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Netzwerk 11: Clothing
Chapter 11 — clothing items, shops, fashion talk, and online shopping.
Maskulin Feminin Neutrum Plural
die Kleidung — clothing
A collective, uncountable noun — usually used only in the singular, like "clothing" in English. You don't say "die Kleidungen"; you'd list items or say "die Sachen".
Nom Die Kleidung ist neu.
The clothing is new.
die Kleidung (feminin) = clothing · neu = new. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Kleidung is the subject.
Akk Ich kaufe die Kleidung online.
I buy the clothing online.
die Kleidung (feminin) = clothing · kaufen = to buy · online = online. Feminin stays "die" in Akkusativ (die → die). Kleidung is the direct object.
Dat Mit der Kleidung bin ich zufrieden.
I am happy with the clothing.
die Kleidung (feminin) = clothing · zufrieden = satisfied/happy. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit". "mit" always takes Dativ.
die Hose, -n — trousers, pants
Careful: German uses the singular "die Hose" for one pair of trousers, unlike English "trousers/pants" which is plural. Plural "die Hosen" means several pairs.
Nom Die Hose ist zu eng.
The trousers are too tight.
die Hose (feminin) = trousers · zu = too · eng = tight. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Hose is the subject.
Akk Ich trage die Hose gern.
I like wearing the trousers.
die Hose (feminin) = trousers · tragen = to wear · gern = gladly/like to. Feminin stays "die" in Akkusativ. Hose is the direct object.
Dat Zu der Hose passt ein Gürtel.
A belt goes with the trousers.
die Hose (feminin) = trousers · passen = to go with/fit · der Gürtel = belt. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "zu". "zu" always takes Dativ.
die Jeans, - — jeans
An English loanword that German made feminine: "die Jeans". The plural looks the same as the singular. Very common everyday word.
Nom Die Jeans ist bequem.
The jeans are comfortable.
die Jeans (feminin) = jeans · bequem = comfortable. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Jeans is the subject.
Akk Er kauft die Jeans im Laden.
He buys the jeans in the shop.
die Jeans (feminin) = jeans · kaufen = to buy · der Laden = shop. Feminin stays "die" in Akkusativ. Jeans is the direct object.
Dat In der Jeans fühle ich mich wohl.
I feel comfortable in the jeans.
die Jeans (feminin) = jeans · sich wohlfühlen = to feel good. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" (location, no movement → Dativ).
das T-Shirt, -s — T-shirt
Another English loanword; German keeps the "-s" plural. It's neutrum: "das T-Shirt". Everyday casual wear.
Nom Das T-Shirt ist weiß.
The T-shirt is white.
das T-Shirt (neutrum) = T-shirt · weiß = white. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. T-Shirt is the subject.
Akk Ich ziehe das T-Shirt an.
I put on the T-shirt.
das T-Shirt (neutrum) = T-shirt · anziehen = to put on. Neutrum stays "das" in Akkusativ (das → das). T-Shirt is the direct object.
Dat Auf dem T-Shirt ist ein Bild.
There is a picture on the T-shirt.
das T-Shirt (neutrum) = T-shirt · das Bild = picture. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "auf" (location, no movement → Dativ).
das Hemd, -en — shirt (button-up)
"Das Hemd" is a button-up shirt, more formal than a T-Shirt. Note the plural is "-en": die Hemden. Neutrum despite being a typically "manly" garment.
Nom Das Hemd ist blau.
The shirt is blue.
das Hemd (neutrum) = shirt · blau = blue. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Hemd is the subject.
Akk Er trägt das Hemd im Büro.
He wears the shirt in the office.
das Hemd (neutrum) = shirt · tragen = to wear · das Büro = office. Neutrum stays "das" in Akkusativ. Hemd is the direct object.
Dat Zu dem Hemd trägt er eine Krawatte.
He wears a tie with the shirt.
das Hemd (neutrum) = shirt · die Krawatte = tie. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "zu". "zu" always takes Dativ.
das Kleid, -er — dress
The plural "die Kleider" can also mean "clothes" in an older, broad sense (as in "Kleider machen Leute" — clothes make the man). The singular "das Kleid" is one dress.
Nom Das Kleid ist sehr schön.
The dress is very beautiful.
das Kleid (neutrum) = dress · sehr = very · schön = beautiful. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Kleid is the subject.
Akk Sie probiert das Kleid an.
She tries on the dress.
das Kleid (neutrum) = dress · anprobieren = to try on. Neutrum stays "das" in Akkusativ. Kleid is the direct object.
Dat In dem Kleid sieht sie toll aus.
She looks great in the dress.
das Kleid (neutrum) = dress · aussehen = to look/appear · toll = great. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in" (location → Dativ).
der Anzug, Anzüge — suit
"Der Anzug" is a men's formal suit. The plural takes an umlaut: die Anzüge. It comes from "anziehen" (to put on) — literally "the thing you put on".
Nom Der Anzug ist elegant.
The suit is elegant.
der Anzug (maskulin) = suit · elegant = elegant. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Anzug is the subject.
Akk Er kauft den Anzug für die Hochzeit.
He buys the suit for the wedding.
der Anzug (maskulin) = suit · kaufen = to buy · die Hochzeit = wedding. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Anzug is the direct object.
Dat In dem Anzug sieht er gut aus.
He looks good in the suit.
der Anzug (maskulin) = suit · aussehen = to look. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" (location → Dativ).
die Bluse, -n — blouse
"Die Bluse" is a women's blouse — the feminine counterpart to "das Hemd". Easy to remember: blouse → Bluse, feminin.
Nom Die Bluse ist aus Seide.
The blouse is made of silk.
die Bluse (feminin) = blouse · aus = out of/made of · die Seide = silk. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Bluse is the subject.
Akk Sie trägt die Bluse zur Arbeit.
She wears the blouse to work.
die Bluse (feminin) = blouse · tragen = to wear · die Arbeit = work. Feminin stays "die" in Akkusativ. Bluse is the direct object.
Dat Zu der Bluse passt ein Rock.
A skirt goes with the blouse.
die Bluse (feminin) = blouse · passen = to go with · der Rock = skirt. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "zu". "zu" always takes Dativ.
der Rock, Röcke — skirt
"Der Rock" is a skirt (maskulin), plural with umlaut: die Röcke. Fun fact: the German word for rock music is also "der Rock", spelled the same!
Nom Der Rock ist kurz.
The skirt is short.
der Rock (maskulin) = skirt · kurz = short. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Rock is the subject.
Akk Ich finde den Rock schön.
I think the skirt is nice.
der Rock (maskulin) = skirt · finden = to find/think · schön = nice. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Rock is the direct object.
