Appearance
Netzwerk 9: Housing
Chapter 9 — housing types, rooms, furniture, appliances, and describing a flat.
Maskulin Feminin Neutrum Plural
die Wohnung, -en — apartment / flat
The most common word for a rented home in Germany. Most people in cities live in a "Wohnung", not a house. Plural: die Wohnungen.
Nom Die Wohnung ist sehr hell.
The apartment is very bright.
die Wohnung (feminin) = apartment · sehr = very · hell = bright. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Wohnung is the subject describing itself.
Akk Wir suchen die Wohnung im Internet.
We are looking for the apartment on the internet.
die Wohnung (feminin) = apartment · suchen = to look for · im Internet = on the internet. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ is identical to Nominativ. Wohnung is the direct object.
Dat Ich wohne in der Wohnung im dritten Stock.
I live in the apartment on the third floor.
die Wohnung (feminin) = apartment · wohnen = to live · in = in (+ Dativ for location). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" describing where I live.
das Hochhaus, Hochhäuser — high-rise / skyscraper
Literally "high house". The plural takes an umlaut: Hochhäuser. German cities have far fewer skyscrapers than American ones — Frankfurt is the exception.
Nom Das Hochhaus hat zwanzig Stockwerke.
The high-rise has twenty floors.
das Hochhaus (neutrum) = high-rise · haben = to have · das Stockwerk = floor. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Hochhaus is the subject.
Akk Ich sehe das Hochhaus aus dem Fenster.
I see the high-rise from the window.
das Hochhaus (neutrum) = high-rise · sehen = to see · das Fenster = window. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ is identical to Nominativ. Hochhaus is the direct object.
Dat Sie wohnt in dem Hochhaus am Park.
She lives in the high-rise by the park.
das Hochhaus (neutrum) = high-rise · wohnen = to live · in = in (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in". In speech Germans usually say "im Hochhaus".
die WG, -s — shared flat (Wohngemeinschaft)
Short for "Wohngemeinschaft". Extremely common among students and young people. Say it as two letters: "Weh-Geh". A roommate is a "Mitbewohner/-in".
Nom Die WG hat drei Zimmer.
The shared flat has three rooms.
die WG (feminin, from Wohngemeinschaft) = shared flat · haben = to have · das Zimmer = room. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. WG is the subject.
Akk Wir gründen die WG zusammen.
We are starting the shared flat together.
die WG (feminin) = shared flat · gründen = to found/start · zusammen = together. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ equals Nominativ. WG is the direct object.
Dat In der WG wohnen vier Studenten.
Four students live in the shared flat.
die WG (feminin) = shared flat · wohnen = to live · der Student = student. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" describing location.
das Apartment, -s — apartment (small / studio)
A borrowed English word, so it takes an -s plural. It usually means a small, self-contained flat. Note "Wohnung" is the everyday German word; "Apartment" sounds a bit more modern or commercial.
Nom Das Apartment ist klein, aber gemütlich.
The apartment is small but cozy.
das Apartment (neutrum) = apartment · klein = small · aber = but · gemütlich = cozy. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Apartment is the subject.
Akk Er mietet das Apartment für ein Jahr.
He is renting the apartment for a year.
das Apartment (neutrum) = apartment · mieten = to rent · das Jahr = year. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Apartment is the direct object.
Dat In dem Apartment gibt es eine kleine Küche.
In the apartment there is a small kitchen.
das Apartment (neutrum) = apartment · es gibt = there is · die Küche = kitchen. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in". Usually shortened to "im Apartment".
das Reihenhaus, Reihenhäuser — terraced house
A "Reihe" is a row, so a "Reihenhaus" is a house in a row that shares walls with its neighbours. Very popular with German families in the suburbs. Plural adds an umlaut: Reihenhäuser.
Nom Das Reihenhaus hat einen kleinen Garten.
The terraced house has a small garden.
das Reihenhaus (neutrum) = terraced house · haben = to have · der Garten = garden. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Reihenhaus is the subject. ("einen kleinen Garten" is maskulin Akkusativ, the object.)
Akk Die Familie kauft das Reihenhaus.
The family is buying the terraced house.
das Reihenhaus (neutrum) = terraced house · die Familie = family · kaufen = to buy. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Reihenhaus is the direct object.
Dat Wir wohnen in dem Reihenhaus am Stadtrand.
We live in the terraced house on the edge of town.
das Reihenhaus (neutrum) = terraced house · wohnen = to live · der Stadtrand = edge of town. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in". Usually "im Reihenhaus".
der Raum, Räume — room / space
"Raum" means room in the sense of a space or area (also "space" in general, like "Weltraum" = outer space). "Zimmer" is more specific to a room in a home. Plural: Räume (umlaut).
Nom Der Raum ist sehr groß.
The room is very big.
der Raum (maskulin) = room/space · sehr = very · groß = big. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Raum is the subject.
Akk Wir putzen den Raum vor der Party.
We clean the room before the party.
der Raum (maskulin) = room · putzen = to clean · vor = before. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Raum is the direct object being cleaned.
Dat In dem Raum steht ein großer Tisch.
In the room stands a big table.
der Raum (maskulin) = room · stehen = to stand · der Tisch = table. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" describing location. Often shortened to "im Raum".
das Bad, Bäder — bathroom
Short for "das Badezimmer". "Baden" means to bathe. "Ich gehe ins Bad" = I'm going to the bathroom. Plural: Bäder (umlaut).
Nom Das Bad ist neu renoviert.
The bathroom is newly renovated.
das Bad (neutrum) = bathroom · neu = new · renoviert = renovated. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Bad is the subject.
Akk Ich putze das Bad jeden Samstag.
I clean the bathroom every Saturday.
das Bad (neutrum) = bathroom · putzen = to clean · jeden Samstag = every Saturday. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Bad is the direct object.
Dat Im Bad gibt es kein Fenster.
In the bathroom there is no window.
das Bad (neutrum) = bathroom · es gibt = there is · das Fenster = window. "Im" = in + dem (das → dem in Dativ) after "in" describing location. The contraction "in dem → im" is standard.
die Dusche, -n — shower
The verb is "duschen" (to shower). "Ich dusche jeden Morgen" = I shower every morning. Plural: die Duschen.
Nom Die Dusche ist kaputt.
The shower is broken.
die Dusche (feminin) = shower · kaputt = broken. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Dusche is the subject.
Akk Der Handwerker repariert die Dusche.
The handyman repairs the shower.
die Dusche (feminin) = shower · der Handwerker = handyman · reparieren = to repair. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Dusche is the direct object.
Dat Das Wasser in der Dusche ist kalt.
The water in the shower is cold.
die Dusche (feminin) = shower · das Wasser = water · kalt = cold. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" describing location.
der Flur, -e — hallway / corridor
The entrance hall or corridor inside an apartment. Don't confuse it with English "floor" — that's "der Boden" (surface) or "der Stock" (storey). Plural: die Flure.
