#botchannel

1 messages · Page 20 of 1

slow anvil
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
winged sedge
#

faq wissen vs. Kennen

lean flickerBOT
#
Wissen and kennen

The verbs wissen and kennen both translate to know. However, in most cases they cannot be used interchangeably.

You should use wissen with information or facts, for example:
(1) Ich weiß, dass er Peter heißt. (I know his name is Peter.)
(2) Ich weiß nicht, wie alt er ist. (I don't know how old he is.)
(3) Ich weiß, wo er wohnt. (I know where he lives.)
(4) Ich weiß es. (I know it.)

🌟Note that wissen almost always requires a subordinate clause which starts with either dass, wie, wann, wo, wer, or warum.

The verb kennen is used to express that you are familiar with a person, place or simply a thing, for example:
(5) Ich kenne Maria. (I know Maria.)
(6) Ich kenne diesen Fluss. (I know that river.)
(7) Ich kenne das Buch. (I know the book.)
(8) Ich kenne ihn. (I know him.)

🌟 Note that kennen almost always refers to a noun or pronoun.

‼ As with every rule, there are certain exceptions, in which you can use either, for example:
(9) Ich weiß/kenne den Weg. (I know the way.)
(10) Ich weiß/kenne deinen Namen (I know your name.)

Although they are often used interchangeably in this context, the general rules explained above still apply to them.
The wissen sentence is purely about knowing the way/name, while the kennen sentence also means that you already went that way a few times or have heard that name somewhere before.

winged sedge
#

@upper sage

winged sedge
upper sage
#

faq lang vs lange

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faq lang vs lange

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

upper sage
#

explain all lang vs. lange

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Absentive

Aliases: Absentiv

:small_blue_diamond: Accusative

Aliases: Akkusativ

:small_blue_diamond: Adjective Declension

Aliases: Adjektivdeklination, Adjective endings

:small_blue_diamond: AI in language learning

Aliases: ai, chatgpt

:small_blue_diamond: Anki

Aliases: Flashcards

:small_blue_diamond: Beide vs. Beides

Aliases: Beides vs. Beide, Beides, Beide

:small_blue_diamond: Best way to learn German

Aliases: Fastest way to learn, Learn fast, Most efficient way to learn, Learn efficiently, Best way to learn, Learn German fast

:small_blue_diamond: Can anyone teach me German

Aliases: Private tutors, Teach me, Teach me German, Teach German, Private lessons, Private teachers

:small_blue_diamond: Cases

Aliases: Grammatical case, Case

:small_blue_diamond: CEFR levels

Aliases: CEFR, CERF

:small_blue_diamond: Conjugation

Aliases: Konjugation, Praesens, Verbs, Verb conjugation, Present tense, Präsens

:small_blue_diamond: Contractions

Aliases: Verschmelzung, Schmelzwort, Vom

:small_blue_diamond: DACH

:small_blue_diamond: Dative

Aliases: Dativ

:small_blue_diamond: Doch

icy cargo
#

ai

#

faq ai

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.

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faq Beides vs. Beide

lean flickerBOT
#
Beide vs. Beides

Both Beide and Beides mean both, then how to differentiate them?

🔸 Use beide if the items are of the same kind.
🔸 If the items are different, use beides.
- Ich will beide Äpfel!

- Möchten Sie Ketchup oder Mayo?
- Beides, danke.

🔸 With people you always use beide.

🔸 Article or no article?
An article is used when the people described are doing something together.
- Die beiden sind verlobt. (they are engaged to one another)
- Beide sind verlobt. (they are both engaged, each to their own significant other)

Note: other forms of beid* like beidem or beiden depend on grammatical case, see >explain case.

icy cargo
#

faq Absentive

lean flickerBOT
#
Absentiv
What on earth is absentiv?

Theo ist einkaufen
Absentiv (or absentive in english) is a grammatical aspect (like how konjunktiv ii is also an aspect) in German. It is used quite commonly in spoken / colloquial standard german, and almost never in formal / written german. As the name 'absentive' might suggest, it is used to express someone's absence in combination with an activity that is the reason for their absence. Key parts of this include the implication that the person will eventually return from their absence, and that the action they're partaking is is something that they do regularly. E.g. hobbies, occupations, etc.