Dat Mit dem Rock trägt sie Stiefel.
She wears boots with the skirt.
der Rock (maskulin) = skirt · der Stiefel = boot. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit". "mit" always takes Dativ.
die Jacke, -n — jacket
"Die Jacke" is a jacket — lighter than a coat (der Mantel). Feminin. A very useful everyday word in German weather!
Nom Die Jacke ist warm.
The jacket is warm.
die Jacke (feminin) = jacket · warm = warm. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Jacke is the subject.
Akk Zieh die Jacke an, es ist kalt!
Put on the jacket, it's cold!
die Jacke (feminin) = jacket · anziehen = to put on · kalt = cold. Feminin stays "die" in Akkusativ. Jacke is the direct object.
Dat In der Jacke ist mein Schlüssel.
My key is in the jacket.
die Jacke (feminin) = jacket · der Schlüssel = key. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" (location → Dativ).
der Mantel, Mäntel — coat
"Der Mantel" is a long, heavy coat for winter. Plural adds umlaut: die Mäntel. Warmer and longer than eine Jacke.
Nom Der Mantel ist lang.
The coat is long.
der Mantel (maskulin) = coat · lang = long. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Mantel is the subject.
Akk Im Winter trage ich den Mantel.
In winter I wear the coat.
der Mantel (maskulin) = coat · der Winter = winter · tragen = to wear. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Mantel is the direct object.
Dat Unter dem Mantel trägt sie einen Pullover.
She wears a pullover under the coat.
der Mantel (maskulin) = coat · unter = under · der Pullover = pullover. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "unter" (location → Dativ).
der Pullover, - — pullover, sweater
Often shortened to "der Pulli" in everyday speech. Plural is the same as singular: die Pullover. An English-derived word, but maskulin in German.
Nom Der Pullover ist aus Wolle.
The pullover is made of wool.
der Pullover (maskulin) = pullover · aus = made of · die Wolle = wool. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Pullover is the subject.
Akk Ich ziehe den Pullover aus.
I take off the pullover.
der Pullover (maskulin) = pullover · ausziehen = to take off. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Pullover is the direct object.
Dat Mit dem Pullover ist mir warm.
I am warm with the pullover.
der Pullover (maskulin) = pullover · warm = warm. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit". "mit" always takes Dativ.
der Schal, -s — scarf
"Der Schal" is a scarf you wrap around your neck. Plural "die Schals". Don't confuse it with "die Schale" (bowl/peel), a different feminin word.
Nom Der Schal ist rot.
The scarf is red.
der Schal (maskulin) = scarf · rot = red. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Schal is the subject.
Akk Sie trägt den Schal im Winter.
She wears the scarf in winter.
der Schal (maskulin) = scarf · tragen = to wear · der Winter = winter. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Schal is the direct object.
Dat Mit dem Schal friere ich nicht.
With the scarf I don't get cold.
der Schal (maskulin) = scarf · frieren = to freeze/be cold. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit". "mit" always takes Dativ.
der Schuh, -e — shoe
Usually used in the plural "die Schuhe" (shoes), since they come in pairs. The singular "der Schuh" is one shoe. Maskulin.
Nom Der Schuh ist zu groß.
The shoe is too big.
der Schuh (maskulin) = shoe · zu = too · groß = big. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Schuh is the subject.
Akk Ich probiere den Schuh an.
I try on the shoe.
der Schuh (maskulin) = shoe · anprobieren = to try on. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Schuh is the direct object.
Dat In dem Schuh ist ein Stein.
There is a stone in the shoe.
der Schuh (maskulin) = shoe · der Stein = stone. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" (location → Dativ).
der Stiefel, - — boot
"Der Stiefel" is a boot; the plural is the same, die Stiefel. Fun fact: a large boot-shaped beer glass is also called "ein Stiefel Bier".
Nom Der Stiefel ist aus Leder.
The boot is made of leather.
der Stiefel (maskulin) = boot · aus = made of · das Leder = leather. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Stiefel is the subject.
Akk Sie kauft den Stiefel im Kaufhaus.
She buys the boot in the department store.
der Stiefel (maskulin) = boot · kaufen = to buy · das Kaufhaus = department store. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Stiefel is the direct object.
Dat In dem Stiefel sind meine Füße warm.
My feet are warm in the boot.
der Stiefel (maskulin) = boot · der Fuß / die Füße = foot/feet. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" (location → Dativ).
die Socke, -n — sock
"Die Socke" (feminin), almost always used in the plural "die Socken" since socks come in pairs. Memory aid: sock → Socke, easy.
Nom Die Socke hat ein Loch.
The sock has a hole.
die Socke (feminin) = sock · das Loch = hole. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Socke is the subject.
Akk Ich ziehe die Socke an.
I put on the sock.
die Socke (feminin) = sock · anziehen = to put on. Feminin stays "die" in Akkusativ. Socke is the direct object.
Dat Mit der Socke ist mein Fuß warm.
My foot is warm with the sock.
die Socke (feminin) = sock · der Fuß = foot · warm = warm. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit". "mit" always takes Dativ.
die Mütze, -n — hat, cap (soft, warm)
"Die Mütze" is a soft, warm cap (like a woolly beanie), as opposed to "der Hut" (a firm hat). Feminin. Essential for German winters.
Nom Die Mütze ist warm.
The cap is warm.
die Mütze (feminin) = cap · warm = warm. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Mütze is the subject.
Akk Das Kind trägt die Mütze.
The child wears the cap.
die Mütze (feminin) = cap · das Kind = child · tragen = to wear. Feminin stays "die" in Akkusativ. Mütze is the direct object.
Dat Mit der Mütze ist mir nicht kalt.
With the cap I am not cold.
die Mütze (feminin) = cap · kalt = cold. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit". "mit" always takes Dativ.
der Hut, Hüte — hat (firm-brimmed)
"Der Hut" is a proper hat with a brim (sun hat, felt hat), maskulin, plural with umlaut: die Hüte. Compare "die Mütze" (soft cap). Idiom: "Hut ab!" = "Hats off!" (well done).
Nom Der Hut ist neu.
The hat is new.
der Hut (maskulin) = hat · neu = new. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Hut is the subject.
Akk Er setzt den Hut auf.
He puts on the hat.
der Hut (maskulin) = hat · aufsetzen = to put on (headwear). "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Hut is the direct object.
Dat Mit dem Hut sieht er elegant aus.
He looks elegant with the hat.
der Hut (maskulin) = hat · aussehen = to look · elegant = elegant. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit". "mit" always takes Dativ.
der Gürtel, - — belt
"Der Gürtel" (maskulin), plural is the same: die Gürtel. Idiom: "den Gürtel enger schnallen" = to tighten one's belt (spend less).
