boss · ausmachen = to turn off → macht … aus (er form, separable) · das Licht (neutrum) = light. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Chef is the subject.
Akk Ich mache den Fernseher aus.
I turn the TV off.
ausmachen = to turn off → mache … aus (ich form, separable) · der Fernseher (maskulin) = television. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Fernseher is the direct object.
Dat Mach das Licht aus, bevor du aus dem Büro gehst.
Turn off the light before you leave the office.
ausmachen = to turn off · das Büro (neutrum) = office · aus = out of (always Dativ) · bevor = before. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "aus".
öffnen — to open (a file)
A regular verb: ich öffne, du öffnest, er/sie öffnet. Used for opening files, doors, and windows alike — unlike English, no separate word is needed for digital vs. physical opening.
Nom Der Mitarbeiter öffnet die Datei.
The employee opens the file.
der Mitarbeiter (maskulin) = employee (male) · öffnen = to open → öffnet (er form) · die Datei (feminin) = file. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Mitarbeiter is the subject.
Akk Ich öffne den Anhang.
I open the attachment.
öffnen = to open → öffne (ich form) · der Anhang (maskulin) = attachment. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Anhang is the direct object.
Dat Er öffnet die Datei auf dem Computer.
He opens the file on the computer.
öffnen = to open · der Computer (maskulin) = computer · auf = on (+ Dat for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "auf".
drucken — to print
A regular verb, from which der Drucker (printer) is formed with -er. Don't confuse it with "drücken" (to press) — different vowel, different meaning!
Nom Der Drucker druckt schnell.
The printer prints quickly.
der Drucker (maskulin) = printer · drucken = to print → druckt (er form) · schnell = quickly. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Drucker is the subject.
Akk Ich drucke den Bericht.
I print the report.
drucken = to print → drucke (ich form) · der Bericht (maskulin) = report. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Bericht is the direct object.
Dat Ich drucke das Dokument auf dem Drucker.
I print the document on the printer.
drucken = to print · das Dokument (neutrum) = document · der Drucker (maskulin) = printer · auf = on (+ Dat for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "auf".
eingeben, er gibt ein — to enter / to type in
Separable verb with a stem change: ein + geben (du gibst ein, er gibt ein). Used for typing in passwords, PINs, and data — "geben" alone just means "to give."
Nom Der Kunde gibt die Nummer ein.
The customer enters the number.
der Kunde (maskulin) = customer · eingeben = to enter/type in → gibt … ein (er form, separable, stem change e → i) · die Nummer (feminin) = number. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Kunde is the subject.
Akk Ich gebe die Kontonummer ein.
I enter the account number.
eingeben = to enter/type in → gebe … ein (ich form, separable) · die Kontonummer (feminin) = account number. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Kontonummer is the direct object.
Dat Ich gebe die PIN mit dem Finger ein.
I enter the PIN with my finger.
eingeben = to enter/type in · der Finger (maskulin) = finger · mit = with (always Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
der Blog — blog
A modern loanword, maskulin like most English tech borrowings ending in a consonant. Plural: die Blogs.
Nom Der Blog ist sehr populär.
The blog is very popular.
der Blog (maskulin) = blog · populär = popular. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Blog is the subject.
Akk Ich lese den Blog jeden Tag.
I read the blog every day.
der Blog (maskulin) = blog · lesen = to read · jeden Tag = every day. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Blog is the direct object.
Dat Ich schreibe einen Kommentar in dem Blog.
I write a comment on the blog.
der Blog (maskulin) = blog · schreiben = to write · der Kommentar (maskulin) = comment · in = in/on (+ Dat for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in".
der Akku — battery
Short for "Akkumulator." Refers to a rechargeable battery (in a phone, laptop, car); a single-use battery is "die Batterie."
Nom Der Akku ist leer.
The battery is empty.
der Akku (maskulin) = battery · leer = empty. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Akku is the subject.
Akk Ich lade den Akku.
I charge the battery.
der Akku (maskulin) = battery · laden = to charge/load. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Akku is the direct object.
Dat Es gibt ein Problem mit dem Akku.
