Appearance
Netzwerk 8: Body & Health
Chapter 8 — fitness, body parts, accidents, and visiting the doctor.
Maskulin Feminin Neutrum Plural
fit — fit
Germans love saying "Ich bin fit!" A borrowed English word, so it is easy to remember. As a predicate adjective (after sein) it never changes; only when it stands before a noun does it take an ending.
Nom Der Sportler ist fit.
The athlete is fit.
fit = fit · der Sportler (maskulin) = athlete · sein = to be. Here "fit" is predicative (after "ist"), so it takes NO ending. "Der Sportler" is the subject in Nominativ.
Akk Ich bewundere den fitten Sportler.
I admire the fit athlete.
fit = fit · bewundern = to admire · der Sportler = athlete. Now "fit" stands before the noun, so it takes an ending: fit → fitten. The ending is -en because it is maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Sportler is the direct object.
Dat Ich trainiere mit dem fitten Sportler.
I train with the fit athlete.
fit = fit · trainieren = to train · mit = with (+ Dativ). Attributive again: fit → fitten. Ending -en because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit". So the ending goes -∅ (Nom predicative) → -en (Akk) → -en (Dat).
sportlich — sporty / athletic
"Sportlich" describes both a person who does a lot of sport and a casual, athletic style of clothing ("sportlich elegant"). A very common compliment.
Nom Meine Schwester ist sehr sportlich.
My sister is very sporty.
sportlich = sporty · die Schwester (feminin) = sister · sehr = very. Predicative (after "ist"), so NO ending. "Meine Schwester" is the subject in Nominativ.
Akk Ich kenne einen sportlichen Mann.
I know a sporty man.
sportlich = sporty · kennen = to know · der Mann = man. Before the noun it takes an ending: sportlich → sportlichen. The -en comes from maskulin Akkusativ after "einen" (ein → einen). Mann is the direct object.
Dat Ich spiele Tennis mit dem sportlichen Freund.
I play tennis with the sporty friend.
sportlich = sporty · spielen = to play · der Freund = friend · mit = with (+ Dativ). Attributive: sportlich → sportlichen. Ending -en because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit". Pattern: -∅ → -en → -en.
die Sportlerin — athlete (female)
The suffix "-in" turns a male job/role into the female form: der Sportler → die Sportlerin. Add "-in" and you get a feminin noun. Plural: die Sportlerinnen.
Nom Die Sportlerin trainiert jeden Tag.
The (female) athlete trains every day.
die Sportlerin (feminin) = female athlete · trainieren = to train · jeden Tag = every day. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Sportlerin is the subject.
Akk Ich sehe die Sportlerin im Fernsehen.
I see the (female) athlete on television.
die Sportlerin (feminin) = female athlete · sehen = to see · im Fernsehen = on TV. "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Sportlerin is the direct object.
Dat Ich spreche mit der Sportlerin.
I speak with the (female) athlete.
die Sportlerin (feminin) = female athlete · sprechen = to speak · mit = with (+ Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
gesund leben — to live healthily
A key theme of this chapter. "Gesund" (healthy) is the adverb here, and "leben" is the verb. The opposite is "ungesund leben". Memory aid: gesund sounds a bit like "sound" — a sound, healthy body.
Nom Meine Oma lebt sehr gesund.
My grandma lives very healthily.
gesund leben = to live healthily · die Oma (feminin) = grandma · sehr = very. "Meine Oma" is the subject in Nominativ. "Gesund" works as an adverb here, so it has no ending.
Akk Ich esse jeden Tag einen Salat und lebe gesund.
I eat a salad every day and live healthily.
gesund leben = to live healthily · essen = to eat · der Salat (maskulin) = salad. The key noun "einen Salat" is in Akkusativ (direct object of essen): der → ein → einen (maskulin Akkusativ).
Dat Mit einer guten Ernährung lebt man gesund.
With a good diet one lives healthily.
gesund leben = to live healthily · die Ernährung (feminin) = diet/nutrition · man = one/you · mit = with (+ Dativ). The key noun "einer guten Ernährung" is in Dativ after "mit": die → eine → einer (feminin Dativ), and the adjective takes -en → guten.
anziehen — to put on (clothes)
A separable verb: the "an-" jumps to the end of the sentence — "Ich ziehe eine Jacke an." Reflexive when you dress yourself: "Ich ziehe mich an." The opposite is "ausziehen" (to take off).
Nom Das Kind zieht sich alleine an.
The child gets dressed on its own.
anziehen = to put on (separable: an…) · das Kind (neutrum) = child · sich = itself · alleine = alone. "Das Kind" is the subject in Nominativ. Notice "an" moves to the end.
Akk Ich ziehe eine warme Jacke an.
I put on a warm jacket.
anziehen = to put on · die Jacke (feminin) = jacket · warm = warm. The key noun "eine warme Jacke" is the direct object in Akkusativ: die → eine (feminin Akkusativ, unchanged), adjective ending -e → warme.
Dat Bei dem Regen ziehe ich einen Mantel an.
In the rain I put on a coat.
anziehen = to put on · der Regen (maskulin) = rain · der Mantel = coat · bei = in/during (+ Dativ). The key noun "dem Regen" is in Dativ after "bei": der → dem (maskulin Dativ).
weitermachen — to continue / carry on
A separable verb built from "weiter" (further) + "machen" (to do): "Mach weiter!" = "Carry on!" A great word of encouragement during exercise or study.
Nom Der Schüler macht weiter.
The pupil carries on.
weitermachen = to continue (separable: weiter…) · der Schüler (maskulin) = pupil. "Der Schüler" is the subject in Nominativ. "Weiter" splits off to the end.
Akk Wir machen den Kurs nächste Woche weiter.
We continue the course next week.
weitermachen = to continue · der Kurs (maskulin) = course · nächste Woche = next week. The key noun "den Kurs" is the direct object in Akkusativ: der → den (maskulin Akkusativ).
Dat Nach der Pause machen wir weiter.
After the break we carry on.
weitermachen = to continue · die Pause (feminin) = break · nach = after (+ Dativ). The key noun "der Pause" is in Dativ after "nach": die → der (feminin Dativ).
schaffen — to manage / to accomplish
"Ich schaffe das!" = "I can do it / I'll manage!" — a phrase you hear everywhere in Germany (famously used by Angela Merkel). It expresses confidence in reaching a goal.
Nom Der Läufer schafft es.
The runner makes it.
schaffen = to manage · der Läufer (maskulin) = runner · es = it. "Der Läufer" is the subject in Nominativ.
Akk Ich schaffe die Prüfung.
I pass the exam.
schaffen = to manage/pass · die Prüfung (feminin) = exam. The key noun "die Prüfung" is the direct object in Akkusativ: die → die (feminin Akkusativ, unchanged).
Dat Mit dem Training schaffe ich den Marathon.
With the training I manage the marathon.
schaffen = to manage · das Training (neutrum) = training · der Marathon = marathon · mit = with (+ Dativ). The key noun "dem Training" is in Dativ after "mit": das → dem (neutrum Dativ).
egal — doesn't matter / all the same
"Das ist mir egal" = "I don't care / it's all the same to me." Note the person who doesn't care is in the Dativ: mir, dir, ihm. A very handy everyday phrase.