Nom Der Gürtel ist aus Leder.
The belt is made of leather.
der Gürtel (maskulin) = belt · aus = made of · das Leder = leather. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Gürtel is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche den Gürtel für die Hose.
I need the belt for the trousers.
der Gürtel (maskulin) = belt · brauchen = to need · die Hose = trousers. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Gürtel is the direct object.
Dat Mit dem Gürtel passt die Hose besser.
The trousers fit better with the belt.
der Gürtel (maskulin) = belt · passen = to fit · besser = better. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit". "mit" always takes Dativ.
die Krawatte, -n — tie
"Die Krawatte" is a necktie (feminin). The word comes from "Kroate" (Croat), after scarves worn by Croatian soldiers. An informal alternative is "der Schlips".
Nom Die Krawatte ist blau.
The tie is blue.
die Krawatte (feminin) = tie · blau = blue. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Krawatte is the subject.
Akk Er trägt die Krawatte zum Anzug.
He wears the tie with the suit.
die Krawatte (feminin) = tie · tragen = to wear · der Anzug = suit. Feminin stays "die" in Akkusativ. Krawatte is the direct object.
Dat Mit der Krawatte sieht er seriös aus.
He looks smart with the tie.
die Krawatte (feminin) = tie · seriös = serious/smart · aussehen = to look. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit". "mit" always takes Dativ.
das Kleidergeschäft, -e — clothing store
A compound: "Kleider" (clothes) + "Geschäft" (store). The gender always comes from the last part, "das Geschäft", so it's neutrum. Plural: die Kleidergeschäfte.
Nom Das Kleidergeschäft ist neu.
The clothing store is new.
das Kleidergeschäft (neutrum) = clothing store · neu = new. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ (gender from "das Geschäft"). Kleidergeschäft is the subject.
Akk Ich suche das Kleidergeschäft.
I am looking for the clothing store.
das Kleidergeschäft (neutrum) = clothing store · suchen = to look for. Neutrum stays "das" in Akkusativ. Kleidergeschäft is the direct object.
Dat In dem Kleidergeschäft gibt es viele Blusen.
There are many blouses in the clothing store.
das Kleidergeschäft (neutrum) = clothing store · es gibt = there is/are · die Bluse = blouse. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in" (location → Dativ). Note: "in dem" often shortens to "im".
das Kaufhaus, Kaufhäuser — department store
A compound: "kaufen" (to buy) + "Haus" (house). Gender comes from "das Haus" → neutrum. Plural with umlaut: die Kaufhäuser. A big store selling many kinds of goods.
Nom Das Kaufhaus ist groß.
The department store is big.
das Kaufhaus (neutrum) = department store · groß = big. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ (gender from "das Haus"). Kaufhaus is the subject.
Akk Wir besuchen das Kaufhaus am Samstag.
We visit the department store on Saturday.
das Kaufhaus (neutrum) = department store · besuchen = to visit · der Samstag = Saturday. Neutrum stays "das" in Akkusativ. Kaufhaus is the direct object.
Dat In dem Kaufhaus kann man alles kaufen.
You can buy everything in the department store.
das Kaufhaus (neutrum) = department store · alles = everything · kaufen = to buy. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in" (location → Dativ). Often shortened to "im".
der Laden, Läden — shop, store
"Der Laden" is a smaller shop (maskulin), plural with umlaut: die Läden. More casual than "das Geschäft". Colloquially: "Der Laden läuft gut" = business is going well.
Nom Der Laden ist geschlossen.
The shop is closed.
der Laden (maskulin) = shop · geschlossen = closed. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Laden is the subject.
Akk Ich kenne den Laden gut.
I know the shop well.
der Laden (maskulin) = shop · kennen = to know · gut = well. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Laden is the direct object.
Dat In dem Laden gibt es schöne Schuhe.
There are nice shoes in the shop.
der Laden (maskulin) = shop · es gibt = there is/are · der Schuh = shoe. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" (location → Dativ). Often shortened to "im".
die Mode, -n — fashion
"Die Mode" (feminin) means fashion or the current trend. "in Mode sein" = to be in fashion. The adjective is "modisch" (fashionable).
Nom Die Mode ändert sich schnell.
Fashion changes quickly.
die Mode (feminin) = fashion · sich ändern = to change · schnell = fast. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Mode is the subject.
Akk Sie liebt die Mode aus Italien.
She loves the fashion from Italy.
die Mode (feminin) = fashion · lieben = to love · Italien = Italy. Feminin stays "die" in Akkusativ. Mode is the direct object.
Dat Mit der Mode kenne ich mich nicht aus.
I don't know much about fashion.
die Mode (feminin) = fashion · sich auskennen = to know one's way around. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit". "mit" always takes Dativ.
bequem — comfortable
Adjective for comfortable/comfy clothing or furniture. Watch how the ending changes with the case: predicative (no ending) → attributive (adds -en in Akk/Dat here).
Nom Der Pullover ist bequem.
The pullover is comfortable.
bequem = comfortable · der Pullover (maskulin) = pullover. Predicative use (after "ist") → NO ending on bequem. "Der" is maskulin Nominativ, the subject.
Akk Ich kaufe den bequemen Pullover.
I buy the comfortable pullover.
bequem = comfortable · kaufen = to buy. Attributive use before the noun → ending -en: "bequemen". Maskulin Akkusativ (der → den) triggers -en. Pullover is the direct object.
Dat In dem bequemen Pullover schlafe ich gut.
I sleep well in the comfortable pullover.
bequem = comfortable · schlafen = to sleep. Attributive in Dativ → ending -en: "bequemen". Maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" (location). Ending pattern: -∅ → -en → -en.
eng — tight, narrow
"Eng" describes tight-fitting clothes or narrow spaces. It's the opposite of "weit" (loose/wide). Note the adjective ending changes when it comes before a noun.
Nom Die Hose ist eng.
The trousers are tight.
eng = tight · die Hose (feminin) = trousers. Predicative use (after "ist") → NO ending. "Die" is feminin Nominativ, the subject.
Akk Ich mag die enge Hose nicht.
I don't like the tight trousers.
eng = tight · mögen = to like. Attributive before a feminin Akkusativ noun → ending -e: "enge". Feminin stays "die" in Akkusativ. Hose is the direct object.
Dat In der engen Hose ist es unbequem.