There is a problem with the battery.
der Akku (maskulin) = battery · es gibt = there is · ein Problem = a problem (neutrum) · mit = with (+ Dat). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
leer — empty
A common adjective — the opposite of "voll" (full). "Der Akku ist leer" is something you'll say constantly about your phone in German!
Nom Der Akku ist leer.
The battery is empty.
der Akku (maskulin) = battery · leer = empty. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Akku is the subject.
Akk Ich sehe den leeren Akku.
I see the empty battery (indicator).
sehen = to see · der Akku (maskulin) = battery · leer → leeren (attributive ending -en after "den", maskulin Akkusativ). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Akku is the direct object.
Dat Bei leerem Akku funktioniert das Handy nicht.
With an empty battery, the phone doesn't work.
bei = with/in the case of (+ Dat) · der Akku (maskulin) = battery · funktionieren = to work/function. "Leerem" — maskulin Dativ with no article takes the strong ending -em, matching "dem".
das WLAN — wifi
Pronounced "VEY-lahn," this is the German term for Wi-Fi (from Wireless LAN). Always neuter and almost always used without a plural.
Nom Das WLAN funktioniert nicht.
The wifi is not working.
das WLAN (neutrum) = wifi · funktionieren = to work/function · nicht = not. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. WLAN is the subject.
Akk Wir brauchen das WLAN für die Präsentation.
We need the wifi for the presentation.
das WLAN (neutrum) = wifi · brauchen = to need · die Präsentation (feminin) = presentation. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). WLAN is the direct object.
Dat Ich verbinde mich mit dem WLAN.
I connect to the wifi.
das WLAN (neutrum) = wifi · sich verbinden = to connect · mit = with (always Dativ). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit".
das Netz — network
Literally "net" or "network" — used both for mobile signal ("kein Netz" = no signal) and the internet in general ("im Netz" = online).
Nom Das Netz ist hier schlecht.
The signal is bad here.
das Netz (neutrum) = network/signal · schlecht = bad. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Netz is the subject.
Akk Ich habe kein Netz.
I have no signal.
das Netz (neutrum) = network/signal · haben = to have · kein = no/not any. "Kein Netz" stays unchanged because neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Netz is the direct object.
Dat Ich suche eine Verbindung zu dem Netz.
I am looking for a connection to the network.
das Netz (neutrum) = network · die Verbindung (feminin) = connection · zu = to (+ Dat). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "zu".
offline — offline
A modern loanword, invariable, used just like in English. Its opposite, online, is just as common in everyday German.
Nom Der Drucker ist offline.
The printer is offline.
der Drucker (maskulin) = printer · offline = offline. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Drucker is the subject.
Akk Ich benutze den Computer offline, wenn ich kein WLAN habe.
I use the computer offline when I have no wifi.
benutzen = to use · der Computer (maskulin) = computer · offline = offline. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Computer is the direct object.
Dat Ich arbeite offline an dem Bericht.
I work offline on the report.
arbeiten an = to work on (+ Dat) · der Bericht (maskulin) = report · offline = offline. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "an" with "arbeiten an".
die Bank — bank (financial institution)
Feminine, plural die Banken. Careful: "die Bank" can also mean "bench" (a seat) — a completely different, unrelated word that happens to be spelled the same; context tells them apart.
Nom Die Bank ist um neun Uhr geöffnet.
The bank is open at nine o'clock.
die Bank (feminin) = bank · geöffnet = open. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Bank is the subject.
Akk Ich besuche die Bank.
I visit the bank.
die Bank (feminin) = bank · besuchen = to visit. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Bank is the direct object.
Dat Ich hole Geld bei der Bank.
I get money at the bank.
die Bank (feminin) = bank · holen = to fetch/get · das Geld (neutrum) = money · bei = at (+ Dat). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "bei".
der Automat — vending machine / ATM
A weak (n-declension) masculine noun: der Automat, den Automaten, dem Automaten, die Automaten — it adds -en in every case except Nominativ singular. Covers vending machines, ticket machines, and cash machines (Geldautomat).
Nom Der Automat funktioniert nicht.
The machine is not working.
der Automat (maskulin) = vending machine/ATM · funktionieren = to work/function. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Automat is the subject.
Akk Ich benutze den Automaten.