Nom Das Wetter ist mir egal.
The weather doesn't matter to me.
egal = doesn't matter · das Wetter (neutrum) = weather · mir = to me (Dativ). "Das Wetter" is the subject in Nominativ; "egal" is predicative, so no ending.
Akk Es ist egal, welchen Weg du nimmst.
It doesn't matter which way you take.
egal = doesn't matter · der Weg (maskulin) = way/path · nehmen = to take. The key noun "welchen Weg" is the direct object of "nimmst" in Akkusativ: der → welchen (maskulin Akkusativ takes -en).
Dat Dem Chef ist die Kleidung egal.
The clothes don't matter to the boss.
egal = doesn't matter · der Chef (maskulin) = boss · die Kleidung = clothing. The person is in Dativ: "dem Chef" (der → dem, maskulin Dativ) — the boss is the one to whom it doesn't matter.
regelmäßig — regularly
From "die Regel" (rule) + "-mäßig" (according to). Doing sport "regelmäßig" is the doctor's classic advice. Opposite: unregelmäßig (irregularly).
Nom Sein Training ist regelmäßig.
His training is regular.
regelmäßig = regular(ly) · das Training (neutrum) = training. "Sein Training" is the subject in Nominativ; "regelmäßig" is predicative, so no ending.
Akk Ich mache regelmäßig einen Spaziergang.
I regularly go for a walk.
regelmäßig = regularly · der Spaziergang (maskulin) = walk · machen = to do/make. Here "regelmäßig" is an adverb (no ending). The key noun "einen Spaziergang" is the direct object in Akkusativ: der → einen (maskulin Akkusativ).
Dat Mit regelmäßigem Sport bleibt man gesund.
With regular sport one stays healthy.
regelmäßig = regular · der Sport (maskulin) = sport · mit = with (+ Dativ). The key noun "Sport" is in Dativ after "mit". With no article, the adjective takes the Dativ maskulin ending: regelmäßig → regelmäßigem.
täglich — daily
From "der Tag" (day) + "-lich". The same pattern gives wöchentlich (weekly), monatlich (monthly), jährlich (yearly). "Zweimal täglich" = twice daily, common on medicine labels.
Nom Sein Sport ist täglich.
His sport is daily.
täglich = daily · der Sport (maskulin) = sport. "Sein Sport" is the subject in Nominativ; "täglich" is predicative, so no ending.
Akk Ich trinke täglich einen Liter Wasser.
I drink a litre of water daily.
täglich = daily · der Liter (maskulin) = litre · das Wasser = water. Here "täglich" is an adverb (no ending). The key noun "einen Liter" is the direct object in Akkusativ: der → einen (maskulin Akkusativ).
Dat Nach dem täglichen Spaziergang bin ich müde.
After the daily walk I am tired.
täglich = daily · der Spaziergang (maskulin) = walk · nach = after (+ Dativ). The key noun "dem … Spaziergang" is in Dativ after "nach": der → dem (maskulin Dativ), and the attributive adjective takes -en → täglichen.
faul — lazy
"Faul" also means "rotten" for fruit (ein fauler Apfel). For people it means lazy — the opposite of "fleißig" (hard-working). Predicative it has no ending; before a noun it does.
Nom Mein Bruder ist faul.
My brother is lazy.
faul = lazy · der Bruder (maskulin) = brother · sein = to be. "Mein Bruder" is the subject in Nominativ; "faul" is predicative, so NO ending.
Akk Ich kenne einen faulen Studenten.
I know a lazy student.
faul = lazy · kennen = to know · der Student = student. Before the noun it takes an ending: faul → faulen. The -en is maskulin Akkusativ after "einen" (ein → einen). Student is the direct object.
Dat Mit einem faulen Kollegen arbeite ich nicht gern.
I don't like working with a lazy colleague.
faul = lazy · der Kollege = colleague · arbeiten = to work · mit = with (+ Dativ). Attributive: faul → faulen. Ending -en because maskulin Dativ (ein → einem) after "mit". Pattern: -∅ → -en → -en.
aktiv — active
An international word — easy to recognise. Opposite: passiv. "Aktiv bleiben" (to stay active) is a common health tip, especially for older people.
Nom Meine Großmutter ist sehr aktiv.
My grandmother is very active.
aktiv = active · die Großmutter (feminin) = grandmother · sehr = very. Predicative (after "ist"), so NO ending. "Meine Großmutter" is the subject in Nominativ.
Akk Ich mag einen aktiven Lebensstil.
I like an active lifestyle.
aktiv = active · mögen = to like · der Lebensstil = lifestyle. Before the noun: aktiv → aktiven. The -en is maskulin Akkusativ after "einen" (ein → einen). Lebensstil is the direct object.
Dat Mit einem aktiven Hund geht man viel spazieren.
With an active dog you go for a lot of walks.
aktiv = active · der Hund = dog · spazieren gehen = to go for a walk · mit = with (+ Dativ). Attributive: aktiv → aktiven. Ending -en because maskulin Dativ (ein → einem) after "mit". Pattern: -∅ → -en → -en.
gefährlich — dangerous
From "die Gefahr" (danger). "Vorsicht, gefährlich!" — a warning you may see on signs. Predicative it has no ending; before a noun it takes one.
Nom Der Sport ist gefährlich.
The sport is dangerous.
gefährlich = dangerous · der Sport (maskulin) = sport. "Der Sport" is the subject in Nominativ; "gefährlich" is predicative, so NO ending.
Akk Wir vermeiden den gefährlichen Weg.
We avoid the dangerous path.
gefährlich = dangerous · vermeiden = to avoid · der Weg = path. Before the noun: gefährlich → gefährlichen. Ending -en because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Weg is the direct object.
Dat Vor dem gefährlichen Hund habe ich Angst.
I am afraid of the dangerous dog.
gefährlich = dangerous · der Hund = dog · Angst haben vor = to be afraid of (+ Dativ). Attributive: gefährlich → gefährlichen. Ending -en because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "vor". Pattern: -∅ → -en → -en.
müde — tired
"Ich bin müde" is one of the first feelings you learn to express. Because it already ends in -e, the attributive form just adds -n → müden.
Nom Ich bin sehr müde.
I am very tired.
müde = tired · sein = to be · sehr = very. Predicative (after "bin"), so no extra ending. "Ich" is the subject in Nominativ.
Akk Ich sehe den müden Mann.
I see the tired man.
müde = tired · sehen = to see · der Mann = man. Before the noun: müde → müden (add -n). The form is maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Mann is the direct object.
Dat Ich helfe dem müden Kind.
I help the tired child.
müde = tired · helfen = to help (+ Dativ) · das Kind = child. Attributive: müde → müden. Ending because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "helfen". Pattern: -∅ → -en → -en.
hungrig — hungry
From "der Hunger" (hunger). Careful: to say "I am hungry" Germans usually say "Ich habe Hunger" (I have hunger), but "hungrig" is used as an adjective: "das hungrige Kind".