The absentiv is not a progressive tense

Unlike the 'am-progress' Theo ist am einkaufen, the absentiv makes no comment on the state of progress or completion of the activity the subject is doing. It only states that they are not in the current location due to the mentioned activity: for all we know Theo might have already finished shopping and currently be on his way home, or he might only just have arrived at the store.

upper sage
#

faq hoch vs. teuer

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

icy cargo
#

faq

lean flickerBOT
#

:x: The required argument name is missing.

icy cargo
#

faq help

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

icy cargo
#

explain all

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Absentive

Aliases: Absentiv

:small_blue_diamond: Accusative

Aliases: Akkusativ

:small_blue_diamond: Adjective Declension

Aliases: Adjektivdeklination, Adjective endings

:small_blue_diamond: AI in language learning

Aliases: ai, chatgpt

:small_blue_diamond: Anki

Aliases: Flashcards

:small_blue_diamond: Beide vs. Beides

Aliases: Beides vs. Beide, Beides, Beide

:small_blue_diamond: Best way to learn German

Aliases: Fastest way to learn, Learn fast, Most efficient way to learn, Learn efficiently, Best way to learn, Learn German fast

:small_blue_diamond: Can anyone teach me German

Aliases: Private tutors, Teach me, Teach me German, Teach German, Private lessons, Private teachers

:small_blue_diamond: Cases

Aliases: Grammatical case, Case

:small_blue_diamond: CEFR levels

Aliases: CEFR, CERF

:small_blue_diamond: Conjugation

Aliases: Konjugation, Praesens, Verbs, Verb conjugation, Present tense, Präsens

:small_blue_diamond: Contractions

Aliases: Verschmelzung, Schmelzwort, Vom

:small_blue_diamond: DACH

:small_blue_diamond: Dative

Aliases: Dativ

:small_blue_diamond: Doch

icy cargo
#

faq Doch

lean flickerBOT
#
Doch

doch for beginners
Germans tend to use the word doch in lots of different situations. But what does it mean, and when do you use it? ⁉

🔆 Using doch to contradict negative statements 🔆
You can use doch to contradict a negative statement/question in the same manner as you would use nein to contradict a positive statement.

(1) Laura hat keinen Fernseher, oder? - Doch, sie hat einen Fernseher!
Laura doesn't have a TV, does she? - Yes, she does!
(2) Du kannst kein Schach spielen! - Doch, das kann ich!
You can't play chess! - Yes, I can!
💡 With doch, correctly answering negative questions (with positive tags) has never been easier. Isn't that awesome? Doch, it is! 😏

🔅 Using doch as an adversative conjunction 🔅
You can also use doch as an adversative conjunction (yet, however, ...).

(3) Du hattest genug Zeit, doch du hast nicht für die Prüfung gelernt.
You had enough time, yet you didn't study for the exam.
(4) Es ist noch nicht Sommer, doch es ist fast genauso heiß.
It is not yet summer, it is, however, almost as hot.
‼ Keep in mind that doch as an adversative conjunction doesn't change the word order. ‼

🔅 Using doch as a subjunctive 🔅
Furthermore, you can use doch in concessive clauses.

(5) Auch wenn wir erwarteten, zu verlieren, so haben wir das Spiel doch gewonnen.
Though we expected to lose, we still won the game.
(6) Obwohl sie sehr nett ist, findet sie doch keine neuen Freunde.
Although she's very kind, she doesn't make new friends.

icy cargo
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faq Dach

lean flickerBOT
#
DACH

The letters D, A and CH are very common abbreviations for the countries Germany (Deutschland, its German name), Austria (Austria, its Latin name) and Switzerland (Confoederatio Helvetica, its Latin name). These abbreviations are found, for example, on licence plates. Germany and Austria also have two-letter abbreviations, which are DE and AT. These, alongside the Swiss one, are used among other things in URLs.

Incidentally, the word Dach is German for “roof”, so the name of the channel #archived-culture-study-visa is a pun: it literally means “living under the roof”, which can be seen as a metaphor for the cultural similarities between these countries.
Despite not included in the abbreviation, DACH may also include other German-speaking countries, especially Liechtenstein.

icy cargo
#

faq CFER

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

icy cargo
#

³>faq CEFR

#

faq CEFR

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

lean flickerBOT
#

:x: There was an error loading your song: Something went wrong when looking up the track Perhaps try again.