Nom Der Flur ist lang und schmal.
The hallway is long and narrow.
der Flur (maskulin) = hallway · lang = long · schmal = narrow. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Flur is the subject.
Akk Wir streichen den Flur weiß.
We are painting the hallway white.
der Flur (maskulin) = hallway · streichen = to paint · weiß = white. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Flur is the direct object being painted.
Dat Die Schuhe stehen in dem Flur.
The shoes are in the hallway.
der Flur (maskulin) = hallway · der Schuh = shoe · stehen = to stand. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in". Often "im Flur".
die Küche, -n — kitchen
In Germany, rented flats often come WITHOUT a kitchen — tenants sometimes buy and install their own! "Die Küche" also means "cuisine" (italienische Küche). Plural: die Küchen.
Nom Die Küche ist modern und praktisch.
The kitchen is modern and practical.
die Küche (feminin) = kitchen · modern = modern · praktisch = practical. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Küche is the subject.
Akk Ich mag die Küche in dieser Wohnung.
I like the kitchen in this apartment.
die Küche (feminin) = kitchen · mögen = to like · diese Wohnung = this apartment. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Küche is the direct object.
Dat In der Küche kocht meine Mutter.
My mother is cooking in the kitchen.
die Küche (feminin) = kitchen · kochen = to cook · die Mutter = mother. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" describing location.
das Schlafzimmer, - — bedroom
Literally "sleep room" (schlafen = to sleep + Zimmer = room). Words ending in -zimmer are all neutrum. The plural is identical: die Schlafzimmer.
Nom Das Schlafzimmer ist ruhig.
The bedroom is quiet.
das Schlafzimmer (neutrum) = bedroom · ruhig = quiet. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Schlafzimmer is the subject.
Akk Wir richten das Schlafzimmer neu ein.
We are furnishing the bedroom anew.
das Schlafzimmer (neutrum) = bedroom · einrichten = to furnish (separable) · neu = new(ly). "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Schlafzimmer is the direct object.
Dat Im Schlafzimmer steht ein großes Bett.
In the bedroom stands a big bed.
das Schlafzimmer (neutrum) = bedroom · stehen = to stand · das Bett = bed. "Im" = in + dem (das → dem in Dativ) after "in" describing location.
das Wohnzimmer, - — living room
From "wohnen" (to live) + Zimmer. The main social room of a German home. Plural is identical: die Wohnzimmer.
Nom Das Wohnzimmer ist gemütlich.
The living room is cozy.
das Wohnzimmer (neutrum) = living room · gemütlich = cozy. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Wohnzimmer is the subject.
Akk Ich putze das Wohnzimmer am Wochenende.
I clean the living room on the weekend.
das Wohnzimmer (neutrum) = living room · putzen = to clean · das Wochenende = weekend. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Wohnzimmer is the direct object.
Dat Wir sitzen zusammen im Wohnzimmer.
We sit together in the living room.
das Wohnzimmer (neutrum) = living room · sitzen = to sit · zusammen = together. "Im" = in + dem (das → dem in Dativ) after "in" describing location.
das Kinderzimmer, - — children's room
"Kinder" (children) + Zimmer. The room for the kids to sleep and play. Plural is identical: die Kinderzimmer.
Nom Das Kinderzimmer ist bunt.
The children's room is colourful.
das Kinderzimmer (neutrum) = children's room · bunt = colourful. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Kinderzimmer is the subject.
Akk Die Eltern streichen das Kinderzimmer gelb.
The parents paint the children's room yellow.
das Kinderzimmer (neutrum) = children's room · die Eltern = parents · streichen = to paint · gelb = yellow. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Kinderzimmer is the direct object.
Dat Die Kinder spielen im Kinderzimmer.
The children are playing in the children's room.
das Kinderzimmer (neutrum) = children's room · spielen = to play. "Im" = in + dem (das → dem in Dativ) after "in" describing location.
der Balkon, -e — balcony
A prized feature in German flats — perfect for a summer coffee. Pronounced "bal-KONG" (French origin). Plural: die Balkone (or colloquially Balkons).
Nom Der Balkon ist nach Süden.
The balcony faces south.
der Balkon (maskulin) = balcony · nach Süden = towards the south. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Balkon is the subject.
Akk Wir lieben den Balkon im Sommer.
We love the balcony in summer.
der Balkon (maskulin) = balcony · lieben = to love · der Sommer = summer. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Balkon is the direct object.
Dat Auf dem Balkon stehen viele Blumen.
On the balcony there are many flowers.
der Balkon (maskulin) = balcony · auf = on (+ Dativ for location) · die Blume = flower. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "auf" describing location.
die Terrasse, -n — terrace / patio
A ground-level outdoor sitting area, usually attached to a house and garden (unlike a "Balkon", which is up in the air). Plural: die Terrassen.
Nom Die Terrasse ist sonnig.
The terrace is sunny.
die Terrasse (feminin) = terrace · sonnig = sunny. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Terrasse is the subject.
Akk Im Frühling putzen wir die Terrasse.
In spring we clean the terrace.
die Terrasse (feminin) = terrace · der Frühling = spring · putzen = to clean. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Terrasse is the direct object.
Dat Wir essen auf der Terrasse zu Abend.
We eat dinner on the terrace.
die Terrasse (feminin) = terrace · auf = on (+ Dativ for location) · zu Abend essen = to have dinner. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "auf".
der Garten, Gärten — garden
Germans love their gardens — even the word "Kindergarten" comes from here! Many city dwellers rent a small allotment garden called a "Schrebergarten". Plural: Gärten (umlaut).
Nom Der Garten ist groß und grün.
The garden is big and green.
der Garten (maskulin) = garden · groß = big · grün = green. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Garten is the subject.
Akk Mein Opa pflegt den Garten jeden Tag.
My grandpa tends the garden every day.
der Garten (maskulin) = garden · der Opa = grandpa · pflegen = to tend/care for. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Garten is the direct object.
Dat Die Kinder spielen in dem Garten.
The children are playing in the garden.
der Garten (maskulin) = garden · spielen = to play. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" describing location. Often "im Garten".
die Treppe, -n — stairs / staircase
Note it's singular in German even though English says "stairs" (plural). "Die Treppe hoch" = up the stairs. Plural die Treppen means several separate staircases.
Nom Die Treppe ist steil.
The staircase is steep.
die Treppe (feminin) = stairs · steil = steep. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Treppe is the subject.
Akk Ich nehme die Treppe, nicht den Aufzug.
I take the stairs, not the elevator.
die Treppe (feminin) = stairs · nehmen = to take · der Aufzug = elevator. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Treppe is the direct object.