Nom Das Baby ist hungrig.
The baby is hungry.
hungrig = hungry · das Baby (neutrum) = baby. "Das Baby" is the subject in Nominativ; "hungrig" is predicative, so NO ending.
Akk Ich sehe einen hungrigen Hund.
I see a hungry dog.
hungrig = hungry · sehen = to see · der Hund = dog. Before the noun: hungrig → hungrigen. Ending -en because maskulin Akkusativ after "einen" (ein → einen). Hund is the direct object.
Dat Dem hungrigen Kind gebe ich einen Apfel.
I give the hungry child an apple.
hungrig = hungry · geben = to give · das Kind = child · der Apfel = apple. Attributive: hungrig → hungrigen. The child is the indirect object in Dativ: das → dem (neutrum Dativ).
richtig — correct / right
"Richtig!" alone means "Correct!" — a teacher's favourite word. Opposite: falsch (wrong). It also works as an intensifier: "richtig gut" = really good.
Nom Deine Antwort ist richtig.
Your answer is correct.
richtig = correct · die Antwort (feminin) = answer. "Deine Antwort" is the subject in Nominativ; "richtig" is predicative, so NO ending.
Akk Ich kenne den richtigen Weg.
I know the correct way.
richtig = correct · kennen = to know · der Weg = way. Before the noun: richtig → richtigen. Ending -en because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Weg is the direct object.
Dat Mit der richtigen Methode lernt man schnell.
With the right method one learns quickly.
richtig = correct/right · die Methode = method · mit = with (+ Dativ) · lernen = to learn. Attributive: richtig → richtigen. Ending -en because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
vergessen — to forget
An irregular verb with a vowel change: ich vergesse, du vergisst, er/sie vergisst. The past participle is also irregular: vergessen (same form!). Very useful at the doctor: "Ich habe das Rezept vergessen."
Nom Der Mann vergisst alles.
The man forgets everything.
vergessen = to forget (er vergisst) · der Mann (maskulin) = man · alles = everything. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Mann is the subject who forgets.
Akk Ich vergesse das Rezept nie.
I never forget the prescription.
vergessen = to forget · das Rezept (neutrum) = prescription · nie = never. "Das" — neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Rezept is the direct object being forgotten.
Dat Sie hilft dem Doktor, weil er alles vergisst.
She helps the doctor because he forgets everything.
vergessen = to forget · helfen = to help (+ Dativ) · der Doktor (maskulin) = doctor · weil = because (sends verb to end). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "helfen".
vermissen — to miss (someone/something)
Use this for missing a person or place, not a train — "Ich vermisse dich" = "I miss you." To miss a bus is "den Bus verpassen". Don't mix them up!
Nom Meine Mutter vermisst mich.
My mother misses me.
vermissen = to miss · die Mutter (feminin) = mother · mich = me (Akkusativ). "Meine Mutter" is the subject in Nominativ.
Akk Ich vermisse meinen Freund.
I miss my friend.
vermissen = to miss · der Freund (maskulin) = friend. The key noun "meinen Freund" is the direct object in Akkusativ: der → mein → meinen (maskulin Akkusativ takes -en).
Dat Nach dem Umzug vermisse ich die alte Stadt.
After the move I miss the old city.
vermissen = to miss · der Umzug (maskulin) = move/relocation · die Stadt = city · nach = after (+ Dativ). The key noun "dem Umzug" is in Dativ after "nach": der → dem (maskulin Dativ).
die Süßigkeit — candy / sweet
From "süß" (sweet) + "-keit" (which always makes a feminin noun). Usually used in the plural: die Süßigkeiten. In this health chapter, the advice is to eat fewer of them!
Nom Die Süßigkeit ist zu süß.
The sweet is too sweet.
die Süßigkeit (feminin) = sweet · zu = too · süß = sweet. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Süßigkeit is the subject.
Akk Das Kind isst die Süßigkeit schnell.
The child eats the sweet quickly.
die Süßigkeit (feminin) = sweet · essen = to eat · schnell = quickly. "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Süßigkeit is the direct object.
Dat Mit der Süßigkeit mache ich das Kind glücklich.
With the sweet I make the child happy.
die Süßigkeit (feminin) = sweet · glücklich = happy · mit = with (+ Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
mindestens — at least
"Mindestens" gives a minimum: "Trink mindestens zwei Liter Wasser!" The opposite is "höchstens" (at most). Related noun: das Minimum.
Nom Der Kurs dauert mindestens eine Stunde.
The course lasts at least an hour.
mindestens = at least · der Kurs (maskulin) = course · dauern = to last. "Der Kurs" is the subject in Nominativ. "Mindestens" is an adverb, so it never changes.
Akk Ich trinke mindestens einen Liter Wasser.
I drink at least a litre of water.
mindestens = at least · der Liter (maskulin) = litre · trinken = to drink. The key noun "einen Liter" is the direct object in Akkusativ: der → einen (maskulin Akkusativ).
Dat Nach mindestens einer Woche bin ich wieder gesund.
After at least a week I am healthy again.
mindestens = at least · die Woche (feminin) = week · nach = after (+ Dativ). The key noun "einer Woche" is in Dativ after "nach": die → eine → einer (feminin Dativ).
das Alter — age
"Wie alt bist du?" asks your age. "Das Alter" is used only in the singular. Don't confuse it with "das Altertum" (antiquity) or the comparative "älter" (older).
Nom Das Alter ist nur eine Zahl.
Age is just a number.
das Alter (neutrum) = age · nur = only · die Zahl = number. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Alter is the subject.
Akk Der Arzt fragt das Alter.
The doctor asks (for) the age.
das Alter (neutrum) = age · der Arzt = doctor · fragen = to ask. "Das" stays "das" in neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Alter is the direct object.
Dat In dem Alter braucht man viel Schlaf.
At that age one needs a lot of sleep.
das Alter (neutrum) = age · brauchen = to need · der Schlaf = sleep · in = in/at (+ Dativ). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in".
die Größe — size / height
From "groß" (big) + "-e". It means both a person's height and a clothing/shoe size ("Welche Größe haben Sie?"). Plural: die Größen.
Nom Meine Größe ist 1,80 Meter.
My height is 1.80 metres.
die Größe (feminin) = height/size · der Meter = metre. "Meine Größe" is the subject in Nominativ (die → meine).
Akk Der Verkäufer fragt die Größe.
The salesperson asks (for) the size.
die Größe (feminin) = size · der Verkäufer = salesperson · fragen = to ask. "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Größe is the direct object.
Dat Ich suche eine Hose in der Größe 40.
I am looking for trousers in size 40.
die Größe (feminin) = size · die Hose = trousers · suchen = to look for · in = in (+ Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in".
das Gewicht — weight
Related to the verb "wiegen" (to weigh). Used mainly in the singular. In German, weight is measured in kilos and grams — never pounds.
Nom Das Gewicht ist wichtig für die Gesundheit.