lean flickerBOT
#
Eval commands
:small_blue_diamond: **eval** <code>

Evaluate the given code using an external compilation service. Any attempt to abuse this command will lead to a permanent blacklist.
Supported languages are: csharp (cs), java, python (py), c, c++ (cpp), haskell (hs), perl, nasm, javascript (js), lisp, kotlin (kt), brainfuck (bf) and rust (rs).
To use the command, specify a code block with your language of choice and provide any desired input in the same message, after the code block.
Example invocation with input:

`​`​`py
print('Hello,', input())
`​`​`
Barnabus Sandlers```
*Note: write out the command yourself, the example won't work if you copy it, due to Discord's formatting.*
:small_blue_diamond: Language specific notes:
- C# - the namespace and class must be called `Rextester` and `Program` respectively.
- Java - the class must be called `Rextester`
whole turret
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
whole turret
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
brisk schooner
#

faq begginer

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
weak trench
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
cosmic osprey
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
tender trellis
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
latent talon
#

faq prepositions

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. I found the following similar entries: Prepositions of Place Part 1, Dual prepositions, Two-way prepositions, Verb prepositions, Two way prepositions, Verbs with prepositions.

latent talon
#

faq prepositions of place part 1

lean flickerBOT
#
Prepositions of Place Part 1

Generally you use the preposition nach when talking about going to countries, cities or directions, for example:
(1) Ich fahre nach Berlin. (I’m going to Berlin.)
(2) Ich gehe nach Westen. (I’m going west.)
(3) Ich fahre nach Deutschland. (I'm going to Germany.)

‼ Note that nach does not work with countries or regions that take an article. In this case you need to replace it with in, for example: Ich fahre in die Schweiz. (I’m going to Switzerland.)
In addition to that you will need to use auf for specific islands, for example: Ich fliege auf die Balearen. (I fly to the Balearic Islands.)
Here you can find a map with countries that take an article: http://i.imgur.com/QRFA2WI.png

🌟 nach is also idiomatically used in nach Hause gehen (to go home)

The preposition zu is used when talking about going to people, or places with a proper name, for example:
(4) Ich gehe zu ihm. (I go to him.)
(5) Ich gehe zum [zu dem] Arzt. (I go to the doctor.)
(6) Ich gehe zu Aldi. (I go to Aldi.)

You use in if you will end up inside a place or location, for example:
(7) Ich gehe in die Kirche. (I go to church.)
(8) Ich gehe ins [in das] Kino. (I go to the cinema.)

You use auf if you will end up on something, or for going to formal events, for example:
(9) Ich klettere auf den Berg. (I climb up the mountain.)
(10) Ich gehe auf die Toilette. (I go to the toilet.)
(11) Ich gehe auf eine Party. (I go to a party.)

🌟 When in doubt, use zu, since you can often replace in and auf with zu, for example:
(12) Ich gehe zur Kirche. (I go to the church.) [but not necessarily inside]
(13) Ich gehe zu einer Party. (I go to a party.)

‼ However, note that you cannot replace zu with in if it would be absurd to speak of going inside:
(14) Ich fahre in die Kirche. (I drive into the church.)

upper sage
#

faq klar

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

upper sage
#

faq alles klar

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

stoic bramble
#

help

lean flickerBOT
#
Help commands
:small_blue_diamond: **help** [term]

Displays help information for modules and individual commands. The optional argument term is the search term to use. If no value is provided, the bot will display a list of all available modules. Otherwise, it will attempt to find information about the given term.

stoic bramble
#

help

lean flickerBOT
#
Eval commands
:small_blue_diamond: **eval** <code>

Evaluate the given code using an external compilation service. Any attempt to abuse this command will lead to a permanent blacklist.
Supported languages are: csharp (cs), java, python (py), c, c++ (cpp), haskell (hs), perl, nasm, javascript (js), lisp, kotlin (kt), brainfuck (bf) and rust (rs).
To use the command, specify a code block with your language of choice and provide any desired input in the same message, after the code block.
Example invocation with input:

`​`​`py
print('Hello,', input())
`​`​`
Barnabus Sandlers```
*Note: write out the command yourself, the example won't work if you copy it, due to Discord's formatting.*
:small_blue_diamond: Language specific notes:
- C# - the namespace and class must be called `Rextester` and `Program` respectively.
- Java - the class must be called `Rextester`
stiff tree
#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

hot oracle
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
blissful veldt
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
blissful veldt
#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

quick raptor
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
tender trellis
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
tender trellis
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faq all

lean flickerBOT
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See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Impersonal Verbs

Aliases: Unpersönliche Verben, Impersonal es

:small_blue_diamond: IPA

Aliases: Pronunciation, Sound transcription, International Phonetic Alphabet

:small_blue_diamond: Languages in <#221708975698083841>

Aliases: English in #general, Why English, Why is everyone speaking English in #general?