Dat Auf der Treppe liegt eine Katze.
A cat is lying on the stairs.
die Treppe (feminin) = stairs · auf = on (+ Dativ for location) · liegen = to lie · die Katze = cat. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "auf".
die Tür, -en — door
Watch out: the front door of a building is "die Haustür". "Tür auf!" means "open the door!". Plural: die Türen.
Nom Die Tür ist offen.
The door is open.
die Tür (feminin) = door · offen = open. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Tür is the subject.
Akk Bitte schließ die Tür!
Please close the door!
die Tür (feminin) = door · schließen = to close · bitte = please. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Tür is the direct object.
Dat Der Schlüssel steckt in der Tür.
The key is in the door.
die Tür (feminin) = door · der Schlüssel = key · stecken = to be stuck/inserted. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" describing location.
die Decke, -n — ceiling / blanket
A useful double word: "die Decke" means both the ceiling above you AND a blanket. Context decides. "Tischdecke" = tablecloth. Plural: die Decken.
Nom Die Decke ist sehr hoch.
The ceiling is very high.
die Decke (feminin) = ceiling · sehr = very · hoch = high. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Decke is the subject.
Akk Im Winter brauche ich die Decke.
In winter I need the blanket.
die Decke (feminin) = blanket · der Winter = winter · brauchen = to need. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Decke is the direct object.
Dat An der Decke hängt eine Lampe.
A lamp hangs from the ceiling.
die Decke (feminin) = ceiling · an = on/at (+ Dativ for location) · hängen = to hang · die Lampe = lamp. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "an".
das Erdgeschoss, -e — ground floor
"Erde" (earth) + "Geschoss" (storey) = the floor at ground level (abbreviated EG). IMPORTANT: what Americans call the "first floor" is the Erdgeschoss; the German "erster Stock" is one floor up! Plural: die Erdgeschosse.
Nom Das Erdgeschoss hat einen eigenen Eingang.
The ground floor has its own entrance.
das Erdgeschoss (neutrum) = ground floor · eigen = own · der Eingang = entrance. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Erdgeschoss is the subject.
Akk Wir mieten das Erdgeschoss.
We are renting the ground floor.
das Erdgeschoss (neutrum) = ground floor · mieten = to rent. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Erdgeschoss is the direct object.
Dat Im Erdgeschoss ist eine Bäckerei.
On the ground floor there is a bakery.
das Erdgeschoss (neutrum) = ground floor · die Bäckerei = bakery. "Im" = in + dem (das → dem in Dativ) after "in" describing location.
der Stock, Stockwerke — floor / storey
"Im ersten Stock" = on the first floor (= one above ground). The plural for counting storeys is "Stockwerke". "Erster Stock" in Germany equals what Americans call the second floor.
Nom Der erste Stock ist frei.
The first floor is available.
der Stock (maskulin) = floor/storey · erste = first · frei = free/available. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Stock is the subject.
Akk Ich nehme den vierten Stock.
I'll take the fourth floor.
der Stock (maskulin) = floor · nehmen = to take · vierte = fourth. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Stock is the direct object.
Dat Sie wohnt in dem zweiten Stock.
She lives on the second floor.
der Stock (maskulin) = floor · wohnen = to live · zweite = second. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in". Usually "im zweiten Stock".
die Lage — location (singular only)
Used constantly in housing ads: "ruhige Lage" (quiet location), "zentrale Lage" (central location). Also means "situation" more generally ("die Lage ist schwierig"). Used mainly in the singular.
Nom Die Lage der Wohnung ist perfekt.
The location of the apartment is perfect.
die Lage (feminin) = location · die Wohnung = apartment · perfekt = perfect. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Lage is the subject.
Akk Ich finde die Lage sehr gut.
I find the location very good.
die Lage (feminin) = location · finden = to find/think · gut = good. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Lage is the direct object.
Dat Bei der Lage ist der Preis fair.
Given the location, the price is fair.
die Lage (feminin) = location · bei = with/given (+ Dativ always) · der Preis = price · fair = fair. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after the Dativ preposition "bei".
die Nähe — proximity / nearby area (singular only)
The key phrase is "in der Nähe" = nearby / in the vicinity. "in der Nähe von der Uni" = near the university. Related to the adjective "nah" (near). Used in the singular.
Nom Die Nähe zum Bahnhof ist praktisch.
The proximity to the train station is practical.
die Nähe (feminin) = proximity · der Bahnhof = train station · praktisch = practical. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Nähe is the subject.
Akk Ich mag die Nähe zum Park.
I like the proximity to the park.
die Nähe (feminin) = proximity · mögen = to like · der Park = park. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Nähe is the direct object.
Dat In der Nähe gibt es einen Supermarkt.
Nearby there is a supermarket.
die Nähe (feminin) = proximity · es gibt = there is · der Supermarkt = supermarket. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" in the fixed phrase "in der Nähe".
das Zentrum, Zentren — centre
"Das Stadtzentrum" is the city centre. Note the irregular Latin plural: Zentrum → Zentren (like Museum → Museen). "im Zentrum" = downtown.
Nom Das Zentrum ist zehn Minuten entfernt.
The centre is ten minutes away.
das Zentrum (neutrum) = centre · die Minute = minute · entfernt = away/distant. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Zentrum is the subject.
Akk Wir erreichen das Zentrum zu Fuß.
We reach the centre on foot.
das Zentrum (neutrum) = centre · erreichen = to reach · zu Fuß = on foot. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Zentrum is the direct object.
Dat Im Zentrum sind viele Geschäfte.
In the centre there are many shops.
das Zentrum (neutrum) = centre · das Geschäft = shop. "Im" = in + dem (das → dem in Dativ) after "in" describing location.
zentral — central
An adjective from "das Zentrum". "Zentral gelegen" = centrally located, a phrase in nearly every good housing ad. Predicative form has no ending; attributive forms add endings.
Nom Die Wohnung ist zentral.
The apartment is central.
zentral = central · die Wohnung = apartment. Used PREDICATIVELY after "ist", so the adjective takes NO ending (just "zentral"). "Die Wohnung" is feminin Nominativ, the subject.
Akk Wir suchen eine zentrale Wohnung.
We are looking for a central apartment.
zentral → zentrale · suchen = to look for. Here it is ATTRIBUTIVE (before the noun): after "eine" in feminin Akkusativ the ending is -e (zentrale). "eine Wohnung" is the direct object.
Dat Wir wohnen in einer zentralen Straße.
We live on a central street.
zentral → zentralen · die Straße = street. ATTRIBUTIVE in Dativ: after "einer" (feminin Dativ) the adjective ending is -en. So the ending changes -∅ (predicative) → -e (Akk) → -en (Dat).
direkt — direct / directly / right
Works as both adjective and adverb. In housing ads: "direkt am Park" = right by the park, "direkt im Zentrum" = right in the centre. As an adverb (right/immediately) it never changes.