I use the machine.
der Automat (maskulin) = vending machine/ATM · benutzen = to use. "Den Automaten" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) plus the weak noun ending -en. Automat is the direct object.
Dat Ich hole Geld an dem Automaten.
I get money at the machine.
der Automat (maskulin) = vending machine/ATM · holen = to fetch/get · an = at (+ Dat for location). "Dem Automaten" — maskulin Dativ (der → dem) plus the weak noun ending -en.
holen — to fetch / to get
A regular verb meaning to fetch or go get something. "Ich muss noch Geld holen" (I still need to get money) is a classic everyday sentence.
Nom Der Mitarbeiter holt die Post.
The employee gets the mail.
der Mitarbeiter (maskulin) = employee (male) · holen = to fetch/get → holt (er form) · die Post (feminin) = mail. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Mitarbeiter is the subject.
Akk Ich hole das Geld.
I get the money.
holen = to fetch/get → hole (ich form) · das Geld (neutrum) = money. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Geld is the direct object.
Dat Sie holt das Paket von dem Nachbarn.
She gets the package from the neighbor.
holen = to fetch/get · das Paket (neutrum) = package · der Nachbar (maskulin) = neighbor · von = from (always Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "von".
die Kontonummer — account number
Compound: Konto (account) + Nummer (number). Modern banking has largely replaced this with the IBAN, but Kontonummer is still used colloquially.
Nom Die Kontonummer ist lang.
The account number is long.
die Kontonummer (feminin) = account number · lang = long. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Kontonummer is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche die Kontonummer.
I need the account number.
die Kontonummer (feminin) = account number · brauchen = to need. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Kontonummer is the direct object.
Dat Ich frage nach der Kontonummer.
I ask for the account number.
die Kontonummer (feminin) = account number · fragen nach = to ask for (always Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "nach".
bar — cash
An adverb meaning "in cash." Germany is still a cash-heavy society — "Zahlen Sie bar oder mit Karte?" (Cash or card?) is a question you'll hear constantly.
Nom Der Kunde zahlt bar.
The customer pays in cash.
der Kunde (maskulin) = customer · zahlen = to pay · bar = in cash. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Kunde is the subject.
Akk Ich bezahle die Rechnung bar.
I pay the bill in cash.
bezahlen = to pay · die Rechnung (feminin) = bill · bar = in cash. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Rechnung is the direct object.
Dat Zahlen Sie bar oder mit der Kreditkarte?
Are you paying in cash or by credit card?
zahlen = to pay · die Kreditkarte (feminin) = credit card · mit = with (always Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
die Post — post office / mail
Feminine, always singular. Refers both to the postal service/post office and to the mail itself: "Die Post ist da" = The mail has arrived.
Nom Die Post kommt um zwölf Uhr.
The mail arrives at twelve o'clock.
die Post (feminin) = post office/mail · kommen = to come/arrive. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Post is the subject.
Akk Ich hole die Post.
I get the mail.
die Post (feminin) = mail · holen = to fetch/get. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Post is the direct object.
Dat Ich gehe zu der Post.
I am going to the post office.
die Post (feminin) = post office · gehen = to go · zu = to (+ Dat). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "zu". Often contracted to "zur Post".
der Absender — sender
The sender of a letter or package, written in the top corner. Formed from "absenden" (to send off) + -er, the standard German agent-noun pattern.
Nom Der Absender ist unbekannt.
The sender is unknown.
der Absender (maskulin) = sender · unbekannt = unknown. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Absender is the subject.
Akk Ich kenne den Absender nicht.
I don't know the sender.
der Absender (maskulin) = sender · kennen = to know (be familiar with). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Absender is the direct object.
Dat Ich danke dem Absender für den Brief.
I thank the sender for the letter.
der Absender (maskulin) = sender · danken = to thank (+ Dat) · der Brief (maskulin) = letter. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem). "Danken" always takes a Dativ object.
der Empfänger — recipient
Formed from "empfangen" (to receive) + -er. Also used for a radio/TV receiver device.
Nom Der Empfänger bekommt den Brief.
The recipient gets the letter.
der Empfänger (maskulin) = recipient · bekommen = to get/receive · der Brief (maskulin) = letter. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Empfänger is the subject.