:small_blue_diamond: Lessons

Aliases: Sessions, Activities

:small_blue_diamond: Looking for information

Aliases: correct channel, information, right place to ask, right channel

:small_blue_diamond: Negation

Aliases: Nicht, Kein

:small_blue_diamond: Nicos

Aliases: Nicos Weg

:small_blue_diamond: Nominative

Aliases: Nominativ

:small_blue_diamond: Omission of movement verbs

:small_blue_diamond: Other languages

Aliases: languages

:small_blue_diamond: Passive

Aliases: Passiv

:small_blue_diamond: Past Tense

Aliases: perfekt, präteritum, praeteritum, present perfect, simple past

:small_blue_diamond: Prepositions of Place Part 1

Aliases: Nach-In-Auf-Zu

:small_blue_diamond: Resources

Aliases: Resource list

:small_blue_diamond: Roles

tender trellis
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faq IPA

lean flickerBOT
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IPA

The International Phonetic Alphabet is a system for writing sounds regardless of the language: one sound will have only one letter for it, so it's really helpful for learning pronunciation in any language without relying on approximations.

IPA has a lot of symbols, but you don't need to learn them all.

🔸 What are those // and [] I see around?
Symbols in slashes (like /r/) represent so-called phonemes, units of sound. Each phoneme can be pronounced in different ways depending on where it is in the word. For example, the phoneme /r/ is pronounced [ʁ] in most situations, but [ɐ] after vowels. As you can see, square brackets (like [ʁ]) represent actual sounds. Finally, pointy brackets like ⟨r⟩ represent how a sound is written, which can vary from language to language.
Example: ⟨sprechen⟩ /sprεçən/ [ʃpʁε.çn̩]

🔸 So how to learn it?
All you need to learn is the few symbols used by the language you're interested in. For German, you can look up the relevant letters on Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:IPA/Standard_German. Notice the Help:IPA/Language_Name pattern in the URL.
There, you will find a table of symbols with an approximation, but you can also click on each specific symbol to learn exactly how to pronounce it studying the Features section, for example: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voiceless_palatal_fricative#Features

🔸 Which IPA letters are important for German?
Sounds you are likely to have trouble with are ⟨x⟩, ⟨ç⟩, ⟨ʁ⟩, ⟨ɐ⟩ and several vowels. These are all described in the Wiki link above.
You can use this website to transcribe German words if your dictionary doesn't give an IPA transcription:
http://tom.brondsted.dk/text2phoneme/

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faq all

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Seeing verbs

Aliases: Sehen, Schauen

:small_blue_diamond: So and also

:small_blue_diamond: Stative Passive

Aliases: Zustandspassiv, Statal passive

:small_blue_diamond: Structure of Konjunktiv II

Aliases: KII 2

:small_blue_diamond: Study Vocabulary

Aliases: Unterrichten, Studieren, Lernen, Beibringen

:small_blue_diamond: Swiss German

Aliases: gsw

:small_blue_diamond: Switzerland

Aliases: Schweiz, CH

:small_blue_diamond: Two-way prepositions

Aliases: Two way prepositions, Dual prepositions

:small_blue_diamond: Umlauts

Aliases: Umlaute, Umlaut, ä, ö, ü

:small_blue_diamond: Usage of Freund and Freundin

Aliases: Freundin, Friend, Friend vs. Boyfriend, Friend vs. Girlfriend, Boyfriend, Girlfriend, Freund

:small_blue_diamond: Usage of Konjunktiv II

Aliases: KII 1

:small_blue_diamond: Usage of zu

Aliases: Um zu

:small_blue_diamond: Verbs with prepositions

Aliases: Verb prepositions, Pferd's verb list

:small_blue_diamond: Vorgangspassiv

:small_blue_diamond: Weak Nouns

Aliases: N-Declension, N-Deklination, Weak noun

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faq weak nouns

lean flickerBOT
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Weak Nouns

Weak nouns are called this way because they receive the same endings as adjectives inflected with weak endings. They take an additional ending -n in every case except nominative singular. This is also known as N-Declension and affects almost exclusively masculine nouns.