Weight is important for health.
das Gewicht (neutrum) = weight · wichtig = important · die Gesundheit = health. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Gewicht is the subject.
Akk Der Arzt kontrolliert das Gewicht.
The doctor checks the weight.
das Gewicht (neutrum) = weight · der Arzt = doctor · kontrollieren = to check. "Das" stays "das" in neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Gewicht is the direct object.
Dat Mit dem Gewicht bin ich zufrieden.
I am happy with the weight.
das Gewicht (neutrum) = weight · zufrieden = satisfied · mit = with (+ Dativ). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit".
wiegen — to weigh
"Wie viel wiegst du?" = "How much do you weigh?" The reflexive "sich wiegen" means to weigh oneself (on a scale). Past tense: wog.
Nom Das Baby wiegt drei Kilo.
The baby weighs three kilos.
wiegen = to weigh · das Baby (neutrum) = baby · das Kilo = kilo. "Das Baby" is the subject in Nominativ.
Akk Der Arzt wiegt das Kind.
The doctor weighs the child.
wiegen = to weigh · der Arzt = doctor · das Kind (neutrum) = child. The key noun "das Kind" is the direct object in Akkusativ: das → das (neutrum Akkusativ, unchanged).
Dat Vor dem Sport wiege ich mich.
Before sport I weigh myself.
wiegen = to weigh · der Sport (maskulin) = sport · mich = myself · vor = before (+ Dativ). The key noun "dem Sport" is in Dativ after "vor": der → dem (maskulin Dativ).
schwer — heavy / difficult
"Schwer" has two meanings: physically heavy, and difficult ("eine schwere Prüfung"). Context decides. Predicative it has no ending; before a noun it takes one.
Nom Der Koffer ist schwer.
The suitcase is heavy.
schwer = heavy · der Koffer (maskulin) = suitcase. "Der Koffer" is the subject in Nominativ; "schwer" is predicative, so NO ending.
Akk Ich trage den schweren Koffer.
I carry the heavy suitcase.
schwer = heavy · tragen = to carry · der Koffer = suitcase. Before the noun: schwer → schweren. Ending -en because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Koffer is the direct object.
Dat Mit dem schweren Rucksack laufe ich langsam.
With the heavy backpack I walk slowly.
schwer = heavy · der Rucksack = backpack · laufen = to walk · mit = with (+ Dativ). Attributive: schwer → schweren. Ending -en because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit". Pattern: -∅ → -en → -en.
der Körper — body
"Körper" also gives "die Körperteile" (body parts) — the title of this section. Plural is the same: die Körper. Think of English "corporeal" to remember it.
Nom Der Körper braucht Bewegung.
The body needs movement.
der Körper (maskulin) = body · brauchen = to need · die Bewegung = movement. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Körper is the subject.
Akk Sport trainiert den Körper.
Sport trains the body.
der Körper (maskulin) = body · der Sport = sport · trainieren = to train. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Körper is the direct object being trained.
Dat In dem Körper steckt viel Energie.
There is a lot of energy in the body.
der Körper (maskulin) = body · stecken = to be (inside) · die Energie = energy · in = in (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in".
der Kopf — head
Germans say "Kopf hoch!" (chin up / head up!) to encourage someone. The plural adds an umlaut: Köpfe.
Nom Der Kopf tut mir weh.
My head hurts.
der Kopf (maskulin) = head · wehtun = to hurt · mir = me (dative). "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Kopf is the subject doing the hurting.
Akk Er bewegt den Kopf nach links.
He moves his head to the left.
der Kopf (maskulin) = head · bewegen = to move · nach links = to the left. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Kopf is the direct object being moved.
Dat Sie hat eine Wunde an dem Kopf.
She has a wound on her head.
der Kopf (maskulin) = head · die Wunde = wound · an = on/at (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "an" describing a location.
der Hals — throat / neck
"Halsschmerzen" (a sore throat) is a classic cold symptom. "Hals über Kopf" (head over heels, literally "neck over head") means in a great rush. Plural: Hälse.
Nom Der Hals tut weh.
The throat hurts.
der Hals (maskulin) = throat · wehtun = to hurt. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Hals is the subject.
Akk Der Doktor untersucht den Hals.
The doctor examines the throat.
der Hals (maskulin) = throat · der Doktor = doctor · untersuchen = to examine. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Hals is the direct object.
Dat Ich habe Schmerzen in dem Hals.
I have pain in my throat.
der Hals (maskulin) = throat · der Schmerz = pain · in = in (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in".
der Bauch — stomach / belly
"Bauchschmerzen" (stomach pains) is one of the most common complaints at the doctor. The plural is Bäuche (with umlaut).
Nom Der Bauch ist voll.
The stomach is full.
der Bauch (maskulin) = stomach · voll = full. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Bauch is the subject.
Akk Der Doktor untersucht den Bauch.
The doctor examines the stomach.
der Bauch (maskulin) = stomach · der Doktor = doctor · untersuchen = to examine. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Bauch is the direct object being examined.
Dat Ich habe Schmerzen in dem Bauch.
I have pain in my stomach.
der Bauch (maskulin) = stomach · der Schmerz = pain · in = in (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" describing where the pain is.
der Rücken — back
Back pain (Rückenschmerzen) is Germany's most common health complaint. The plural is the same: die Rücken. A great compound word to know!
Nom Der Rücken tut weh.
The back hurts.
der Rücken (maskulin) = back · wehtun = to hurt/ache. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Rücken is the subject.
Akk Du musst den Rücken gerade halten.
You must keep your back straight.
der Rücken (maskulin) = back · müssen = must · gerade = straight · halten = to hold/keep. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Rücken is the direct object.
Dat Die Salbe hilft bei dem Rücken.
The ointment helps with the back.
der Rücken (maskulin) = back · die Salbe = ointment · helfen = to help · bei = with/at (+ Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "bei".
der Arm — arm
Same spelling as English "arm", easy to remember! Plural: die Arme. Careful: "arm" as an adjective means "poor" — but "der Arm" (the body part) is a noun.
Nom Der Arm ist gebrochen.
The arm is broken.
der Arm (maskulin) = arm · gebrochen = broken. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Arm is the subject.
Akk Ich hebe den Arm.
I raise my arm.
der Arm (maskulin) = arm · heben = to raise/lift. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Arm is the direct object.
Dat Das Baby liegt auf dem Arm der Mutter.
The baby lies in the mother's arm.
der Arm (maskulin) = arm · liegen = to lie · auf = on (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "auf" describing a location.
die Hand — hand
In Germany, you shake hands (die Hand geben) when meeting someone for the first time. The plural adds an umlaut: Hände.
Nom Die Hand ist verletzt.
The hand is injured.
die Hand (feminin) = hand · verletzt = injured. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Hand is the subject.
Akk Ich bewege die Hand langsam.
I move my hand slowly.
die Hand (feminin) = hand · bewegen = to move · langsam = slowly. "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Hand is the direct object.
Dat Er hat ein Pflaster auf der Hand.