Akk Ich kenne den Empfänger nicht.
I don't know the recipient.
der Empfänger (maskulin) = recipient · kennen = to know (be familiar with). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Empfänger is the direct object.
Dat Der Brief kommt von dem Empfänger zurück.
The letter comes back from the recipient.
der Empfänger (maskulin) = recipient · der Brief (maskulin) = letter · zurückkommen = to come back · von = from (always Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "von".
an — to (preposition)
A two-way preposition: + Akkusativ for direction ("schreiben an" = write to), + Dativ for static location ("an der Wand" = on the wall). In letters, "an" introduces the addressee: "Ich schreibe einen Brief an Frau Müller."
Nom Der Brief geht an Frau Müller.
The letter goes to Mrs. Müller.
der Brief (maskulin) = letter · gehen = to go · an = to. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Brief is the subject.
Akk Ich schreibe einen Brief an den Empfänger.
I am writing a letter to the recipient.
schreiben = to write · der Empfänger (maskulin) = recipient · an = to (+ Akk for direction). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) after "an" here.
Dat Das Bild hängt an der Wand.
The picture hangs on the wall.
hängen = to hang · die Wand (feminin) = wall · an = on/at (+ Dat for static location). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "an" here — contrast with the Akkusativ use above for direction.
Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren, … — Dear Sir or Madam
The standard, ultra-formal opening for a letter when you don't know the recipient's name — equivalent to "Dear Sir or Madam." Always followed by a comma, and the letter continues on a new line with a lowercase letter.
Nom Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren, — der Brief beginnt formell.
Dear Sir or Madam, — the letter begins formally.
Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren = Dear Sir or Madam · der Brief (maskulin) = letter · beginnen = to begin · formell = formal(ly). "Der" — maskulin Nominativ; Brief is the subject of "beginnt formell".
Akk Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren, ich schreibe den Brief an die Firma.
Dear Sir or Madam, I am writing the letter to the company.
schreiben = to write · der Brief (maskulin) = letter · die Firma (feminin) = company. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Brief is the direct object.
Dat Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren, vielen Dank für die Informationen zu dem Angebot.
Dear Sir or Madam, thank you for the information about the offer.
vielen Dank = thank you very much · die Information (feminin) = information · das Angebot (neutrum) = offer · zu = about/regarding (+ Dat). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "zu".
Mit freundlichen Grüßen — best regards
The standard formal letter closing — equivalent to "Best regards" or "Sincerely." Your name goes on the next line. A less formal alternative among colleagues is "Viele Grüße."
Nom Mit freundlichen Grüßen — so endet der Brief.
Best regards — that's how the letter ends.
Mit freundlichen Grüßen = best regards · der Brief (maskulin) = letter · enden = to end. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ; Brief is the subject of "endet so".
Akk Ich schreibe "Mit freundlichen Grüßen" und beende den Brief.
I write "Best regards" and finish the letter.
schreiben = to write · beenden = to finish · der Brief (maskulin) = letter. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Brief is the direct object.
Dat Mit freundlichen Grüßen aus dem Büro.
Best regards from the office.
Mit freundlichen Grüßen = best regards · das Büro (neutrum) = office · aus = from (always Dativ). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "aus".
die Unterschrift — signature
Compound: unter (under) + Schrift (writing) = "under-writing," i.e. signature. "Unterschreiben" is the corresponding verb (to sign).
Nom Die Unterschrift ist wichtig.
The signature is important.
die Unterschrift (feminin) = signature · wichtig = important. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Unterschrift is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche die Unterschrift.
I need the signature.
die Unterschrift (feminin) = signature · brauchen = to need. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Unterschrift is the direct object.
Dat Ich suche nach der Unterschrift.
I am looking for the signature.
die Unterschrift (feminin) = signature · suchen nach = to look for (always Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "nach".
kennenlernen — to get to know (a person)
Separable verb: kennen + lernen, literally "to learn to know." Used for meeting people for the first time — "Ich lerne dich gern kennen" is a natural way to say "nice to meet you."
Nom Der Kollege lernt die Stadt kennen.