Nominativ: der Junge, die Junge__n__
Genitiv: des Junge__n__, der Junge__n__
Dativ: dem Junge__n__, den Junge__n__
Akkusativ: den Junge__n__, die Junge__n__

Some nouns end with a suffix -en to make the pronunciation easier:
der Mensch, den Mensch__en__

Das Herz is the only non-masculine (neuter) noun with N-Declension❣

So how do we recognize these nouns? We can divide them into 3 big groups:

  1. nouns of Greek and Latin origin,
  2. nouns ending with -e (most of these refer to people or animals),
  3. other random German nouns (Mensch, Herr, Student, Nachbar, Prinz etc.)

Another way to divide the groups could be:

  1. nouns denoting male beings in general (der Bauer, der Knabe, der Herr, der Junge, der Kunde etc.)
  2. nouns indicating nationality or religious affiliation (der Chinese, der Russe, der Türke, der Jude, der Katholik, der Protestant)
  3. nouns designating male beings and ending in the foreign suffixes (-ant, -arch, -ast, -ege, -ent, -ist, -oge, -om, -oph, -ot: der Kollege, der Student, der Psychologe, der Polizist, der Philosoph)

der Käse and words ending with -ee aren’t weak nouns.

Genitive of Weak Nouns
You might have noticed from the examples above that weak nouns don’t have the additional -s in genitive like other masculine nouns.
Some exceptions are das Herz and nouns of group 3 that don’t refer to people nor animals (Name, Wille, Glaube, Buchstabe etc.), which take both the -n and -s endings.
Example: der Name, des Name__ns__.

tender trellis
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faq correct channel

lean flickerBOT
#
Looking for information

It's not recommended to look for information or ask questions in #general as the pace of the channel is quite fast and your question might be missed, or there could simply be no one around to answer it.
Here are some common channels you might be looking for:
🔹 #942470380692590632 and #questions for asking questions related to the German language.
🔹 #writing for getting corrections for your text. Refer to #writing-info to find out how the channel works.
🔹 #1033125270217048246 for questions regarding life, culture and study in German-speaking countries.
🔹 #1065443550004781067 if you are looking for a study group, or are interested in creating or joining a study club.
🔹 https://bit.ly/gladresources/ for our curated list of user-suggested resources.

Check out #getting-started and #info to find out more about what the server has to offer!

tender trellis
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faq KII 2

lean flickerBOT
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Structure of Konjunktiv II

Structure of Konjunktiv II
In the first part, we explained the usage of Konjunktiv II. (see >explain Usage of Konjunktiv II)
Now let’s see how it’s built!
We can create KII through Präteritum - slap an Umlaut on the verb and add the suffixes of Konjunktiv I (or basically suffixes of Präteritum without the -t-).
(5) Ich äße gern mehr, aber ich bin schon satt. = “I would love to eat more but I’m already full.”
(6) Wäre ich nicht arm, ginge ich ab und zu außer Haus essen = “If I wasn’t poor, I would eat out now and then.”
(7) Ich probierte diese Speisen gern, wenn sie nicht ein Vermögen kosten. = “I’d love to try these dishes if they didn’t cost a fortune.”

⁉️ Wait, what?! Isn’t the verb in example (7) in Präteritum?!
Well, yeah, building KII through Präteritum works well with strong verbs, but it doesn’t show in weak verbs because the forms are the same in both Konjunktiv II and Präteritum.

So how do we distinguish between these two?
For weak verb, the würden-structure is used. Würden (= werden in KII) acts as an auxiliary verb with infinitive. The meaning doesn’t change, it’s just clearer what we want to say.
So if we rewrite (7):
(8) Ich würde diese Speisen gern probieren, wenn sie nicht ein Vermögen kosten.
As you can see, würden stays at the second position and the infinitive goes to the end of a clause.

tender trellis
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
tender trellis
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
tender trellis
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faq cepr

lean flickerBOT
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FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

tender trellis
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faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
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CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

quiet kernel
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purpose

lean flickerBOT
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:x: The required argument input is missing.

quiet kernel
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purpose Activity Permission

lean flickerBOT
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:x: 'Activity Permission' is not a channel or a role.

quiet kernel
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purpose activity permissions

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Information about Activity Permissions
Activity Permissions

No information is currently available.

wary birch
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purpose activity permissions

lean flickerBOT
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Information about Activity Permissions
Activity Permissions

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tender trellis
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
tender trellis
#

Hello Herr Bottfried W Lebibniz, could you please show me the >faq resources ?