Nom Direkt vor dem Haus ist der Bus.
The bus is right in front of the house.
direkt = right/directly (adverb here, no ending) · vor = in front of · der Bus = bus. "Der Bus" is maskulin Nominativ, the subject. (das Haus is neutrum Dativ after "vor".)
Akk Ich nehme den direkten Weg.
I take the direct route.
direkt → direkten · nehmen = to take · der Weg = way/route. ATTRIBUTIVE: after "den" (maskulin Akkusativ) the adjective ending is -en. "den Weg" is the direct object.
Dat Sie wohnt direkt an der Uni.
She lives right by the university.
direkt = right (adverb, no ending) · an = at (+ Dativ for location) · die Uni = university. "der Uni" is feminin Dativ (die → der) after "an". "direkt" simply intensifies it.
weit — far / wide
"Wie weit ist es?" = How far is it? "Zu weit" = too far. It can also mean "wide/loose" (weite Hose = baggy trousers). Predicative form has no ending.
Nom Der Weg zur Arbeit ist weit.
The way to work is far.
weit = far · der Weg = way · die Arbeit = work. PREDICATIVE after "ist", so NO ending. "Der Weg" is maskulin Nominativ, the subject.
Akk Ich mag den weiten Blick über die Stadt.
I like the wide view over the city.
weit → weiten · der Blick = view · über = over. ATTRIBUTIVE: after "den" (maskulin Akkusativ) the ending is -en. "den Blick" is the direct object.
Dat Nach der weiten Reise sind wir müde.
After the long journey we are tired.
weit → weiten · nach = after (+ Dativ always) · die Reise = journey. ATTRIBUTIVE in Dativ: after "der" (feminin Dativ) the ending is -en. Ending shifts -∅ → -en → -en.
billig — cheap (inexpensive)
"Billig" can hint at "cheap = low quality". If you just mean inexpensive/good value, "günstig" sounds nicer. Predicative form has no ending.
Nom Die Miete ist billig.
The rent is cheap.
billig = cheap · die Miete = rent. PREDICATIVE after "ist", so NO ending. "Die Miete" is feminin Nominativ, the subject.
Akk Wir suchen ein billiges Zimmer.
We are looking for a cheap room.
billig → billiges · das Zimmer = room. ATTRIBUTIVE: after "ein" (neutrum Akkusativ) the ending is -es. "ein Zimmer" is the direct object.
Dat In einem billigen Hotel schlafen wir gut.
In a cheap hotel we sleep well.
billig → billigen · das Hotel = hotel. ATTRIBUTIVE in Dativ: after "einem" (neutrum Dativ) the ending is -en. Ending shifts -∅ → -es → -en.
günstig — cheap / good value / favourable
The polite, positive way to say cheap: "günstig" implies a good deal without the negative undertone of "billig". Also "favourable" (ein günstiger Moment). Predicative form has no ending.
Nom Die Wohnung ist sehr günstig.
The apartment is very good value.
günstig = good value · die Wohnung = apartment · sehr = very. PREDICATIVE after "ist", so NO ending. "Die Wohnung" is feminin Nominativ, the subject.
Akk Wir haben einen günstigen Vertrag.
We have a favourable contract.
günstig → günstigen · der Vertrag = contract. ATTRIBUTIVE: after "einen" (maskulin Akkusativ) the ending is -en. "einen Vertrag" is the direct object.
Dat Zu einem günstigen Preis miete ich das Zimmer.
At a favourable price I'll rent the room.
günstig → günstigen · zu = at (+ Dativ always) · der Preis = price. ATTRIBUTIVE in Dativ: after "einem" (maskulin Dativ) the ending is -en. Ending: -∅ → -en → -en.
dunkel — dark
Note the spelling trick: when an ending is added, the "e" drops out — "dunkel" → "ein dunkles Zimmer" (not "dunkeles"). Opposite of "hell". Predicative form has no ending.
Nom Das Zimmer ist dunkel.
The room is dark.
dunkel = dark · das Zimmer = room. PREDICATIVE after "ist", so NO ending. "Das Zimmer" is neutrum Nominativ, the subject.
Akk Ich mag den dunklen Flur nicht.
I don't like the dark hallway.
dunkel → dunklen (the "e" drops!) · der Flur = hallway. ATTRIBUTIVE: after "den" (maskulin Akkusativ) the ending is -en. "den Flur" is the direct object.
Dat In dem dunklen Keller ist es kalt.
In the dark cellar it is cold.
dunkel → dunklen · der Keller = cellar. ATTRIBUTIVE in Dativ: after "dem" (maskulin Dativ, der → dem) the ending is -en. Ending: -∅ → -en → -en.
hell — bright / light
The opposite of "dunkel". A big selling point in ads: "hell und freundlich" (bright and pleasant). Also used for light colours: "hellblau" = light blue. Predicative form has no ending.
Nom Die Küche ist schön hell.
The kitchen is nice and bright.
hell = bright · die Küche = kitchen · schön = nice(ly). PREDICATIVE after "ist", so NO ending. "Die Küche" is feminin Nominativ, the subject.
Akk Wir suchen ein helles Apartment.
We are looking for a bright apartment.
hell → helles · das Apartment = apartment. ATTRIBUTIVE: after "ein" (neutrum Akkusativ) the ending is -es. "ein Apartment" is the direct object.
Dat In dem hellen Zimmer arbeite ich gern.
I like working in the bright room.
hell → hellen · das Zimmer = room · arbeiten = to work. ATTRIBUTIVE in Dativ: after "dem" (neutrum Dativ, das → dem) the ending is -en. Ending: -∅ → -es → -en.
gemütlich — cozy / comfortable
A quintessentially German concept — "Gemütlichkeit" is a warm, cozy, welcoming feeling that's hard to translate. A candle-lit, comfy living room is "gemütlich". Predicative form has no ending.
Nom Das Wohnzimmer ist sehr gemütlich.
The living room is very cozy.
gemütlich = cozy · das Wohnzimmer = living room. PREDICATIVE after "ist", so NO ending. "Das Wohnzimmer" is neutrum Nominativ, the subject.
Akk Wir haben einen gemütlichen Sessel.
We have a cozy armchair.
gemütlich → gemütlichen · der Sessel = armchair. ATTRIBUTIVE: after "einen" (maskulin Akkusativ) the ending is -en. "einen Sessel" is the direct object.
Dat In der gemütlichen Küche trinken wir Tee.
In the cozy kitchen we drink tea.
gemütlich → gemütlichen · die Küche = kitchen · der Tee = tea. ATTRIBUTIVE in Dativ: after "der" (feminin Dativ) the ending is -en. Ending: -∅ → -en → -en.
elegant — elegant
An international word, easy to recognise. Describes stylish, refined furniture or apartments. Predicative form has no ending.