It is uncomfortable in the tight trousers.
eng = tight · unbequem = uncomfortable. Attributive in Dativ → ending -en: "engen". Feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in". Ending pattern here: -∅ → -e → -en.
weit — wide, loose
For clothes, "weit" means loose/roomy (opposite of "eng"). It can also mean "far" (eine weite Reise = a long journey). Watch the adjective endings.
Nom Der Mantel ist weit.
The coat is loose/wide.
weit = wide/loose · der Mantel (maskulin) = coat. Predicative use (after "ist") → NO ending. "Der" is maskulin Nominativ, the subject.
Akk Ich trage lieber den weiten Mantel.
I prefer to wear the loose coat.
weit = wide/loose · tragen = to wear · lieber = rather/prefer. Attributive → ending -en: "weiten". Maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Mantel is the direct object.
Dat In dem weiten Mantel ist viel Platz.
There is a lot of room in the loose coat.
weit = wide/loose · der Platz = room/space. Attributive in Dativ → ending -en: "weiten". Maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in". Ending pattern: -∅ → -en → -en.
kurz — short
"Kurz" = short in length or time (eine kurze Pause = a short break). Opposite of "lang". The comparative is irregular: kurz → kürzer → am kürzesten.
Nom Der Rock ist kurz.
The skirt is short.
kurz = short · der Rock (maskulin) = skirt. Predicative use (after "ist") → NO ending. "Der" is maskulin Nominativ, the subject.
Akk Sie trägt den kurzen Rock.
She wears the short skirt.
kurz = short · tragen = to wear. Attributive → ending -en: "kurzen". Maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Rock is the direct object.
Dat Mit dem kurzen Rock friert sie.
She is cold with the short skirt.
kurz = short · frieren = to be cold. Attributive in Dativ → ending -en: "kurzen". Maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit". Ending pattern: -∅ → -en → -en.
lang — long
"Lang" = long in length or time. Opposite of "kurz". The comparative is irregular with umlaut: lang → länger → am längsten.
Nom Das Kleid ist lang.
The dress is long.
lang = long · das Kleid (neutrum) = dress. Predicative use (after "ist") → NO ending. "Das" is neutrum Nominativ, the subject.
Akk Ich finde das lange Kleid schön.
I think the long dress is beautiful.
lang = long · finden = to find/think. Attributive before neutrum Akkusativ → ending -e: "lange". Neutrum stays "das" in Akkusativ. Kleid is the direct object.
Dat In dem langen Kleid tanzt sie.
She dances in the long dress.
lang = long · tanzen = to dance. Attributive in Dativ → ending -en: "langen". Neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "in". Ending pattern here: -∅ → -e → -en.
die Größe, -n — size
"Die Größe" is the clothing size (feminin), from the adjective "groß". Useful shopping question: "Welche Größe haben Sie?" = What size are you?
Nom Die Größe ist zu klein.
The size is too small.
die Größe (feminin) = size · zu = too · klein = small. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Größe is the subject.
Akk Ich brauche die Größe 40.
I need size 40.
die Größe (feminin) = size · brauchen = to need. Feminin stays "die" in Akkusativ. Größe is the direct object.
Dat Mit der Größe bin ich nicht sicher.
I am not sure about the size.
die Größe (feminin) = size · sicher = sure. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit". "mit" always takes Dativ.
passen — to fit
"Passen" means to fit (size) or to go well with something. Important: the item that "fits me" is the subject, and the person is in the Dativ: "Die Hose passt mir" = The trousers fit me.
Nom Die Jacke passt gut.
The jacket fits well.
passen = to fit · die Jacke (feminin) = jacket · gut = well. "Die Jacke" is the Nominativ subject; the verb "passt" (er/sie/es form) agrees with it.
Akk Der Verkäufer sucht die passende Größe.
The salesperson looks for the fitting size.
passen = to fit (here as adjective "passend") · der Verkäufer = salesperson · suchen = to look for · die Größe = size. "Die Größe" is the Akkusativ direct object (feminin die → die), the thing being searched for.
Dat Die Schuhe passen dem Kind nicht.
The shoes don't fit the child.
passen = to fit · der Schuh = shoe · das Kind = child. "Passen" takes the person in the Dativ: "dem Kind" (das → dem). The shoes are the subject; the child is the Dativ object.
stehen — to suit (someone)
Besides "to stand", "stehen" means "to suit / look good on" someone. Key phrase: "Das steht dir gut!" = That looks good on you! The person is always in the Dativ.
Nom Die Bluse steht gut.
The blouse looks good.
stehen = to suit · die Bluse (feminin) = blouse · gut = well. "Die Bluse" is the Nominativ subject; "steht" (er/sie/es form) agrees with it.
Akk Ich probiere den Hut an — er steht mir.
I try on the hat — it suits me.
stehen = to suit · anprobieren = to try on · der Hut = hat. "Den Hut" is the Akkusativ direct object (der → den) of "anprobieren". In the second clause, "er steht mir" uses Dativ "mir".
Dat Das Kleid steht der Frau sehr gut.
The dress suits the woman very well.
stehen = to suit · das Kleid = dress · die Frau = woman. "Stehen" (to suit) takes the person in the Dativ: "der Frau" (die → der). The dress is the subject; the woman is the Dativ object.
tragen (er trägt) — to wear
"Tragen" means both "to wear" and "to carry". It's a strong verb: the vowel changes in the du/er-sie-es forms (du trägst, er trägt). What is worn goes in the Akkusativ.
Nom Die Frau trägt gern Röcke.
The woman likes to wear skirts.
tragen = to wear · die Frau (feminin) = woman · gern = gladly · der Rock = skirt. "Die Frau" is the Nominativ subject; "trägt" shows the vowel change a → ä in the er/sie form.
Akk Er trägt den Anzug.
He wears the suit.
tragen = to wear · der Anzug = suit. "Den Anzug" is the Akkusativ direct object (der → den) — the thing being worn. "trägt" = strong-verb er form.
Dat Bei dem Wetter trage ich einen Mantel.
In this weather I wear a coat.
tragen = to wear · das Wetter = weather · der Mantel = coat. "Dem Wetter" is Dativ (das → dem) after "bei" (always Dativ). "einen Mantel" is Akkusativ (the thing worn).
an·ziehen — to put on (clothes)
A separable verb: the prefix "an" jumps to the end in a main clause: "Ich ziehe die Jacke an." "sich anziehen" = to get dressed. The clothing goes in the Akkusativ.
Nom Das Kind zieht sich allein an.
The child gets dressed on its own.
anziehen = to put on / get dressed · das Kind (neutrum) = child · allein = alone. "Das Kind" is the Nominativ subject. Separable prefix "an" goes to the end; "sich" is reflexive here.