He has a plaster on his hand.
die Hand (feminin) = hand · das Pflaster = plaster/bandage · auf = on (+ Dativ for location). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "auf" describing a location.
der Finger — finger
Spelled like English "finger" but pronounced "FING-er" (hard g). Plural is the same: die Finger. "Daumen drücken" (press thumbs) is the German way of saying "fingers crossed".
Nom Der Finger blutet.
The finger is bleeding.
der Finger (maskulin) = finger · bluten = to bleed. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Finger is the subject.
Akk Ich verletze den Finger.
I hurt my finger.
der Finger (maskulin) = finger · verletzen = to injure. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Finger is the direct object.
Dat An dem Finger trage ich einen Ring.
I wear a ring on my finger.
der Finger (maskulin) = finger · der Ring = ring · tragen = to wear · an = on (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "an".
das Bein — leg
Don't confuse "das Bein" (leg) with "das Brot" or English "bone"! Plural: die Beine. "Hals- und Beinbruch!" (break your neck and leg) is the German way to wish good luck.
Nom Das Bein tut weh.
The leg hurts.
das Bein (neutrum) = leg · wehtun = to hurt. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Bein is the subject.
Akk Der Sportler bricht das Bein.
The athlete breaks his leg.
das Bein (neutrum) = leg · der Sportler = athlete · brechen = to break. "Das" stays "das" in neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Bein is the direct object.
Dat Auf dem Bein habe ich eine Wunde.
I have a wound on my leg.
das Bein (neutrum) = leg · die Wunde = wound · auf = on (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "auf".
das Knie — knee
The K is pronounced in German: "k-nee". Plural is the same in spelling (die Knie), but the final -e is pronounced longer. A common spot for sports injuries.
Nom Das Knie ist dick.
The knee is swollen.
das Knie (neutrum) = knee · dick = thick/swollen. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Knie is the subject.
Akk Ich verletze das Knie beim Sport.
I hurt my knee doing sport.
das Knie (neutrum) = knee · verletzen = to injure · beim Sport = while doing sport. "Das" stays "das" in neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Knie is the direct object.
Dat Auf dem Knie trage ich ein Pflaster.
I wear a plaster on my knee.
das Knie (neutrum) = knee · das Pflaster = plaster · tragen = to wear · auf = on (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "auf".
der Fuß — foot
"Fußball" (football/soccer) is Germany's most popular sport — literally "foot-ball." The plural adds an umlaut: Füße. Notice the ß stays after a long vowel.
Nom Der Fuß ist geschwollen.
The foot is swollen.
der Fuß (maskulin) = foot · geschwollen = swollen. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Fuß is the subject.
Akk Ich kann den Fuß nicht bewegen.
I cannot move the foot.
der Fuß (maskulin) = foot · können = can · nicht = not · bewegen = to move. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Fuß is the direct object.
Dat Sie hat einen Verband an dem Fuß.
She has a bandage on her foot.
der Fuß (maskulin) = foot · der Verband = bandage · an = on/at (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "an" describing a location.
das Gesicht — face
Related to "sehen" (to see) — the face is where the eyes are. Plural: die Gesichter. "Ein langes Gesicht machen" = to pull a long face (look sad).
Nom Das Gesicht ist rot.
The face is red.
das Gesicht (neutrum) = face · rot = red. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Gesicht is the subject.
Akk Ich wasche das Gesicht.
I wash my face.
das Gesicht (neutrum) = face · waschen = to wash. "Das" stays "das" in neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Gesicht is the direct object.
Dat In dem Gesicht sehe ich ihre Freude.
I see her joy in her face.
das Gesicht (neutrum) = face · die Freude = joy · sehen = to see · in = in (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in".
der Mund — mouth
"Mund" is maskulin — der Mund. At the dentist you will hear "Machen Sie den Mund auf!" (Open your mouth!). Plural: Münder.
Nom Der Mund ist trocken.
The mouth is dry.
der Mund (maskulin) = mouth · trocken = dry. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Mund is the subject.
Akk Der Zahnarzt öffnet den Mund.
The dentist opens the mouth.
der Mund (maskulin) = mouth · der Zahnarzt = dentist · öffnen = to open. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Mund is the direct object.
Dat In dem Mund habe ich Schmerzen.
I have pain in my mouth.
der Mund (maskulin) = mouth · der Schmerz = pain · in = in (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in".
der Zahn — tooth
Going to the dentist (Zahnarzt) in Germany is covered by public health insurance. Plural: Zähne. "Zähne putzen" = to brush teeth.
Nom Der Zahn tut sehr weh.
The tooth hurts a lot.
der Zahn (maskulin) = tooth · wehtun = to hurt · sehr = very/a lot. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Zahn is the subject.
Akk Wir putzen den Zahn täglich.
We brush the tooth daily.
der Zahn (maskulin) = tooth · putzen = to brush/clean · täglich = daily. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Zahn is the direct object being cleaned.
Dat Der Doktor hilft mir mit dem Zahn.
The doctor helps me with the tooth.
der Zahn (maskulin) = tooth · der Doktor = doctor · helfen = to help (+ Dativ) · mit = with (+ Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
das Auge — eye
The idiom "unter vier Augen" (under four eyes) means "in private" — just between two people. Plural: die Augen.
Nom Das Auge ist rot.
The eye is red.
das Auge (neutrum) = eye · rot = red. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Auge is the subject.
Akk Der Doktor untersucht das Auge.
The doctor examines the eye.
das Auge (neutrum) = eye · der Doktor = doctor · untersuchen = to examine. "Das" stays "das" in neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Auge is the direct object.
Dat Ich habe Schmerzen in dem Auge.
I have pain in my eye.
das Auge (neutrum) = eye · der Schmerz = pain · in = in (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in" describing where the pain is.
das Ohr — ear
"Das Ohr" is neutrum. Plural: die Ohren. "Ich bin ganz Ohr" = "I'm all ears." Careful not to confuse with "das Rohr" (pipe).
Nom Das Ohr tut weh.
The ear hurts.
das Ohr (neutrum) = ear · wehtun = to hurt. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Ohr is the subject.
Akk Der Doktor untersucht das Ohr.
The doctor examines the ear.
das Ohr (neutrum) = ear · der Doktor = doctor · untersuchen = to examine. "Das" stays "das" in neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Ohr is the direct object.
Dat In dem Ohr habe ich Schmerzen.
I have pain in my ear.
das Ohr (neutrum) = ear · der Schmerz = pain · in = in (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in".
die Nase — nose
"Die Nase läuft" (the nose runs) is what you say when you have a cold. "Die Nase voll haben" (to have the nose full) means to be fed up. Plural: die Nasen.
Nom Die Nase läuft.
The nose is running.
die Nase (feminin) = nose · laufen = to run. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Nase is the subject.
Akk Ich putze die Nase.
I blow my nose.
die Nase (feminin) = nose · putzen = to clean/blow. "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Nase is the direct object.
Dat Aus der Nase kommt Blut.