The colleague gets to know the city.
der Kollege (maskulin) = colleague (male) · kennenlernen = to get to know → lernt … kennen (er form, separable) · die Stadt (feminin) = city. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Kollege is the subject.
Akk Ich lerne den Kontakt kennen.
I get to know the contact.
kennenlernen = to get to know → lerne … kennen (ich form, separable) · der Kontakt (maskulin) = contact. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Kontakt is the direct object.
Dat Wir lernen uns bei der Musikgruppe kennen.
We get to know each other at the music group.
kennenlernen = to get to know (each other) · die Musikgruppe (feminin) = music group · bei = at (+ Dat). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "bei".
der Kontakt — contact
A modern loanword, maskulin, plural die Kontakte. "Kontakt aufnehmen" (to make contact) is a common fixed phrase.
Nom Der Kontakt ist neu.
The contact is new.
der Kontakt (maskulin) = contact · neu = new. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Kontakt is the subject.
Akk Ich speichere den Kontakt.
I save the contact.
der Kontakt (maskulin) = contact · speichern = to save. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Kontakt is the direct object.
Dat Ich spreche mit dem Kontakt.
I speak with the contact.
der Kontakt (maskulin) = contact · sprechen = to speak · mit = with (always Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
das Lied — song
Plural: die Lieder. Refers to a song, especially one that is sung (as opposed to "der Song," a more casual loanword for pop music).
Nom Das Lied ist schön.
The song is beautiful.
das Lied (neutrum) = song · schön = beautiful. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Lied is the subject.
Akk Ich singe das Lied.
I sing the song.
das Lied (neutrum) = song · singen = to sing. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Lied is the direct object.
Dat Ich tanze zu dem Lied.
I dance to the song.
das Lied (neutrum) = song · tanzen = to dance · zu = to (+ Dat). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "zu".
die Musikgruppe — music group
Compound: Musik + Gruppe. Plural: die Musikgruppen. A neutral term covering bands of any genre, from rock to classical ensembles.
Nom Die Musikgruppe spielt heute.
The music group plays today.
die Musikgruppe (feminin) = music group · spielen = to play · heute = today. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Musikgruppe is the subject.
Akk Ich höre die Musikgruppe.
I listen to the music group.
die Musikgruppe (feminin) = music group · hören = to hear/listen. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Musikgruppe is the direct object.
Dat Ich tanze mit der Musikgruppe.
I dance with the music group.
die Musikgruppe (feminin) = music group · tanzen = to dance · mit = with (always Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
die Spezialität — specialty
Words ending in -tät are always feminine, borrowed from Latin/French -tas/-té (compare: Universität, Realität). Often used for a restaurant's or region's signature dish.
Nom Die Spezialität schmeckt gut.
The specialty tastes good.
die Spezialität (feminin) = specialty · schmecken = to taste · gut = good. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Spezialität is the subject.
Akk Ich probiere die Spezialität.
I try the specialty.
die Spezialität (feminin) = specialty · probieren = to try. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Spezialität is the direct object.
Dat Der Koch experimentiert mit der Spezialität.
The chef experiments with the specialty.
die Spezialität (feminin) = specialty · der Koch (maskulin) = chef · experimentieren = to experiment · mit = with (always Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
der Small Talk — small talk
A direct English loanword, maskulin, no plural in everyday use. "Small Talk machen" is the standard German phrase for making small talk — a skill considered less natural in German culture than in many English-speaking ones.
Nom Der Small Talk ist im Büro wichtig.
Small talk is important in the office.
der Small Talk (maskulin) = small talk · wichtig = important · das Büro (neutrum) = office. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Small Talk is the subject.
Akk Ich mache den Small Talk.
I make small talk.
der Small Talk (maskulin) = small talk · machen = to do/make. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Small Talk is the direct object.
Dat Ich beginne mit dem Small Talk.
I begin with the small talk.
der Small Talk (maskulin) = small talk · beginnen = to begin · mit = with (always Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
reden — to talk
A regular verb close in meaning to "sprechen," but often implies a more casual, ongoing conversation. "Redest du Deutsch?" sounds odd — "sprechen" is preferred for speaking a language, while "reden" fits chatting.
Nom Der Mitarbeiter redet viel.