Nom Die Wohnung ist modern und elegant.
The apartment is modern and elegant.
elegant = elegant · die Wohnung = apartment · modern = modern. PREDICATIVE after "ist", so NO ending. "Die Wohnung" is feminin Nominativ, the subject.
Akk Sie kauft einen eleganten Tisch.
She is buying an elegant table.
elegant → eleganten · kaufen = to buy · der Tisch = table. ATTRIBUTIVE: after "einen" (maskulin Akkusativ) the ending is -en. "einen Tisch" is the direct object.
Dat Mit der eleganten Lampe sieht der Raum gut aus.
With the elegant lamp the room looks good.
elegant → eleganten · mit = with (+ Dativ always) · die Lampe = lamp. ATTRIBUTIVE in Dativ: after "der" (feminin Dativ) the ending is -en. Ending: -∅ → -en → -en.
der Blick, -e — view / glance
"Der Blick aufs Meer" = the sea view. Also a quick look: "ein kurzer Blick" = a quick glance. The verb "blicken" means to look/glance. Plural: die Blicke.
Nom Der Blick vom Balkon ist toll.
The view from the balcony is great.
der Blick (maskulin) = view · der Balkon = balcony · toll = great. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Blick is the subject.
Akk Ich liebe den Blick auf den Park.
I love the view of the park.
der Blick (maskulin) = view · lieben = to love · auf = onto · der Park = park. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Blick is the direct object.
Dat Mit dem Blick aufs Meer ist die Wohnung teuer.
With the sea view the apartment is expensive.
der Blick (maskulin) = view · mit = with (+ Dativ always) · das Meer = sea. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit".
aus·sehen — to look / to appear
A separable verb: the "aus-" splits off to the end of the sentence (Die Wohnung sieht schön aus). Always paired with an adjective describing how something looks. Conjugation: ich sehe... aus, du siehst... aus, er sieht... aus (stem-change e→ie).
Nom Der Garten sieht schön aus.
The garden looks beautiful.
aussehen = to look/appear · der Garten = garden · schön = beautiful. Separable verb: "sieht ... aus". "Der Garten" is the subject in Nominativ. The prefix "aus" goes to the very end.
Akk Du hast den Flur gestrichen — er sieht jetzt toll aus.
You painted the hallway — it looks great now.
aussehen = to look · streichen = to paint · der Flur = hallway · toll = great. "den Flur" is maskulin Akkusativ (der → den), the direct object of "gestrichen". Then "sieht ... aus" describes the result.
Dat Mit der neuen Lampe sieht das Zimmer elegant aus.
With the new lamp the room looks elegant.
aussehen = to look · mit = with (+ Dativ always) · die Lampe = lamp · elegant = elegant. "der neuen Lampe" is feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit". "sieht ... aus" is the separable verb.
die Möbel — furniture (plural only)
Careful: in German "Möbel" is normally plural ("die Möbel sind schön" = the furniture is nice). A single piece is "das Möbelstück". Unlike English, you can count them.
Nom Die Möbel sind neu.
The furniture is new.
die Möbel (plural) = furniture · neu = new. "Die" — plural Nominativ, and the verb is plural "sind". Möbel is the subject.
Akk Wir kaufen die Möbel im Möbelhaus.
We are buying the furniture at the furniture store.
die Möbel (plural) = furniture · kaufen = to buy · das Möbelhaus = furniture store. "Die" stays "die" because plural Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Möbel is the direct object.
Dat Mit den Möbeln wirkt die Wohnung gemütlich.
With the furniture the apartment feels cozy.
die Möbel (plural) = furniture · mit = with (+ Dativ always) · wirken = to seem/feel. "Den Möbeln" — plural Dativ: article die → den AND the noun adds an -n (Möbel → Möbeln).
das Gerät, -e — device / appliance
A general word for a machine or gadget. "Küchengeräte" = kitchen appliances, "Elektrogeräte" = electrical devices. Plural: die Geräte.
Nom Das Gerät funktioniert nicht.
The device doesn't work.
das Gerät (neutrum) = device · funktionieren = to work/function. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Gerät is the subject.
Akk Ich schalte das Gerät aus.
I switch the device off.
das Gerät (neutrum) = device · ausschalten = to switch off (separable). "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Gerät is the direct object.
Dat Mit dem Gerät koche ich schneller.
With the device I cook faster.
das Gerät (neutrum) = device · mit = with (+ Dativ always) · schneller = faster. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit".
die Lampe, -n — lamp
A lamp as an object (the fixture). The light it gives is "das Licht". "Die Lampe anmachen" = to turn the lamp on. Plural: die Lampen.
Nom Die Lampe ist kaputt.
The lamp is broken.
die Lampe (feminin) = lamp · kaputt = broken. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Lampe is the subject.
Akk Ich mache die Lampe an.
I turn the lamp on.
die Lampe (feminin) = lamp · anmachen = to turn on (separable). "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Lampe is the direct object.
Dat Unter der Lampe steht der Schreibtisch.
The desk stands under the lamp.
die Lampe (feminin) = lamp · unter = under (+ Dativ for location) · der Schreibtisch = desk. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "unter".
das Licht, -er — light
The light itself (brightness or a light source), not the fixture ("die Lampe"). "Mach das Licht an!" = Turn on the light! Plural: die Lichter (e.g. the many lights of a city).
Nom Das Licht ist zu grell.
The light is too bright/harsh.
das Licht (neutrum) = light · zu = too · grell = harsh/glaring. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Licht is the subject.
Akk Bitte mach das Licht aus!
Please turn off the light!
das Licht (neutrum) = light · ausmachen = to turn off (separable). "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Licht is the direct object.
Dat Bei dem Licht kann ich gut lesen.
In this light I can read well.
das Licht (neutrum) = light · bei = at/in (+ Dativ always) · lesen = to read. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "bei".
die Pflanze, -n — plant
"Eine Zimmerpflanze" is a houseplant. The verb "pflanzen" means to plant. Germans love greenery in their homes. Plural: die Pflanzen.
Nom Die Pflanze steht am Fenster.
The plant stands by the window.
die Pflanze (feminin) = plant · stehen = to stand · das Fenster = window. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Pflanze is the subject.
Akk Ich gieße die Pflanze jeden Tag.
I water the plant every day.
die Pflanze (feminin) = plant · gießen = to water · jeden Tag = every day. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Pflanze is the direct object.
Dat Neben der Pflanze steht ein Regal.
Next to the plant stands a shelf.
die Pflanze (feminin) = plant · neben = next to (+ Dativ for location) · das Regal = shelf. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "neben".
das Regal, -e — shelf / shelving unit
A bookshelf is "das Bücherregal". Most Germans know IKEA's famous "Billy" Regal! Plural: die Regale.