Blood is coming out of the nose.
die Nase (feminin) = nose · das Blut = blood · kommen = to come · aus = out of (+ Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "aus".
riechen — to smell
"Riechen" works both ways: something smells (Die Blume riecht gut) and you smell something (Ich rieche den Kaffee). To smell at/of something: "riechen an" (+ Dativ). Past tense: roch.
Nom Die Blume riecht gut.
The flower smells good.
riechen = to smell · die Blume (feminin) = flower · gut = good. "Die Blume" is the subject in Nominativ.
Akk Ich rieche den Kaffee.
I smell the coffee.
riechen = to smell · der Kaffee (maskulin) = coffee. The key noun "den Kaffee" is the direct object in Akkusativ: der → den (maskulin Akkusativ).
Dat Ich rieche gern an der Blume.
I like to smell the flower.
riechen an = to smell (at) · die Blume (feminin) = flower · gern = gladly. The key noun "der Blume" is in Dativ after "an" (as used with riechen): die → der (feminin Dativ).
das Haar — hair
"Das Haar" is neutrum. Germans often use the plural "die Haare" for the hair on your head. "Sich die Haare waschen" = to wash one's hair.
Nom Das Haar ist lang.
The hair is long.
das Haar (neutrum) = hair · lang = long. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Haar is the subject.
Akk Sie wäscht das Haar.
She washes her hair.
das Haar (neutrum) = hair · waschen = to wash (sie wäscht). "Das" stays "das" in neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Haar is the direct object.
Dat In dem Haar trägt sie eine Blume.
She wears a flower in her hair.
das Haar (neutrum) = hair · die Blume = flower · tragen = to wear · in = in (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in".
der Unfall — accident
If you witness an accident in Germany, call 112 (the European emergency number). The plural adds an umlaut: Unfälle. "Un-" is a common negative prefix, like English "un-".
Nom Der Unfall war gestern.
The accident was yesterday.
der Unfall (maskulin) = accident · war = was (past of sein) · gestern = yesterday. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Unfall is the subject.
Akk Wir hatten den Unfall am Montag.
We had the accident on Monday.
der Unfall (maskulin) = accident · hatten = had (past of haben) · am Montag = on Monday. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Unfall is the direct object.
Dat Nach dem Unfall gehe ich zum Doktor.
After the accident I go to the doctor.
der Unfall (maskulin) = accident · nach = after (+ Dativ) · gehen = to go · zum = zu dem (to the). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "nach".
der Verletzte — injured person
This is an adjectival noun (from "verletzt" = injured), so it declines like an adjective: der Verletzte (male), die Verletzte (female), plural die Verletzten. That means the ending changes with the case, even after "der".
Nom Der Verletzte liegt auf der Straße.
The injured man lies on the street.
der Verletzte (maskulin) = injured person · liegen = to lie · die Straße = street. "Der Verletzte" is the subject in Nominativ; the adjectival-noun ending is -e here (maskulin Nom after "der").
Akk Der Arzt untersucht den Verletzten.
The doctor examines the injured man.
der Verletzte (maskulin) = injured person · der Arzt = doctor · untersuchen = to examine. "Den Verletzten" — maskulin Akkusativ (der → den), and the adjectival noun takes -en. He is the direct object.
Dat Wir helfen dem Verletzten.
We help the injured man.
der Verletzte (maskulin) = injured person · helfen = to help (+ Dativ). "Dem Verletzten" — maskulin Dativ (der → dem), with the adjectival-noun ending -en. He is the Dativ object of "helfen".
verletzt — injured / hurt
The past participle of "verletzen" (to injure), used as an adjective. Predicative it has no ending; before a noun it takes the usual adjective endings. Also means emotionally hurt.
Nom Der Mann ist verletzt.
The man is injured.
verletzt = injured · der Mann (maskulin) = man. "Der Mann" is the subject in Nominativ; "verletzt" is predicative, so NO ending.
Akk Ich sehe den verletzten Sportler.
I see the injured athlete.
verletzt = injured · sehen = to see · der Sportler = athlete. Before the noun: verletzt → verletzten. Ending -en because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Sportler is the direct object.
Dat Wir helfen dem verletzten Kind.
We help the injured child.
verletzt = injured · helfen = to help (+ Dativ) · das Kind = child. Attributive: verletzt → verletzten. Ending -en because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "helfen". Pattern: -∅ → -en → -en.
wehtun — to hurt / to ache
A separable verb: "weh" splits off — "Der Kopf tut weh." The person who feels the pain is in the Dativ: "Mir tut der Kopf weh." Very common when describing symptoms.
Nom Der Rücken tut weh.
The back hurts.
wehtun = to hurt (separable: … weh) · der Rücken (maskulin) = back. "Der Rücken" is the subject in Nominativ — it is the thing doing the hurting. "Weh" splits to the end.
Akk Der Schuh tut weh und drückt den Fuß.
The shoe hurts and squeezes the foot.
wehtun = to hurt · der Schuh = shoe · drücken = to press/squeeze · der Fuß (maskulin) = foot. The key noun "den Fuß" is the direct object of "drücken" in Akkusativ: der → den (maskulin Akkusativ).
Dat Dem Kind tut der Bauch weh.
The child's stomach hurts.
wehtun = to hurt · das Kind (neutrum) = child · der Bauch = stomach. The person who feels the pain goes in the Dativ: "dem Kind" (das → dem, neutrum Dativ). The stomach (Nominativ) is what hurts.
der Schmerz — pain
At the doctor, you'll often hear "Haben Sie Schmerzen?" (Do you have pain?). The plural Schmerzen is used more often than the singular in everyday speech.
Nom Der Schmerz ist stark.
The pain is strong.
der Schmerz (maskulin) = pain · stark = strong. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Schmerz is the subject.
Akk Ich fühle den Schmerz im Rücken.
I feel the pain in my back.
der Schmerz (maskulin) = pain · fühlen = to feel · im = in dem (in the, Dativ). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Schmerz is the direct object being felt.
Dat Die Salbe hilft bei dem Schmerz.
The ointment helps with the pain.
der Schmerz (maskulin) = pain · die Salbe = ointment · helfen = to help · bei = with/at (+ Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "bei".
die Wunde — wound
At the pharmacy (Apotheke), you can describe your wound to get advice. "Die Wunde sauber machen" (to clean the wound) is an important first-aid step.
Nom Die Wunde ist nicht groß.
The wound is not big.
die Wunde (feminin) = wound · nicht = not · groß = big. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Wunde is the subject.
Akk Du musst die Wunde sauber machen.
You must clean the wound.
die Wunde (feminin) = wound · müssen = must · sauber machen = to clean. "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Wunde is the direct object.
Dat Das Pflaster ist auf der Wunde.
The plaster is on the wound.
die Wunde (feminin) = wound · das Pflaster = plaster · auf = on (+ Dativ for location). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "auf" describing a fixed location. (For movement toward, "auf" takes Akkusativ: "Ich lege ein Pflaster auf die Wunde.")
sauber machen — to clean
Literally "to make clean": "sauber" (clean) + "machen" (to make). Also written "saubermachen". First-aid tip: always clean a wound before applying a plaster.