#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
patent moss
#

sessions

lean flickerBOT
#

There are no sessions currently scheduled.

ornate cradle
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faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

jagged jolt
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faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
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How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
onyx socket
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faq Passive sentences

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. I found the following similar entry: Passive (1)
Select one of the values in the brackets to directly open the suggested FAQ.

onyx socket
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faq Passive

lean flickerBOT
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Passive Voice

In English and German, a verb can have one of two voices which describe the relationship between the verb and the subject. These voices are the active voice and passive voice.

Typically, we use the active voice, where the subject is the doer or agent of the action. For example:

The man eats the apple.

In this sentence, the agent (the man) is acting upon (by eating) the object (the apple).

In the passive voice, the subject is the receiver or patient of the action. This typically places the emphasis on the patient or action, and the agent can be left out altogether if it is unknown or irrelevant. For example, the above sentence converted into the passive voice becomes:

The apple is being eaten.

In this example, the patient (the apple) is being acted upon (by being eaten) by an unknown agent.

Vorgangspassiv and Zustandspassiv

German offers two passive forms: the Vorgangspassiv and the Zustandspassiv. The Vorgangspassiv refers to the process of an action, while the Zustandspassiv refers to the state of an action. The Vorgangspassiv is more often used and relates closely to the active voice. See >explain Vorgangspassiv for an explanation of the Vorgangspassiv, and see >explain Stative Passive for an explanation of Zustandspassiv.

See Also

https://bit.ly/2Nqu84t (dartmouth university)
https://bit.ly/3sSXs9A (leo.org)
https://bit.ly/2RyEodX (Passive Voice on Pferd's blog)

rain rover
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faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
tidal lark
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sessions

lean flickerBOT
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There are no sessions currently scheduled.

tidal lark
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help

lean flickerBOT
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Stargazing commands
:small_blue_diamond: **📒 star**

Provides stargazing functionality for the server. The stargazing system highlights memorable moments from the server. The starboard can be configured dynamically, temporarily locked and posts from it can be displayed.

scenic tapir
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faq beginneR

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
willow storm
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f beginner

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faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
sturdy lagoon
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faq begginer

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. I found the following similar entry: Beginner (1)
Select one of the values in the brackets to directly open the suggested FAQ.

sturdy lagoon
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faq Beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
hot panther
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faq duo

lean flickerBOT
#
Duolingo

Duolingo is a decent resource to start with if you're a complete beginner, but it's neither efficient nor comprehensive!

What Duolingo will teach you about grammar is very limited, and none of the systems they use will help you practise much of it.
You can learn some vocabulary with it, but their method (based on the concept of spaced repetition) doesn't work for everybody, and the way Duolingo teaches is not very effective compared to the amount of time it requires from you.

So, if you find it useful, by all means keep using it, but remember not to fall for its gamification of language learning, and move past it when it stops being beneficial. Ignore the streaks.

In any case, keep in mind that Duolingo is not enough to learn a language, ever.

If you're looking for guidance or alternatives, check out >faq beginner in our #botchannel .

hot panther
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
hot panther
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
winged sedge
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#test#

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#test

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\test\

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test

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test

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test

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test

tidal sierra
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faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
strong skiff
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
strong skiff
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
rare fog
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
worthy pulsar
#

faq anki

lean flickerBOT
#
Flashcard Tips

When creating flashcards it is not enough to just have a single german word on one side, and a single word translation on the other side of the card. You want to provide details that match your learning style and help you better understand what the word means.

For nouns

At the very least, include the gender and the plural form. E.g. Der Mann | Die Männer or Der Mann -:er Whichever form helps you recognise the plural ending and any vowel changes. You may also want to add a note for weak masculine nouns. (See >explain N-Declension.)

For verbs

Include the infinitive, the preterite (simple past) and the past participle (perfect form). E.g. rennen | rannte | gerannt or for a separable verb anrufen | rief an | angerufen. For irregular verbs, you may want to list all present tense conjugations. You may also want to include if the verb uses haben or sein as its auxiliary.

For all words

Adding an example sentence is important for helping you understand the usage and context of a word (dwds.de and linguee.com are good sources of example sentences). You may also want to add multiple translations for words that have multiple meanings. E.g. Die Auflage can mean both a requirement, and the edition of a book. You may also want to try picture cues or audio recordings (possible sources for voice recordings include dict.cc, linguee.com, duden.de, and wiktionary.de).