Akk Ich ziehe die Jacke an.
I put on the jacket.
anziehen = to put on · die Jacke = jacket. "Die Jacke" is the Akkusativ direct object (feminin die → die) — the thing put on. Separable "an" goes to the end.
Dat Bei der Kälte ziehe ich mir eine Mütze an.
In the cold I put on a hat.
anziehen = to put on · die Kälte = the cold · die Mütze = cap. "Der Kälte" is Dativ (die → der) after "bei" (always Dativ). "eine Mütze" is Akkusativ (the thing put on).
aus·ziehen — to take off (clothes)
The opposite of "anziehen" — a separable verb with prefix "aus". It also means "to move out" (of a flat). "sich ausziehen" = to undress. Clothing goes in the Akkusativ.
Nom Der Mann zieht sich aus.
The man gets undressed.
ausziehen = to take off / undress · der Mann (maskulin) = man. "Der Mann" is the Nominativ subject. Separable prefix "aus" goes to the end; "sich" is reflexive.
Akk Ich ziehe den Pullover aus.
I take off the pullover.
ausziehen = to take off · der Pullover = pullover. "Den Pullover" is the Akkusativ direct object (der → den) — the thing taken off. Separable "aus" goes to the end.
Dat In der Wohnung ziehe ich die Schuhe aus.
In the flat I take off my shoes.
ausziehen = to take off · die Wohnung = flat/apartment · der Schuh = shoe. "Der Wohnung" is Dativ (die → der) after "in" (location). "die Schuhe" (plural) is Akkusativ (the thing taken off).
an·probieren — to try on
A separable verb: "Ich probiere die Hose an." Essential when shopping. The item you try on goes in the Akkusativ. Ask: "Kann ich das anprobieren?" = Can I try this on?
Nom Die Kundin probiert gern Kleider an.
The customer likes to try on dresses.
anprobieren = to try on · die Kundin (feminin) = customer (female) · das Kleid = dress. "Die Kundin" is the Nominativ subject. Separable prefix "an" goes to the end.
Akk Ich probiere den Anzug an.
I try on the suit.
anprobieren = to try on · der Anzug = suit. "Den Anzug" is the Akkusativ direct object (der → den) — the thing tried on. Separable "an" goes to the end.
Dat In der Umkleide probiere ich die Hose an.
In the changing room I try on the trousers.
anprobieren = to try on · die Umkleide = changing room · die Hose = trousers. "Der Umkleide" is Dativ (die → der) after "in" (location). "die Hose" is Akkusativ (the thing tried on).
um·tauschen — to exchange (goods)
A separable verb for exchanging bought goods (e.g. for a different size). "Ich möchte das umtauschen" = I'd like to exchange this. The item goes in the Akkusativ.
Nom Der Kunde tauscht die Schuhe um.
The customer exchanges the shoes.
umtauschen = to exchange · der Kunde (maskulin) = customer · der Schuh = shoe. "Der Kunde" is the Nominativ subject. Separable prefix "um" goes to the end.
Akk Ich tausche die Hose um.
I exchange the trousers.
umtauschen = to exchange · die Hose = trousers. "Die Hose" is the Akkusativ direct object (feminin die → die) — the thing exchanged. Separable "um" goes to the end.
Dat In dem Kaufhaus kann man alles umtauschen.
You can exchange anything in the department store.
umtauschen = to exchange · das Kaufhaus = department store · alles = everything. "Dem Kaufhaus" is Dativ (das → dem) after "in" (location). With the modal "kann", the full infinitive "umtauschen" stays together at the end.
online bestellen — to order online
"Bestellen" = to order; "online" is used just like in English. Very common today: "Ich bestelle die Kleidung online." The item ordered goes in the Akkusativ.
Nom Meine Schwester bestellt gern online.
My sister likes to order online.
online bestellen = to order online · die Schwester (feminin) = sister · gern = gladly. "Meine Schwester" is the Nominativ subject; "bestellt" agrees with it in the er/sie form.
Akk Ich bestelle den Mantel online.
I order the coat online.
online bestellen = to order online · der Mantel = coat. "Den Mantel" is the Akkusativ direct object (der → den) — the thing ordered.
Dat In dem Shop bestelle ich oft online.
I often order online in this shop.
online bestellen = to order online · der Shop = shop · oft = often. "Dem Shop" is Dativ (der → dem) after "in" (location). The verb "bestelle" is in second position.
die Lieferung, -en — delivery
"Die Lieferung" (feminin) is the delivery of ordered goods, from the verb "liefern" (to deliver). Nouns ending in "-ung" are always feminin — a handy rule!
Nom Die Lieferung ist heute gekommen.
The delivery came today.
die Lieferung (feminin) = delivery · heute = today · kommen = to come. "Die" — feminin Nominativ (all "-ung" nouns are feminin). Lieferung is the subject.
Akk Ich erwarte die Lieferung morgen.
I expect the delivery tomorrow.
die Lieferung (feminin) = delivery · erwarten = to expect · morgen = tomorrow. Feminin stays "die" in Akkusativ. Lieferung is the direct object.
Dat Mit der Lieferung bin ich zufrieden.
I am happy with the delivery.
die Lieferung (feminin) = delivery · zufrieden = satisfied. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit". "mit" always takes Dativ.
zurück·schicken — to send back, return
A separable verb: "schicken" (to send) + "zurück" (back). Common with online-shopping returns: "Ich schicke die Hose zurück." The item goes in the Akkusativ.
Nom Der Kunde schickt die Ware zurück.
The customer sends the goods back.
zurückschicken = to send back · der Kunde (maskulin) = customer · die Ware = goods. "Der Kunde" is the Nominativ subject. Separable prefix "zurück" goes to the end.
Akk Ich schicke das Hemd zurück.
I send the shirt back.
zurückschicken = to send back · das Hemd = shirt. "Das Hemd" is the Akkusativ direct object (neutrum das → das) — the thing sent back. Separable "zurück" goes to the end.
Dat Mit der Post schicke ich die Jacke zurück.
I send the jacket back by post.
zurückschicken = to send back · die Post = post/mail · die Jacke = jacket. "Der Post" is Dativ (die → der) after "mit" (means/instrument, always Dativ). "die Jacke" is the Akkusativ object (the thing sent back).
die Klamotten (Pl.) — clothes (casual)
A casual, colloquial word for clothes — used only in the plural, never "die Klamotte" for one item. More relaxed than "die Kleidung"; young people especially say "Klamotten" for everyday clothes.
Nom Die Klamotten liegen auf dem Bett.