Nom Die Mutter macht sauber.
The mother cleans up.
sauber machen = to clean · die Mutter (feminin) = mother. "Die Mutter" is the subject in Nominativ.
Akk Ich mache die Wunde sauber.
I clean the wound.
sauber machen = to clean · die Wunde (feminin) = wound. The key noun "die Wunde" is the direct object in Akkusativ: die → die (feminin Akkusativ, unchanged).
Dat Nach dem Unfall macht die Krankenschwester alles sauber.
After the accident the nurse cleans everything.
sauber machen = to clean · der Unfall (maskulin) = accident · die Krankenschwester = nurse · nach = after (+ Dativ). The key noun "dem Unfall" is in Dativ after "nach": der → dem (maskulin Dativ).
der Verband — bandage
"Der Verband" comes from "verbinden" (to bind/wrap). A different meaning of the same word is an "association/club". Plural: Verbände. You'll find one in every first-aid kit (Verbandskasten).
Nom Der Verband ist zu eng.
The bandage is too tight.
der Verband (maskulin) = bandage · zu = too · eng = tight. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Verband is the subject.
Akk Der Arzt macht den Verband.
The doctor applies the bandage.
der Verband (maskulin) = bandage · der Arzt = doctor · machen = to make/apply. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Verband is the direct object.
Dat Unter dem Verband ist eine Wunde.
Under the bandage there is a wound.
der Verband (maskulin) = bandage · die Wunde = wound · unter = under (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "unter".
das Pflaster — plaster / band-aid
"Das Pflaster" is what you stick on a small cut. Fun fact: it also means "pavement/road surface" in another context! Plural is the same: die Pflaster.
Nom Das Pflaster klebt gut.
The plaster sticks well.
das Pflaster (neutrum) = plaster · kleben = to stick · gut = well. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Pflaster is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche das Pflaster.
I need the plaster.
das Pflaster (neutrum) = plaster · brauchen = to need. "Das" stays "das" in neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Pflaster is the direct object.
Dat Unter dem Pflaster ist die Wunde.
Under the plaster is the wound.
das Pflaster (neutrum) = plaster · die Wunde = wound · unter = under (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "unter".
die Salbe — ointment / cream
A "Salbe" is a medical cream you rub on skin. You can buy many "Salben" (plural) without a prescription at the Apotheke. Common type: "Wund- und Heilsalbe".
Nom Die Salbe hilft gegen Schmerzen.
The ointment helps against pain.
die Salbe (feminin) = ointment · helfen gegen = to help against · der Schmerz = pain. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Salbe is the subject.
Akk Ich kaufe die Salbe in der Apotheke.
I buy the ointment at the pharmacy.
die Salbe (feminin) = ointment · kaufen = to buy · die Apotheke = pharmacy. "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Salbe is the direct object.
Dat Mit der Salbe wird die Wunde besser.
With the ointment the wound gets better.
die Salbe (feminin) = ointment · die Wunde = wound · besser werden = to get better · mit = with (+ Dativ). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
das Rezept — prescription / recipe
In Germany, many medicines require a Rezept from the doctor. Fun fact: "Rezept" also means "recipe" for cooking! Context tells you which meaning. Plural: Rezepte.
Nom Das Rezept ist vom Doktor.
The prescription is from the doctor.
das Rezept (neutrum) = prescription · vom = von dem (from the) · der Doktor = doctor. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Rezept is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche das Rezept für die Apotheke.
I need the prescription for the pharmacy.
das Rezept (neutrum) = prescription · brauchen = to need · für = for (+ Akkusativ) · die Apotheke = pharmacy. "Das" stays "das" in neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Rezept is the direct object.
Dat Auf dem Rezept steht der Name der Salbe.
On the prescription is the name of the ointment.
das Rezept (neutrum) = prescription · auf = on (+ Dativ for location) · stehen = to stand/be written · die Salbe = ointment. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "auf" describing a location.
bekommen — to receive / to get
A "false friend": "bekommen" does NOT mean "to become" — it means "to get/receive"! (To become is "werden".) A very common mistake for English speakers. Past participle: bekommen (no ge-).
Nom Der Patient bekommt Medizin.
The patient gets medicine.
bekommen = to receive · der Patient (maskulin) = patient · die Medizin = medicine. "Der Patient" is the subject in Nominativ.
Akk Ich bekomme ein Rezept vom Arzt.
I get a prescription from the doctor.
bekommen = to receive · das Rezept (neutrum) = prescription · vom = von dem (from the). The key noun "ein Rezept" is the direct object in Akkusativ: das → ein (neutrum Akkusativ, unchanged form).
Dat Von dem Arzt bekomme ich eine Salbe.
From the doctor I get an ointment.
bekommen = to receive · der Arzt (maskulin) = doctor · die Salbe = ointment · von = from (+ Dativ). The key noun "dem Arzt" is in Dativ after "von": der → dem (maskulin Dativ).
die Apotheke — pharmacy
German pharmacies (marked with a red "A") are different from Drogerien (drugstores like dm). Only Apotheken can sell prescription medicine. There is always an "Notapotheke" (emergency pharmacy) open at night.
Nom Die Apotheke ist um die Ecke.
The pharmacy is around the corner.
die Apotheke (feminin) = pharmacy · um die Ecke = around the corner. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Apotheke is the subject.
Akk Ich suche die Apotheke.
I am looking for the pharmacy.
die Apotheke (feminin) = pharmacy · suchen = to look for / to search. "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Apotheke is the direct object.
Dat Ich kaufe Salbe in der Apotheke.
I buy ointment at the pharmacy.
die Apotheke (feminin) = pharmacy · kaufen = to buy · die Salbe = ointment · in = in (+ Dativ for location). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" describing a location.
bewegen — to move / to exercise
"Sich bewegen" (reflexive) means to move your body / to get exercise — a key health message. "Beweg dich mehr!" = "Move more!" Related noun: die Bewegung (movement).
Nom Der Patient bewegt sich langsam.
The patient moves slowly.
bewegen = to move · der Patient (maskulin) = patient · sich = himself · langsam = slowly. "Der Patient" is the subject in Nominativ.
Akk Ich bewege den Arm.
I move my arm.
bewegen = to move · der Arm (maskulin) = arm. The key noun "den Arm" is the direct object in Akkusativ: der → den (maskulin Akkusativ).
Dat Nach dem Unfall bewege ich mich wenig.
After the accident I move around little.
bewegen = to move · der Unfall (maskulin) = accident · wenig = little · nach = after (+ Dativ). The key noun "dem Unfall" is in Dativ after "nach": der → dem (maskulin Dativ).
Gute Besserung! — Get well soon!
The standard thing to say to someone who is ill. Literally "good improvement" (die Besserung = improvement). Say it when leaving a sick friend or ending a message to someone unwell.
Nom „Gute Besserung!" ist ein netter Wunsch.
"Get well soon!" is a kind wish.
Gute Besserung! = Get well soon! · der Wunsch (maskulin) = wish · nett = kind. After "sein", the predicate noun "ein netter Wunsch" is in Nominativ: der → ein (maskulin Nom), adjective ending -er → netter.