Close Passages

Flashcards based on close passages can be a very effective way to learn new vocabulary. E.g. put Ich kaufe Lebensmittel im [blank] ein. on one side of the flashcard, and Ich kaufe Lebensmittel im *Markt* ein; der Markt, die Märkte - market. This places vocabulary in context to help you understand its meaning and usages, and also provides you with whole phrases that help jolt your memory when trying to remember an individual word.

Recall vs. Reproduction

Flashcards are most effective when they train your ability to reproduce knowledge. I.e. Seeing the word Baum and recognising it as tree is a lot less effective than being able to look at a picture of a tree and know it means der Baum. Taking that a step further you want to be able to also know that that while die Struktur also means 'tree', it doesn't actually mean the plant. When creating flashcards, try to design them with these concepts in mind. E.g. Using minimal or no flashcards that show you a german word and ask you to recall what it means in english, and instead focus on the other way around: giving you an english word and asking you to recall what it means in german.

Other Flashcard Apps

Other commonly used flashcard apps you may want to check out include:

turbid citrus
#

faq best way to learn

lean flickerBOT
#
Best way to learn German

There isn’t only one “best” way to learn German, especially since different methods work better for different people. However, this FAQ will outline the main aspects of learning efficiently, which you can cater to your needs.

If you’re a beginner, type >faq beginner in #botchannel to see our beginner guide.

Cover all skills

There are many combinations of activities you can use to study and practice a language. How do you know which combinations are suitable? The key is to make sure you cover each of the main skills with at least one activity. Some activities only train one skills, while some train multiple – either is fine, as long as all the 6 skills are covered somewhere in your studies.

The skills

• Reading
• Writing
• Listening
• Speaking
• Grammar
• Vocabulary

Which resources should I use?

It doesn’t really matter which resources you use, as long as you can follow along, and the information is correct and reliable. If you have any doubts about whether a resource is correct, feel free to ask. You do not need to find just one resource and stick to it – in fact, to learn best, it’s recommended that you use a large variety of resources and switch between them when needed.

Type >faq resources in #botchannel to see our list of resources.

On the next page

• Should I study all these skills every day?
• How much time should I dedicate to studying?

noble brook
#

explain all

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Absentive

Aliases: Absentiv

:small_blue_diamond: Accusative

Aliases: Akkusativ

:small_blue_diamond: Adjective Declension

Aliases: Adjektivdeklination, Adjective endings

:small_blue_diamond: AI in language learning

Aliases: ai, chatgpt

:small_blue_diamond: Anki

Aliases: Flashcards

:small_blue_diamond: Beide vs. Beides

Aliases: Beides vs. Beide, Beides, Beide

:small_blue_diamond: Best way to learn German

Aliases: Fastest way to learn, Learn fast, Most efficient way to learn, Learn efficiently, Best way to learn, Learn German fast

:small_blue_diamond: Can anyone teach me German

Aliases: Private tutors, Teach me, Teach me German, Teach German, Private lessons, Private teachers

:small_blue_diamond: Cases

Aliases: Grammatical case, Case

:small_blue_diamond: CEFR levels

Aliases: CEFR, CERF

:small_blue_diamond: Conjugation

Aliases: Konjugation, Praesens, Verbs, Verb conjugation, Present tense, Präsens

:small_blue_diamond: Contractions

Aliases: Verschmelzung, Schmelzwort, Vom

:small_blue_diamond: DACH

:small_blue_diamond: Dative

Aliases: Dativ

:small_blue_diamond: Doch

noble brook
#

faq konjugation

lean flickerBOT
#
Conjugation

Präsens (Present Tense)
When you use a verb in a sentence (or clause), you have to conjugate it (change the form) to match the subject of the sentence (or clause).

For example, in English, we write I eat but he/she eats. The verb has a different ending! The concept is the same in German, except German has more endings.

The first thing you need to know in order to conjugate verbs is: which ending fits which subject? Here is a simple verb “trinken” (to drink) as an example:

trinken
ich trinke
du trinkst
er/sie/es trinkt
wir trinken
ihr trinkt
sie trinken / Sie trinken
(Note: the conjugation for sie (they) and Sie (formal you) is always the same)

Vowel/Stem Changes
There are a few variations and exceptions, but the most important is vowel changes (also called stem changes). Some verbs get a vowel change, which only affects the du and er/sie/es forms of the verb. (However, modal verbs and wissen have their own special pattern, which also has a vowel change in the ich form.)