Nom Das Regal ist voll mit Büchern.
The shelf is full of books.
das Regal (neutrum) = shelf · voll = full · das Buch = book. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Regal is the subject.
Akk Wir bauen das Regal zusammen.
We are assembling the shelf.
das Regal (neutrum) = shelf · zusammenbauen = to assemble (separable). "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Regal is the direct object.
Dat Im Regal stehen viele Fotos.
On the shelf there are many photos.
das Regal (neutrum) = shelf · das Foto = photo · stehen = to stand. "Im" = in + dem (das → dem in Dativ) after "in" describing location.
der Schrank, Schränke — cupboard / wardrobe
A closed storage unit with doors: "der Kleiderschrank" = wardrobe, "der Kühlschrank" = fridge (literally "cool-cupboard"). Plural takes an umlaut: Schränke.
Nom Der Schrank ist sehr groß.
The wardrobe is very big.
der Schrank (maskulin) = wardrobe · sehr = very · groß = big. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Schrank is the subject.
Akk Ich stelle den Schrank ins Schlafzimmer.
I put the wardrobe in the bedroom.
der Schrank (maskulin) = wardrobe · stellen = to put/place · das Schlafzimmer = bedroom. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Schrank is the direct object being placed.
Dat Die Kleider liegen in dem Schrank.
The clothes are in the wardrobe.
der Schrank (maskulin) = wardrobe · das Kleid = dress/garment · liegen = to lie. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" describing location. Often "im Schrank".
der Schreibtisch, -e — desk
Literally "write-table" (schreiben = to write + Tisch = table). Where you work or study. Plural: die Schreibtische.
Nom Der Schreibtisch steht am Fenster.
The desk stands by the window.
der Schreibtisch (maskulin) = desk · stehen = to stand · das Fenster = window. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Schreibtisch is the subject.
Akk Ich räume den Schreibtisch auf.
I tidy up the desk.
der Schreibtisch (maskulin) = desk · aufräumen = to tidy up (separable). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Schreibtisch is the direct object.
Dat Auf dem Schreibtisch liegt mein Laptop.
My laptop is on the desk.
der Schreibtisch (maskulin) = desk · auf = on (+ Dativ for location) · der Laptop = laptop. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "auf".
der Sessel, - — armchair
A single comfy armchair (with armrests), as opposed to "das Sofa" (a couch for several people). Plural is identical: die Sessel.
Nom Der Sessel ist sehr bequem.
The armchair is very comfortable.
der Sessel (maskulin) = armchair · bequem = comfortable. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Sessel is the subject.
Akk Wir kaufen den Sessel für das Wohnzimmer.
We are buying the armchair for the living room.
der Sessel (maskulin) = armchair · kaufen = to buy · das Wohnzimmer = living room. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Sessel is the direct object.
Dat Opa sitzt gern in dem Sessel.
Grandpa likes to sit in the armchair.
der Sessel (maskulin) = armchair · sitzen = to sit · gern = gladly/likes to. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in". Often "im Sessel".
das Sofa, -s — sofa / couch
A borrowed word, so it takes an -s plural: Sofas. Synonym: "die Couch". "Auf dem Sofa liegen" = to lie on the couch.
Nom Das Sofa ist neu.
The sofa is new.
das Sofa (neutrum) = sofa · neu = new. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Sofa is the subject.
Akk Wir stellen das Sofa an die Wand.
We put the sofa against the wall.
das Sofa (neutrum) = sofa · stellen = to put · die Wand = wall. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Sofa is the direct object.
Dat Auf dem Sofa schläft die Katze.
The cat sleeps on the sofa.
das Sofa (neutrum) = sofa · auf = on (+ Dativ for location) · schlafen = to sleep. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "auf".
der Stuhl, Stühle — chair
A simple chair (no armrests) — don't confuse with "der Sessel" (comfy armchair). Plural takes an umlaut: Stühle. Also don't confuse "Stuhl" with the English "stool"!
Nom Der Stuhl ist kaputt.
The chair is broken.
der Stuhl (maskulin) = chair · kaputt = broken. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Stuhl is the subject.
Akk Bring bitte den Stuhl in die Küche!
Please bring the chair into the kitchen!
der Stuhl (maskulin) = chair · bringen = to bring · die Küche = kitchen. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Stuhl is the direct object.
Dat Auf dem Stuhl liegt eine Jacke.
A jacket is lying on the chair.
der Stuhl (maskulin) = chair · auf = on (+ Dativ for location) · die Jacke = jacket. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "auf".
der Tisch, -e — table
A very common word. "Der Esstisch" = dining table. "am Tisch sitzen" = to sit at the table. Plural: die Tische.
Nom Der Tisch ist aus Holz.
The table is made of wood.
der Tisch (maskulin) = table · aus Holz = made of wood. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Tisch is the subject.
Akk Ich decke den Tisch für das Abendessen.
I set the table for dinner.
der Tisch (maskulin) = table · den Tisch decken = to set the table · das Abendessen = dinner. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Tisch is the direct object.
Dat Wir sitzen alle an dem Tisch.
We are all sitting at the table.
der Tisch (maskulin) = table · an = at (+ Dativ for location) · sitzen = to sit. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "an". Often "am Tisch".
der Teppich, -e — carpet / rug
Note: it's maskulin even though it ends in -ich. A "fliegender Teppich" is a flying carpet from the fairy tales. Plural: die Teppiche.
Nom Der Teppich ist weich.
The carpet is soft.
der Teppich (maskulin) = carpet · weich = soft. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Teppich is the subject.
Akk Wir legen den Teppich ins Wohnzimmer.
We lay the carpet in the living room.
der Teppich (maskulin) = carpet · legen = to lay/put · das Wohnzimmer = living room. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Teppich is the direct object.
Dat Auf dem Teppich spielen die Kinder.
The children play on the carpet.
der Teppich (maskulin) = carpet · auf = on (+ Dativ for location) · spielen = to play. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "auf".
das Bett, -en — bed
"ins Bett gehen" = to go to bed. Note the plural ending -en: die Betten. German beds famously use two separate single duvets even for couples!
Nom Das Bett ist sehr bequem.
The bed is very comfortable.
das Bett (neutrum) = bed · bequem = comfortable. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Bett is the subject.
Akk Jeden Morgen mache ich das Bett.
Every morning I make the bed.
das Bett (neutrum) = bed · das Bett machen = to make the bed · der Morgen = morning. "Das" stays "das" because neutrum Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Bett is the direct object.
Dat Im Bett lese ich noch ein Buch.