Akk Ich wünsche dem Kranken gute Besserung.
I wish the sick person a good recovery.
Gute Besserung! = Get well soon! · wünschen = to wish · der Kranke = sick person. "Gute Besserung" is the direct object (what you wish) in Akkusativ: die Besserung → keine Änderung (feminin Akkusativ = same form), adjective ending -e → gute.
Dat Ich sage dem Patienten „Gute Besserung!".
I say "Get well soon!" to the patient.
Gute Besserung! = Get well soon! · sagen = to say · der Patient (maskulin) = patient. The person you say it to is the indirect object in Dativ: "dem Patienten" (der → dem, and Patient adds -en as an n-noun).
der Doktor — doctor
"Doktor" is used for a medical doctor and as an academic title (Dr.). In everyday speech "der Arzt" is more common for a physician. Plural: die Doktoren.
Nom Der Doktor kommt bald.
The doctor is coming soon.
der Doktor (maskulin) = doctor · kommen = to come · bald = soon. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Doktor is the subject.
Akk Ich rufe den Doktor.
I call the doctor.
der Doktor (maskulin) = doctor · rufen = to call. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Doktor is the direct object.
Dat Ich gehe zu dem Doktor.
I go to the doctor.
der Doktor (maskulin) = doctor · gehen = to go · zu = to (+ Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "zu" (often shortened to "zum Doktor").
die Krankheit — illness / disease
The suffix "-heit" always makes a noun feminin! Krank (sick) + -heit = die Krankheit. This pattern works for many adjectives: gesund → die Gesundheit (health), schön → die Schönheit (beauty).
Nom Die Krankheit ist nicht gefährlich.
The illness is not dangerous.
die Krankheit (feminin) = illness · nicht = not · gefährlich = dangerous. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Krankheit is the subject.
Akk Der Doktor kennt die Krankheit.
The doctor knows the illness.
die Krankheit (feminin) = illness · der Doktor = doctor · kennen = to know (a thing/person). "Die" stays "die" in feminin Akkusativ (die → die). Krankheit is the direct object.
Dat Er bleibt wegen der Krankheit zu Hause.
He stays home because of the illness.
die Krankheit (feminin) = illness · bleiben = to stay · wegen = because of (+ Genitiv, but often Dativ in speech) · zu Hause = at home. "Der" because feminin Dativ/Genitiv (die → der) after "wegen".
der Schnupfen — (head) cold / sniffles
"Der Schnupfen" is specifically a runny/blocked nose — a common cold. From "schnupfen" (to sniff). Plural is the same: die Schnupfen (rarely used).
Nom Der Schnupfen ist lästig.
The cold is annoying.
der Schnupfen (maskulin) = cold/sniffles · lästig = annoying. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Schnupfen is the subject.
Akk Ich habe einen Schnupfen.
I have a cold.
der Schnupfen (maskulin) = cold · haben = to have. "Einen" because maskulin Akkusativ (ein → einen). Schnupfen is the direct object.
Dat Bei dem Schnupfen trinke ich Tee.
With a cold I drink tea.
der Schnupfen (maskulin) = cold · der Tee = tea · bei = with/in the case of (+ Dativ). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "bei".
das Fieber — fever
In Germany, a temperature above 38.5°C is considered Fieber. Below that is "erhöhte Temperatur" (elevated temperature). Fieber has no plural — it is always singular.
Nom Das Fieber ist hoch.
The fever is high.
das Fieber (neutrum) = fever · hoch = high. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Fieber is the subject.
Akk Sie hat das Fieber seit gestern.
She has had the fever since yesterday.
das Fieber (neutrum) = fever · haben = to have · seit = since (+ Dativ) · gestern = yesterday. "Das" stays "das" in neutrum Akkusativ (das → das). Fieber is the direct object.
Dat Bei dem Fieber musst du im Bett bleiben.
With this fever you must stay in bed.
das Fieber (neutrum) = fever · bei = with/given (+ Dativ) · müssen = must · im Bett = in bed · bleiben = to stay. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "bei".
husten — to cough
The noun is "der Husten" (a cough); the verb is "husten" (to cough). "Ich muss husten" = "I have to cough." A typical symptom you report at the doctor.
Nom Das Kind hustet stark.
The child coughs a lot.
husten = to cough · das Kind (neutrum) = child · stark = strongly. "Das Kind" is the subject in Nominativ.
Akk Ich huste den ganzen Tag.
I cough all day long.
husten = to cough · der Tag (maskulin) = day · ganz = whole. The time phrase "den ganzen Tag" uses the Akkusativ (Zeitakkusativ, accusative of duration): der → den (maskulin Akkusativ), adjective -en → ganzen.
Dat Bei der Erkältung huste ich viel.
With the cold I cough a lot.
husten = to cough · die Erkältung (feminin) = cold · viel = a lot · bei = with (+ Dativ). The key noun "der Erkältung" is in Dativ after "bei": die → der (feminin Dativ).
erkältet sein — to have a cold
Literally "to be chilled" — from "kalt" (cold). "Ich bin erkältet" = "I have a cold." Related noun: die Erkältung (a cold). Notice: you SAY the state with "sein", not "haben".
Nom Mein Kollege ist erkältet.
My colleague has a cold.
erkältet sein = to have a cold · der Kollege (maskulin) = colleague. "Mein Kollege" is the subject in Nominativ; "erkältet" is predicative (after "ist"), so no ending.
Akk Ich habe einen Schnupfen und bin erkältet.
I have a runny nose and a cold.
erkältet sein = to have a cold · der Schnupfen (maskulin) = runny nose · haben = to have. The key noun "einen Schnupfen" is the direct object of "haben" in Akkusativ: der → einen (maskulin Akkusativ).
Dat Bei dem kalten Wetter bin ich oft erkältet.
In the cold weather I often have a cold.
erkältet sein = to have a cold · das Wetter (neutrum) = weather · kalt = cold · oft = often · bei = in/during (+ Dativ). The key noun "dem kalten Wetter" is in Dativ after "bei": das → dem (neutrum Dativ), adjective -en → kalten.
sollen, er soll — should / to be supposed to
A modal verb: ich soll, du sollst, er/sie soll, wir sollen. Used for instructions or obligations from someone else, e.g. a doctor's orders: "Ich soll den Verband wechseln" (I'm supposed to change the bandage). The main verb goes to the end of the sentence.
Nom Der Patient soll ruhen.
The patient is supposed to rest.
der Patient (maskulin) = patient · sollen = should → soll (er form) · ruhen = to rest (goes to the end). "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Patient is the subject.
Akk Ich soll den Verband wechseln.
I'm supposed to change the bandage.
der Verband (maskulin) = bandage · wechseln = to change (goes to the end). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Verband is the direct object.
Dat Ich soll mit dem Arzt sprechen.
I'm supposed to speak with the doctor.
der Arzt (maskulin) = doctor · mit = with (always Dativ) · sprechen = to speak (goes to the end). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit."