The best way to learn German verbsGermanMind method
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  • Writer's pictureSarah
    • Feb 22, 2023
    • 4 min read

The best way to learn German verbs

As a beginner learning German, it is essential to start with some basic German verbs.


The best way to learn German verbs
The best way to learn German verbs

Here are 10 IMPORTANT German verbs that you need to know as a beginner:

  1. Sein (to be)

  2. Haben (to have)

  3. Gehen (to go)

  4. Kommen (to come)

  5. Essen (to eat)

  6. Trinken (to drink)

  7. Schlafen (to sleep)

  8. Machen (to make/do)

  9. Spielen (to play)

  10. Sprechen (to speak)

Learning these verbs and their conjugations in the present tense will provide you with a solid foundation for further learning in German. In German, verbs are an essential part of the language, and they play a crucial role in forming sentences. Here are some basic rules to keep in mind when using German verbs:

  1. Conjugation: German verbs change according to the tense and subject. For example, the verb "sprechen" (to speak) will be conjugated differently for "I speak," "you speak," "he/she/it speaks," and so on.

  2. Word order: In German, the position of the verb in a sentence can change depending on the sentence structure. In a basic sentence, the verb usually comes second after the subject. However, in questions or subordinate clauses, the verb can be moved to the beginning of the sentence.

  3. Separable and Inseparable verbs: Some German verbs are separable, meaning that the prefix of the verb separates from the verb itself in certain tenses. For example, "anrufen" (to call) becomes "ich rufe dich an" (I am calling you) in the present tense. In contrast, inseparable verbs do not separate. For example, "verstehen" (to understand) stays together in all tenses.

  4. Modal Verbs: Modal verbs are verbs that express an attitude or possibility, like "can," "should," "must," etc. In German, modal verbs are often used with the infinitive form of another verb. For example, "ich kann schwimmen" means "I can swim."

  5. Verb Prefixes: German verbs often have prefixes added to the root verb, which can change the meaning. For example, "machen" (to make/do) can become "vermachen" (to bequeath), "aufmachen" (to open), or "nachmachen" (to imitate).



These are just a few basic guidelines for using German verbs. As you continue to learn German, you will become more familiar with these rules and gain a better understanding of how to use verbs in context.

Most common mistakes when learning German Learning a new language can be challenging, and German is no exception. Here are some of the most common mistakes that people make when learning German:

  1. Word Order: The word order in German can be confusing, especially for beginners. In German, the verb usually comes second in a sentence, but there are exceptions depending on the sentence structure.

  2. Articles: German has three genders: masculine, feminine, and neuter. Learning the gender of each noun and the corresponding article (der, die, das) can be difficult for learners.

  3. Cases: German has four cases: nominative, accusative, dative, and genitive. Each case has its own rules for how to decline articles and adjectives, and it can take some time to master.

  4. Pronunciation: German has some unique sounds that are not found in English, and mastering the correct pronunciation can be a challenge.

  5. Modal Particles: German has many modal particles (words like "ja," "doch," "mal," etc.) that can change the meaning of a sentence, and learners may struggle to understand when to use them.

  6. Separable Verbs: German has many separable verbs, where the prefix is separated from the verb in certain tenses. This can be confusing for learners, as the meaning of the verb can change depending on whether it is separated or not.


Achtung! False Friends: There are many words in German that look similar to English words but have different meanings. For example, "Bekommen" means "to receive" in German, while "bekommen" in English means "to become."


These are just a few common mistakes that learners make when studying German. By being aware of these challenges and focusing on improving in these areas, learners can improve their proficiency in the language.

best way to memorize German verbs
best way to memorize German verbs

Memorizing German verbs can be challenging, but there are a few methods that can help make it easier:

  1. Repetition: Repetition is key when it comes to memorizing anything, including German verbs. Practice using the verbs in context and repeat them frequently to help commit them to memory.

  2. Flashcards: Create flashcards with the infinitive form of the verb on one side and the conjugated forms on the other. Practice using the flashcards to test your knowledge of the different forms of the verb.

  3. Grouping: Group verbs together by their patterns of conjugation. This can help you see the patterns and make it easier to remember the different forms.

  4. Mnemonics: Create mnemonics or memory aids to help you remember the verbs. For example, you could associate a particular verb with a picture, word, or phrase that helps you remember its meaning.

  5. Use Anki or other language learning apps: Anki is a popular app for language learners that uses spaced repetition to help you memorize vocabulary. Other language learning apps like Duolingo or Babbel can also help you practice verbs and other vocabulary in context.

  6. Use verbs in context: Practice using verbs in real-life situations, such as writing sentences or having conversations. This will help you remember the meaning and context of the verbs.

Remember that memorizing German verbs takes time and practice, so be patient with yourself and keep practicing. By using a combination of these methods and practicing regularly, you can improve your ability to remember and use German verbs with ease.



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