In bed I read a book.
das Bett (neutrum) = bed · lesen = to read · das Buch = book. "Im" = in + dem (das → dem in Dativ) after "in" describing location.
der Fernseher, - — television (set)
The TV set is "der Fernseher"; the activity of watching is "fernsehen" (fern = far + sehen = to see). Plural is identical: die Fernseher.
Nom Der Fernseher ist neu.
The television is new.
der Fernseher (maskulin) = TV set · neu = new. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Fernseher is the subject.
Akk Am Abend schalte ich den Fernseher ein.
In the evening I turn on the television.
der Fernseher (maskulin) = TV · einschalten = to turn on (separable) · der Abend = evening. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Fernseher is the direct object.
Dat Auf dem Fernseher steht eine Pflanze.
A plant is standing on the television.
der Fernseher (maskulin) = TV · auf = on (+ Dativ for location) · die Pflanze = plant. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "auf".
der Herd, -e — stove / cooker
The cooktop/stove where you cook (not the oven, which is "der Backofen"). "Der Herd ist an" = the stove is on. Plural: die Herde.
Nom Der Herd ist noch heiß.
The stove is still hot.
der Herd (maskulin) = stove · noch = still · heiß = hot. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Herd is the subject.
Akk Bitte mach den Herd aus!
Please turn off the stove!
der Herd (maskulin) = stove · ausmachen = to turn off (separable). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Herd is the direct object.
Dat Auf dem Herd steht ein Topf.
A pot is standing on the stove.
der Herd (maskulin) = stove · auf = on (+ Dativ for location) · der Topf = pot. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "auf".
die Kaffeemaschine, -n — coffee machine
All "-maschine" words are feminin (die Maschine). Coffee is serious business in Germany — the coffee machine is a kitchen essential. Plural: die Kaffeemaschinen.
Nom Die Kaffeemaschine ist kaputt.
The coffee machine is broken.
die Kaffeemaschine (feminin) = coffee machine · kaputt = broken. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Kaffeemaschine is the subject.
Akk Am Morgen schalte ich die Kaffeemaschine an.
In the morning I turn on the coffee machine.
die Kaffeemaschine (feminin) = coffee machine · anschalten = to turn on (separable) · der Morgen = morning. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Kaffeemaschine is the direct object.
Dat Mit der Kaffeemaschine geht es schnell.
With the coffee machine it's quick.
die Kaffeemaschine (feminin) = coffee machine · mit = with (+ Dativ always) · schnell = quick. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
der Kühlschrank, Kühlschränke — refrigerator
Literally "cool-cupboard" (kühl = cool + Schrank = cupboard). A "Schrank" word, so maskulin, and the plural takes an umlaut: Kühlschränke.
Nom Der Kühlschrank ist leer.
The refrigerator is empty.
der Kühlschrank (maskulin) = refrigerator · leer = empty. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Kühlschrank is the subject.
Akk Ich mache den Kühlschrank sauber.
I clean the refrigerator.
der Kühlschrank (maskulin) = refrigerator · sauber machen = to clean. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Kühlschrank is the direct object.
Dat Die Milch ist in dem Kühlschrank.
The milk is in the refrigerator.
der Kühlschrank (maskulin) = refrigerator · die Milch = milk · in = in (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in". Often "im Kühlschrank".
die Spülmaschine, -n — dishwasher
From "spülen" (to rinse/wash up) + Maschine. Also called "der Geschirrspüler". A "-maschine" word, so feminin. Plural: die Spülmaschinen.
Nom Die Spülmaschine ist fertig.
The dishwasher is done.
die Spülmaschine (feminin) = dishwasher · fertig = finished/done. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Spülmaschine is the subject.
Akk Kannst du die Spülmaschine ausräumen?
Can you empty the dishwasher?
die Spülmaschine (feminin) = dishwasher · ausräumen = to empty out (separable) · können = can. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Spülmaschine is the direct object.
Dat In der Spülmaschine ist noch Geschirr.
There are still dishes in the dishwasher.
die Spülmaschine (feminin) = dishwasher · das Geschirr = dishes · in = in (+ Dativ for location). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in".
die Waschmaschine, -n — washing machine
From "waschen" (to wash) + Maschine. In many German buildings the washing machine is in a shared "Waschküche" (laundry room) in the basement. Plural: die Waschmaschinen.
Nom Die Waschmaschine läuft gerade.
The washing machine is running right now.
die Waschmaschine (feminin) = washing machine · laufen = to run · gerade = right now. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Waschmaschine is the subject.
Akk Ich mache die Waschmaschine an.
I turn on the washing machine.
die Waschmaschine (feminin) = washing machine · anmachen = to turn on (separable). "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Waschmaschine is the direct object.
Dat Die Wäsche ist in der Waschmaschine.
The laundry is in the washing machine.
die Waschmaschine (feminin) = washing machine · die Wäsche = laundry · in = in (+ Dativ for location). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in".
die Anzeige, -n — advertisement / listing
A classified ad, e.g. for an apartment: "eine Wohnungsanzeige". Also means a display (like a digital readout) or a report to the police. Plural: die Anzeigen.
Nom Die Anzeige steht in der Zeitung.
The ad is in the newspaper.
die Anzeige (feminin) = ad · stehen = to be (written) · die Zeitung = newspaper. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Anzeige is the subject.
Akk Ich lese die Anzeige im Internet.
I read the ad on the internet.
die Anzeige (feminin) = ad · lesen = to read · das Internet = internet. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Anzeige is the direct object.
Dat In der Anzeige steht der Preis.
The price is in the ad.
die Anzeige (feminin) = ad · der Preis = price · in = in (+ Dativ for location). "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in".
besichtigen — to view / to visit (a property)
The formal verb for viewing an apartment or a sight before deciding. "Eine Wohnung besichtigen" = to view a flat. No "ge-" prefix in the perfect (besichtigt), because verbs with the be- prefix don't take ge-.
Nom Die Interessentin besichtigt heute die Wohnung.
The (female) prospective tenant is viewing the apartment today.
besichtigen = to view · die Interessentin = prospective party (f) · heute = today. Conjugation: sie besichtigt. "Die Interessentin" is the subject (Nominativ) doing the viewing.
Akk Wir besichtigen die Wohnung am Samstag.
We are viewing the apartment on Saturday.
besichtigen = to view · die Wohnung = apartment · der Samstag = Saturday. Conjugation: wir besichtigen. "die Wohnung" is feminin Akkusativ (die = die), the direct object being viewed.
Dat Nach der Besichtigung entscheiden wir uns.
After the viewing we'll decide.
besichtigen → die Besichtigung = the viewing (noun) · nach = after (+ Dativ always) · sich entscheiden = to decide. "der Besichtigung" is feminin Dativ (die → der) after "nach".
unterschreiben — to sign
Literally "under-write" (like signing under a text). It is INSEPARABLE — the "unter-" stays attached (ich unterschreibe, not "ich schreibe unter"). Perfect: unterschrieben (no ge-).