The clothes are lying on the bed.
die Klamotten (Plural) = clothes (casual) · liegen = to lie · das Bett = bed. "Die" — Plural Nominativ. Die Klamotten is the subject (plural verb "liegen").
Akk Ich räume die Klamotten in den Schrank.
I put the clothes away in the closet.
räumen = to put away/tidy · die Klamotten (Plural) = clothes · der Schrank = closet. "Die" stays "die" in Plural Akkusativ (die → die). Die Klamotten is the direct object.
Dat Sie ist mit den Klamotten unzufrieden.
She is unhappy with the clothes.
unzufrieden = unhappy/dissatisfied · mit = with · die Klamotten (Plural) = clothes. "Den" because Plural Dativ (die → den) after "mit"; the noun already ends in -n, so no extra -n is added.
das Sweatshirt, -s — sweatshirt
Another English loanword like "das T-Shirt" — neutrum, plural with "-s": die Sweatshirts. Thicker and warmer than a T-Shirt, but more casual than a Pullover.
Nom Das Sweatshirt ist grau.
The sweatshirt is grey.
das Sweatshirt (neutrum) = sweatshirt · grau = grey. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Sweatshirt is the subject.
Akk Er zieht das Sweatshirt an.
He puts on the sweatshirt.
das Sweatshirt (neutrum) = sweatshirt · anziehen = to put on. Neutrum stays "das" in Akkusativ (das → das). Sweatshirt is the direct object.
Dat Unter dem Sweatshirt trägt sie ein T-Shirt.
She wears a T-shirt under the sweatshirt.
das Sweatshirt (neutrum) = sweatshirt · unter = under · tragen = to wear. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "unter" (location → Dativ).
das Tuch, Tücher — cloth, scarf
"Das Tuch" is a broad word for a piece of fabric — a headscarf, a light scarf, or a cleaning cloth, depending on context. Plural takes an umlaut: die Tücher. Compare "der Schal", which is specifically a knitted winter scarf.
Nom Das Tuch ist aus Seide.
The scarf is made of silk.
das Tuch (neutrum) = cloth/scarf · aus = made of · die Seide = silk. "Das" — neutrum Nominativ. Tuch is the subject.
Akk Sie bindet das Tuch um den Hals.
She ties the scarf around her neck.
binden = to tie · das Tuch (neutrum) = scarf · der Hals = neck. Neutrum stays "das" in Akkusativ. Tuch is the direct object.
Dat Mit dem Tuch sieht sie elegant aus.
She looks elegant with the scarf.
das Tuch (neutrum) = scarf · aussehen = to look · elegant = elegant. "Dem" because neutrum Dativ (das → dem) after "mit". "mit" always takes Dativ.
die Tasche, -n — bag
"Die Tasche" (feminin) means a bag or handbag, but also a pocket (Hosentasche = trouser pocket). Plural: die Taschen. A useful shopping word — "Brauchen Sie eine Tasche?" is common at the till.
Nom Die Tasche ist sehr praktisch.
The bag is very practical.
die Tasche (feminin) = bag · sehr = very · praktisch = practical. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Tasche is the subject.
Akk Ich trage die Tasche über der Schulter.
I carry the bag over my shoulder.
tragen = to carry · die Tasche (feminin) = bag · die Schulter = shoulder. Feminin stays "die" in Akkusativ. Tasche is the direct object.
Dat In der Tasche ist mein Schlüssel.
My key is in the bag.
die Tasche (feminin) = bag · der Schlüssel = key. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "in" (location → Dativ).
die Uhr, -en — watch, clock
"Die Uhr" covers both a wristwatch and a wall clock — context tells you which. It's also how Germans tell time: "Es ist drei Uhr" = It's three o'clock. Plural: die Uhren.
Nom Die Uhr ist kaputt.
The watch is broken.
die Uhr (feminin) = watch/clock · kaputt = broken. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Uhr is the subject.
Akk Er trägt die Uhr jeden Tag.
He wears the watch every day.
tragen = to wear · die Uhr (feminin) = watch · jeden Tag = every day. Feminin stays "die" in Akkusativ. Uhr is the direct object.
Dat Nach der Uhr ist es schon spät.
According to the clock it is already late.
nach = according to (Dativ) · die Uhr (feminin) = clock · schon = already · spät = late. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "nach". "nach" always takes Dativ.
der Buchladen, Buchläden — bookstore
A compound: "Buch" (book) + "Laden" (shop), so the gender follows "der Laden" → maskulin. Plural takes an umlaut like Laden: die Buchläden. A small, independent bookstore rather than a big chain.
Nom Der Buchladen ist um die Ecke.
The bookstore is around the corner.
der Buchladen (maskulin) = bookstore · um die Ecke = around the corner. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ (gender from "der Laden"). Buchladen is the subject.
Akk Ich besuche den Buchladen am Samstag.
I visit the bookstore on Saturday.
besuchen = to visit · der Buchladen (maskulin) = bookstore · der Samstag = Saturday. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Buchladen is the direct object.
Dat In dem Buchladen gibt es viele Zeitschriften.
There are many magazines in the bookstore.
es gibt = there is/are · der Buchladen (maskulin) = bookstore · die Zeitschrift = magazine. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" (location → Dativ). Often shortened to "im".
der Secondhand-Laden, -Läden — thrift store, secondhand shop
A hybrid word: English "Secondhand" + German "der Laden" — the gender and plural follow "der Laden" (die Secondhand-Läden). Popular in Berlin, where buying gebrauchte Kleidung (used clothing) is trendy and sustainable.
Nom Der Secondhand-Laden hat billige Klamotten.
The thrift store has cheap clothes.
der Secondhand-Laden (maskulin) = thrift store · billig = cheap · die Klamotten = clothes. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ (gender from "der Laden"). Secondhand-Laden is the subject.
Akk Wir entdecken den Secondhand-Laden zufällig.
We discover the thrift store by chance.
entdecken = to discover · der Secondhand-Laden (maskulin) = thrift store · zufällig = by chance. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Secondhand-Laden is the direct object.
Dat In dem Secondhand-Laden finde ich einen tollen Mantel.
In the thrift store I find a great coat.
finden = to find · der Secondhand-Laden (maskulin) = thrift store · der Mantel = coat. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" (location → Dativ). Often shortened to "im".
der Shop, -s — shop
A casual English loanword used especially for small or trendy stores and online shops ("Online-Shop"). Plural takes "-s": die Shops. More modern-sounding than "das Geschäft" or "der Laden".
Nom Der Shop ist neu in der Stadt.
The shop is new in the city.
der Shop (maskulin) = shop · neu = new · die Stadt = city. "Der" — maskulin Nominativ. Shop is the subject.