The employee talks a lot.
der Mitarbeiter (maskulin) = employee (male) · reden = to talk → redet (er form) · viel = a lot. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Mitarbeiter is the subject.
Akk Wir reden über den Small Talk.
We talk about small talk.
reden über = to talk about (+ Akk) · der Small Talk (maskulin) = small talk. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) after "über" (topic). Small Talk is the object of discussion.
Dat Ich rede mit der Kollegin.
I talk with the colleague.
reden = to talk → rede (ich form) · die Kollegin (feminin) = colleague (female) · mit = with (always Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
das Leben — life
Neuter, from the verb "leben" (to live). Rarely used in the plural. Appears in many fixed phrases: "Das Leben ist schön" (Life is beautiful), "ums Leben kommen" (to lose one's life).
Nom Das Leben ist schön.
Life is beautiful.
das Leben (neutrum) = life · schön = beautiful. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Leben is the subject.
Akk Ich liebe das Leben.
I love life.
das Leben (neutrum) = life · lieben = to love. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Leben is the direct object.
Dat Ich bin zufrieden mit dem Leben.
I am satisfied with life.
das Leben (neutrum) = life · zufrieden = satisfied · mit = with (always Dativ). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit".
aktuell — current(ly)
A common adjective meaning current or up-to-date — a "false friend" trap, since it does NOT mean "actually" (that's "eigentlich" in German).
Nom Der Bericht ist aktuell.
The report is current.
der Bericht (maskulin) = report · aktuell = current(ly). "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Bericht is the subject.
Akk Ich lese den aktuellen Bericht.
I read the current report.
lesen = to read · der Bericht (maskulin) = report · aktuell → aktuellen (attributive ending -en after "den"). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Bericht is the direct object.
Dat Bei dem aktuellen Thema diskutieren wir viel.
We discuss a lot about the current topic.
das Thema (neutrum) = topic · aktuell → aktuellen (attributive ending) · bei = with/at (+ Dat) · diskutieren = to discuss. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "bei".
neutral — neutral
An adjective borrowed directly from Latin, useful for describing an unbiased opinion — especially handy when discussing Politik in small talk without taking sides!
Nom Der Standpunkt ist neutral.
The standpoint is neutral.
der Standpunkt (maskulin) = standpoint · neutral = neutral. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Standpunkt is the subject.
Akk Ich respektiere die neutrale Position.
I respect the neutral position.
respektieren = to respect · die Position (feminin) = position · neutral → neutrale (attributive ending -e after "die"). "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Position is the direct object.
Dat Ich bleibe bei dem neutralen Thema.
I stick to the neutral topic.
bleiben bei = to stick to (+ Dat) · das Thema (neutrum) = topic · neutral → neutralen (attributive ending). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "bei".
die Politik — politics
Feminine, singular in the general sense ("politics" as a subject). A topic many Germans consider too personal or divisive for casual Small Talk.
Nom Die Politik ist kompliziert.
Politics is complicated.
die Politik (feminin) = politics · kompliziert = complicated. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Politik is the subject.
Akk Ich diskutiere die Politik ungern.
I don't like discussing politics.
die Politik (feminin) = politics · diskutieren = to discuss · ungern = reluctantly. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Politik is the direct object.
Dat Wir sprechen über die Politik in dem Land.
We talk about the politics in the country.
sprechen über = to talk about (+ Akk) · die Politik (feminin) = politics · das Land (neutrum) = country · in = in (+ Dat for location). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in".
die Serie — series (TV)
Feminine, plural die Serien. Refers to a TV series (Netflix-Serie, Krimiserie); for a series of events or a numeric sequence, the same word is also used.
Nom Die Serie ist spannend.
The series is exciting.
die Serie (feminin) = series (TV) · spannend = exciting/suspenseful. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Serie is the subject.
Akk Ich sehe die Serie.
I watch the series.
die Serie (feminin) = series (TV) · sehen = to see/watch. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Serie is the direct object.
Dat Ich spreche mit der Freundin über die Serie.
I talk with my (female) friend about the series.
die Freundin (feminin) = friend (female) · sprechen mit = to speak with (+ Dat) · über = about (+ Akk for topic). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".