Nom Der Mieter unterschreibt sofort.
The tenant signs immediately.
unterschreiben = to sign · der Mieter = tenant · sofort = immediately. Conjugation: er unterschreibt (inseparable, prefix stays). "Der Mieter" is the subject (Nominativ).
Akk Ich unterschreibe den Vertrag heute.
I sign the contract today.
unterschreiben = to sign · der Vertrag = contract · heute = today. "den Vertrag" is maskulin Akkusativ (der → den), the direct object being signed.
Dat Mit der Unterschrift ist alles offiziell.
With the signature everything is official.
unterschreiben → die Unterschrift = signature (noun) · mit = with (+ Dativ always) · offiziell = official. "der Unterschrift" is feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit".
der Vertrag, Verträge — contract
"Der Mietvertrag" is the rental contract you sign with your landlord — a big moment! Plural takes an umlaut: Verträge. "einen Vertrag abschließen" = to conclude a contract.
Nom Der Vertrag ist gültig.
The contract is valid.
der Vertrag (maskulin) = contract · gültig = valid. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Vertrag is the subject.
Akk Wir lesen den Vertrag genau.
We read the contract carefully.
der Vertrag (maskulin) = contract · lesen = to read · genau = exactly/carefully. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Vertrag is the direct object.
Dat In dem Vertrag steht die Miete.
The rent is in the contract.
der Vertrag (maskulin) = contract · die Miete = rent · in = in (+ Dativ for location). "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in". Often "im Vertrag".
vermieten — to rent out / to let
The direction matters! "vermieten" = to rent OUT (the owner's side); "mieten" = to rent (the tenant's side). The "ver-" prefix flips the direction. Inseparable.
Nom Der Besitzer vermietet günstig.
The owner rents out cheaply.
vermieten = to rent out · der Besitzer = owner · günstig = cheaply. Conjugation: er vermietet. "Der Besitzer" is the subject (Nominativ) doing the renting-out.
Akk Sie vermietet die Wohnung an Studenten.
She rents out the apartment to students.
vermieten = to rent out · die Wohnung = apartment · an = to · der Student = student. "die Wohnung" is feminin Akkusativ (die = die), the direct object being rented out.
Dat Er vermietet das Zimmer einem Studenten.
He rents the room to a student.
vermieten = to rent out · das Zimmer = room · der Student = student. "einem Studenten" is maskulin Dativ (ein → einem), the indirect object (recipient) — the person the room is rented to. (Student is an n-noun, so it adds -en.)
mieten — to rent (as a tenant)
This is the tenant's verb: YOU rent (pay for) a flat. Compare "vermieten" (the owner's verb). Regular: ich miete, du mietest, er mietet.
Nom Die Familie mietet ein Haus.
The family is renting a house.
mieten = to rent · die Familie = family · das Haus = house. Conjugation: sie mietet. "Die Familie" is the subject (Nominativ) doing the renting.
Akk Ich miete die Wohnung ab September.
I'm renting the apartment from September.
mieten = to rent · die Wohnung = apartment · ab = from · der September = September. "die Wohnung" is feminin Akkusativ (die = die), the direct object being rented.
Dat Von dem Vermieter miete ich zwei Zimmer.
From the landlord I'm renting two rooms.
mieten = to rent · von = from (+ Dativ always) · der Vermieter = landlord. "dem Vermieter" is maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "von" — the source you rent from.
die Miete, -n — rent (the payment)
The monthly money you pay. "Warmmiete" includes utilities; "Kaltmiete" is rent without them — always check which one an ad quotes! Plural: die Mieten.
Nom Die Miete ist zu hoch.
The rent is too high.
die Miete (feminin) = rent · zu = too · hoch = high. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Miete is the subject.
Akk Ich zahle die Miete am Ersten.
I pay the rent on the first (of the month).
die Miete (feminin) = rent · zahlen = to pay · der Erste = the first. "Die" stays "die" because feminin Akkusativ equals Nominativ. Miete is the direct object.
Dat Bei der Miete ist das Wasser inklusive.
With the rent, water is included.
die Miete (feminin) = rent · bei = with (+ Dativ always) · inklusive = included. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "bei".
der Vermieter, - — landlord
The person who rents out (vermietet) to you. Female form: "die Vermieterin". Plural is identical: die Vermieter. Your counterpart is "der Mieter" (tenant).
Nom Der Vermieter ist sehr freundlich.
The landlord is very friendly.
der Vermieter (maskulin) = landlord · freundlich = friendly. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Vermieter is the subject.
Akk Ich rufe den Vermieter an.
I'm calling the landlord.
der Vermieter (maskulin) = landlord · anrufen = to call (separable). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Vermieter is the direct object being called.
Dat Ich gebe dem Vermieter die Kaution.
I give the landlord the deposit.
der Vermieter (maskulin) = landlord · geben = to give · die Kaution = deposit. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem): the landlord is the indirect object (the recipient of the deposit).
packen — to pack
"Die Koffer packen" = to pack the suitcases. Also colloquially "Ich packe das!" = I can handle/manage it! Regular verb: ich packe, du packst.
Nom Die Freunde packen zusammen.
The friends are packing together.
packen = to pack · der Freund = friend · zusammen = together. Conjugation: sie packen. "Die Freunde" (plural) is the subject (Nominativ) doing the packing.
Akk Ich packe die Bücher in eine Kiste.
I pack the books into a box.
packen = to pack · das Buch = book · die Kiste = box. "die Bücher" is plural Akkusativ (die = die), the direct object being packed.
Dat Bei dem Umzug packen alle mit.
Everyone helps pack during the move.
packen = to pack · mitpacken = to help pack · bei = during (+ Dativ always) · der Umzug = move. "dem Umzug" is maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "bei".
ziehen — to move (house) / to pull
"umziehen" = to move house; "einziehen" = to move in; "ausziehen" = to move out. On its own "ziehen" also means to pull. It takes "sein" in the perfect for movement: "Ich bin umgezogen".
Nom Die Familie zieht nach Berlin.
The family is moving to Berlin.
ziehen = to move · die Familie = family · nach Berlin = to Berlin. Conjugation: sie zieht. "Die Familie" is the subject (Nominativ) doing the moving.
Akk Ich ziehe den Schrank zur Tür.
I pull the wardrobe to the door.
ziehen = to pull · der Schrank = wardrobe · die Tür = door. "den Schrank" is maskulin Akkusativ (der → den), the direct object being pulled.
Dat Nach dem Studium ziehe ich nach Hamburg.
After my studies I'm moving to Hamburg.
ziehen = to move (house) · nach = after (+ Dativ always) · das Studium = studies. "dem Studium" is neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "nach". Here "ziehen" means to move house.