Akk Sie eröffnet den Shop im Sommer.
She opens the shop in the summer.
eröffnen = to open (a business) · der Shop (maskulin) = shop · der Sommer = summer. "Den" because maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Shop is the direct object.
Dat In dem Shop bekommt man originelle Sachen.
You get original/quirky things in the shop.
bekommen = to get · der Shop (maskulin) = shop · originell = quirky/original. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "in" (location → Dativ). Often shortened to "im".
shoppen — to shop
A casual English loan verb: ich shoppe, du shoppst, er shoppt. Used mostly in relaxed speech for a fun shopping trip, unlike the neutral "einkaufen" (to buy groceries/errands).
Nom Meine Freundin shoppt gern samstags.
My friend likes to shop on Saturdays.
shoppen = to shop · die Freundin (feminin) = friend/girlfriend · gern = gladly · samstags = on Saturdays. "Meine Freundin" is the Nominativ subject; "shoppt" agrees in the er/sie form.
Akk Wir shoppen die neue Kollektion.
We shop for the new collection.
shoppen = to shop (for) · die Kollektion (feminin) = collection · neu = new. "Die neue Kollektion" is the Akkusativ direct object (feminin die → die) — what we shop for.
Dat Nach der Arbeit gehen wir shoppen.
After work we go shopping.
nach = after (Dativ) · die Arbeit (feminin) = work · shoppen gehen = to go shopping. "Der Arbeit" is Dativ (die → der) after "nach". "nach" always takes Dativ.
die Kasse, -n — cash register, checkout
"Die Kasse" (feminin) is where you pay — the till in a shop, or the checkout counter. "An der Kasse bezahlen" = to pay at the checkout. Plural: die Kassen.
Nom Die Kasse ist ganz vorne.
The checkout is right at the front.
die Kasse (feminin) = checkout · ganz vorne = right at the front. "Die" — feminin Nominativ. Kasse is the subject.
Akk Ich suche die Kasse im Kaufhaus.
I look for the checkout in the department store.
suchen = to look for · die Kasse (feminin) = checkout · das Kaufhaus = department store. Feminin stays "die" in Akkusativ. Kasse is the direct object.
Dat An der Kasse bezahle ich mit Karte.
At the checkout I pay by card.
an = at · die Kasse (feminin) = checkout · bezahlen = to pay · die Karte = card. "Der" because feminin Dativ (die → der) after "an" (location, no movement → Dativ).
viel zu — way too, far too
A fixed intensifier that strengthens "zu" (too): "Die Hose ist viel zu weit" = The trousers are way too loose. "Viel zu" doesn't decline — it always stays exactly as it is before an adjective.
Nom Die Hose ist viel zu weit.
The trousers are way too loose.
viel zu = way too · die Hose (feminin) = trousers · weit = loose/wide. "Die Hose" is the Nominativ subject (feminin die). "Viel zu" is fixed and never changes form.
Akk Ich finde den Anzug viel zu eng.
I find the suit way too tight.
viel zu = way too · finden = to find/think · der Anzug (maskulin) = suit · eng = tight. "Den Anzug" is the Akkusativ direct object (der → den). "Viel zu" stays fixed before "eng".
Dat Mit dem Schal ist mir viel zu warm.
With the scarf I am way too warm.
viel zu = way too · mit = with · der Schal (maskulin) = scarf · warm = warm. "Dem" because maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit". "Mir" is a Dativ pronoun showing who feels warm.
besser — better
The irregular comparative of "gut" (good): gut → besser → am besten. Very common in opinions about clothes: "Ich finde diese Jacke besser" = I think this jacket is better.
Nom Der Pullover ist besser als das Hemd.
The pullover is better than the shirt.
besser = better · der Pullover (maskulin) = pullover · als = than · das Hemd = shirt. Predicative comparative (after "ist") → NO ending. "Der Pullover" is the subject in Nominativ (maskulin der).
Akk Ich finde den besseren Rock hier.
I find the better skirt here.
besser = better · finden = to find · der Rock (maskulin) = skirt. Attributive before a maskulin Akkusativ noun → ending -en: "besseren" (der → den). Rock is the direct object.
Dat Mit dem besseren Stoff hält die Jacke länger.
With the better fabric the jacket lasts longer.
besser = better · der Stoff = fabric · halten = to last/hold · länger = longer. Attributive in Dativ → ending -en: "besseren". Maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit". "mit" always takes Dativ.
kaputt — broken
A universal, colloquial word for "broken" — used for clothes, toys, machines, even relationships ("Die Beziehung ist kaputt"). Predicative form has no ending.
Nom Der Reißverschluss ist kaputt.
The zipper is broken.
kaputt = broken · der Reißverschluss (maskulin) = zipper. Predicative use (after "ist") → NO ending. "Der Reißverschluss" is the subject in Nominativ (maskulin der).
Akk Ich bringe die kaputte Uhr zum Geschäft zurück.
I bring the broken watch back to the shop.
kaputt = broken · zurückbringen = to bring back · die Uhr = watch · das Geschäft = shop. Attributive before a feminin Akkusativ noun → ending -e: "kaputte". Feminin stays "die" in Akkusativ.
Dat Mit dem kaputten Schuh kann ich nicht laufen.
I can't walk with the broken shoe.
kaputt = broken · laufen = to walk · der Schuh = shoe. Attributive in Dativ → ending -en: "kaputten". Maskulin Dativ (der → dem) after "mit". "mit" always takes Dativ.
doof — dumb, silly
A mild, everyday word for "silly" or "annoying" — much softer than "dumm" or "blöd". Kids and adults both say "Das ist doof!" when something is mildly annoying or uncool.
Nom Das T-Shirt ist ziemlich doof.
The T-shirt is pretty silly-looking.
doof = silly · das T-Shirt (neutrum) = T-shirt · ziemlich = pretty/fairly. Predicative use (after "ist") → NO ending. "Das T-Shirt" is the subject in Nominativ (neutrum das).
Akk Ich finde den doofen Hut nicht schön.
I don't think the silly hat looks nice.
doof = silly · finden = to find/think · der Hut = hat. Attributive → ending -en: "doofen". Maskulin Akkusativ (der → den). Hut is the direct object.
Dat Mit der doofen Krawatte will er nicht ausgehen.
He doesn't want to go out with the silly tie.
doof = silly · ausgehen = to go out · die Krawatte = tie. Attributive in Dativ → ending -en: "doofen". Feminin Dativ (die → der) after "mit". "mit" always takes Dativ.
gefallen, er gefällt, hat gefallen — to please, to like (+ Dativ)
A stem-changing verb (a → ä): ich gefalle, du gefällst, er gefällt. Unlike English "to like", German flips the structure: the thing liked is the subject, and the person is in the Dativ — "Die Jacke gefällt mir" literally means "The jacket pleases me."
Nom Die Jacke gefällt ihm nicht.
He doesn't like the jacket.
gefallen = to please · die Jacke (feminin) = jacket · ihm = to him (Dativ). "Die Jacke" is the Nominativ subject; "gefällt" shows the vowel change a → ä. "Ihm" is the Dativ person who does (not) like it.
Akk Ich probiere den Mantel an, denn er gefällt mir sehr.
I try on the coat, because I like it a lot.
gefallen = to please · anprobieren = to try on · der Mantel = coat. "Den Mantel" is the Akkusativ direct object of "anprobieren" (der → den). In the second clause "er gefällt mir" uses Dativ "mir".
Dat Die Schuhe gefallen dem Kind sehr gut.
The child likes the shoes a lot.
gefallen = to please · der Schuh = shoe · das Kind = child. "Gefallen" always takes the person in Dativ: "dem Kind" (das → dem). "Die Schuhe" (plural) is the subject, so the verb is plural "gefallen" (not "gefällt").
meinen — to mean, to think (opinion)
Regular verb: ich meine, du meinst, er meint. Used to ask or state an opinion: "Was meinst du?" = What do you think? Don't confuse it with "bedeuten" (to mean, of words/signs).
Nom Mein Bruder meint, die Hose ist zu eng.
My brother thinks the trousers are too tight.
meinen = to think/mean · der Bruder (maskulin) = brother · die Hose = trousers · eng = tight. "Mein Bruder" is the Nominativ subject; "meint" agrees in the er/sie form.
Akk Ich meine die rote Bluse, nicht die blaue.
I mean the red blouse, not the blue one.
meinen = to mean · die Bluse (feminin) = blouse · rot = red. "Die rote Bluse" is the Akkusativ direct object (feminin die → die) — the thing being referred to.
Dat Was meinst du zu dem Anzug?
What do you think about the suit?
meinen = to think · was = what · zu = about (Dativ preposition) · der Anzug = suit. "Dem Anzug" is Dativ (der → dem) after "zu". "zu" always takes Dativ.
entdecken — to discover
Regular verb: ich entdecke, du entdeckst, er entdeckt. Often used for finding a great shop or item by chance: "Wo hast du die Jacke entdeckt?" = Where did you discover the jacket?
Nom Meine Schwester entdeckt gern neue Läden.
My sister likes discovering new shops.
entdecken = to discover · die Schwester (feminin) = sister · gern = gladly · der Laden = shop. "Meine Schwester" is the Nominativ subject; "entdeckt" agrees in the er/sie form.
Akk Wo hast du die Jacke entdeckt?
Where did you discover the jacket?
entdecken = to discover · wo = where · die Jacke (feminin) = jacket. Perfekt: "hast ... entdeckt" (haben + Partizip II). "Die Jacke" is the Akkusativ direct object (feminin die → die).
Dat Bei dem Flohmarkt entdecken wir tolle Sachen.
At the flea market we discover great things.
entdecken = to discover · bei = at (Dativ preposition) · der Flohmarkt = flea market · die Sache = thing. "Dem Flohmarkt" is Dativ (der → dem) after "bei". "bei" always takes Dativ.
kriegen — to get, receive (colloquial)
A very common, casual synonym for "bekommen" (to get/receive). Regular verb: ich kriege, du kriegst, er kriegt. Fine in everyday speech, but "bekommen" is safer in formal writing.
Nom Mein Kind kriegt ein neues Sweatshirt.
My child gets a new sweatshirt.
kriegen = to get · das Kind (neutrum) = child · neu = new · das Sweatshirt = sweatshirt. "Mein Kind" is the Nominativ subject; "kriegt" agrees in the er/sie/es form.
Akk Ich kriege den Pullover zum Geburtstag.
I get the pullover for my birthday.
kriegen = to get · der Pullover (maskulin) = pullover · der Geburtstag = birthday. "Den Pullover" is the Akkusativ direct object (der → den) — the thing received.
Dat Von dem Verkäufer kriege ich einen Rabatt.
I get a discount from the salesperson.
kriegen = to get · von = from (Dativ preposition) · der Verkäufer = salesperson · der Rabatt = discount. "Dem Verkäufer" is Dativ (der → dem) after "von". "von" always takes Dativ.
an·kommen, er kommt an, ist angekommen — to arrive
A separable verb: the prefix "an" jumps to the end in a main clause: "Das Paket kommt an." Like most verbs of movement, it forms the Perfekt with "sein", not "haben": ist angekommen.
Nom Das Paket kommt heute an.
The package arrives today.
ankommen = to arrive · das Paket (neutrum) = package · heute = today. "Das Paket" is the Nominativ subject. Separable prefix "an" goes to the end.
Akk Ich warte auf die Lieferung, die morgen ankommt.
I am waiting for the delivery, which arrives tomorrow.
ankommen = to arrive · warten auf = to wait for (+ Akkusativ) · die Lieferung (feminin) = delivery. "Die Lieferung" is the Akkusativ object of "warten auf" (feminin die → die).
Dat Nach der langen Reise ist der Koffer endlich angekommen.
After the long journey, the suitcase has finally arrived.
ankommen = to arrive (Perfekt with "sein": ist angekommen) · nach = after (Dativ) · die Reise (feminin) = journey · lang = long. "Der langen Reise" is Dativ (die → der) after "nach". "Der Koffer" is the subject.
nerven — to annoy
Regular verb: ich nerve, du nervst, er nervt. Often used impersonally: "Das nervt!" = That's annoying! The person annoyed goes in the Akkusativ: "Das nervt mich."
Nom Die enge Hose nervt total.
The tight trousers are really annoying.
nerven = to annoy · die Hose (feminin) = trousers · eng = tight · total = totally. "Die enge Hose" is the Nominativ subject; "nervt" agrees in the er/sie form.
Akk Der kaputte Reißverschluss nervt mich.
The broken zipper annoys me.
nerven = to annoy · der Reißverschluss = zipper · kaputt = broken · mich = me (Akkusativ). "Mich" is the Akkusativ direct object — the person being annoyed.
Dat Mit dem doofen Schal nervt er seine Schwester.
With the silly scarf he annoys his sister.
nerven = to annoy · mit = with · der Schal = scarf · doof = silly · die Schwester = sister. "Dem doofen Schal" is Dativ (der → dem) after "mit" (means/instrument). "Seine Schwester" is the Akkusativ direct object of "nerven".