Example: ich schlafe, du schläfst

Other Changes
There are various other differences but I can’t describe them all here, so please read these websites or use Google to find more information: https://www.vistawide.com/german/grammar/german_verbs_present_tense.htm
https://www.thoughtco.com/german-present-tense-verbs-4074838
http://www.dartmouth.edu/~deutsch/Grammatik/PresentTense/Present.html

noble brook
#

faq Teach German

lean flickerBOT
#
Can anyone teach me German?

There are no private lessons or 1-on-1 tutoring offered here as this server is a community effort and everyone is a volunteer.

Are there still some kind of lessons here?

Yes! Our lovely volunteer hosts organise lessons from time to time. To find out more, check out #lesson-info.

How else can I use this server to learn German?

For more information about how the server works and how it can help you learn German, check out #info and #getting-started.

arctic harness
#

faq

lean flickerBOT
#

:x: The required argument name is missing.

arctic harness
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
tender trellis
#

faq begginer

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

frank moss
#

explain all

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Absentive

Aliases: Absentiv

:small_blue_diamond: Accusative

Aliases: Akkusativ

:small_blue_diamond: Adjective Declension

Aliases: Adjektivdeklination, Adjective endings

:small_blue_diamond: AI in language learning

Aliases: ai, chatgpt

:small_blue_diamond: Anki

Aliases: Flashcards

:small_blue_diamond: Beide vs. Beides

Aliases: Beides vs. Beide, Beides, Beide

:small_blue_diamond: Best way to learn German

Aliases: Fastest way to learn, Learn fast, Most efficient way to learn, Learn efficiently, Best way to learn, Learn German fast

:small_blue_diamond: Can anyone teach me German

Aliases: Private tutors, Teach me, Teach me German, Teach German, Private lessons, Private teachers

:small_blue_diamond: Cases

Aliases: Grammatical case, Case

:small_blue_diamond: CEFR levels

Aliases: CEFR, CERF

:small_blue_diamond: Conjugation

Aliases: Konjugation, Praesens, Verbs, Verb conjugation, Present tense, Präsens

:small_blue_diamond: Contractions

Aliases: Verschmelzung, Schmelzwort, Vom

:small_blue_diamond: DACH

:small_blue_diamond: Dative

Aliases: Dativ

:small_blue_diamond: Doch

bronze notch
#

help

lean flickerBOT
#
Voice commands
:small_blue_diamond: **nowplaying**

Displays the currently playing song and its remaining duration.

:small_blue_diamond: **play** <prompt>

Queues a song to be played by the music bot. This command will only work if you are connected to a voice channel that has at least two members.
The given prompt can be either a YouTube link or a query that will be used to search YouTube and fetch the first result.
Please note that playing any sort of nationalistic, war-related songs, songs that violate our rules or abusing the feature in any way will get you blacklisted.

:small_blue_diamond: **queue**

Displays the songs that are in the song queue.

:small_blue_diamond: **skip**

Votes to skip the currently playing song.
For a skip vote to pass, more than a half of the members in the currently playing voice chat (rounded up) must vote for the skip.

:small_blue_diamond: **upcoming**

Displays the upcoming song and its remaining duration.

#

:x: The required argument prompt is missing.

potent brook
#

faq best way to learn

lean flickerBOT
#
Best way to learn German

There isn’t only one “best” way to learn German, especially since different methods work better for different people. However, this FAQ will outline the main aspects of learning efficiently, which you can cater to your needs.

If you’re a beginner, type >faq beginner in #botchannel to see our beginner guide.

Cover all skills

There are many combinations of activities you can use to study and practice a language. How do you know which combinations are suitable? The key is to make sure you cover each of the main skills with at least one activity. Some activities only train one skills, while some train multiple – either is fine, as long as all the 6 skills are covered somewhere in your studies.

The skills

• Reading
• Writing
• Listening
• Speaking
• Grammar
• Vocabulary

Which resources should I use?

It doesn’t really matter which resources you use, as long as you can follow along, and the information is correct and reliable. If you have any doubts about whether a resource is correct, feel free to ask. You do not need to find just one resource and stick to it – in fact, to learn best, it’s recommended that you use a large variety of resources and switch between them when needed.

Type >faq resources in #botchannel to see our list of resources.

On the next page

• Should I study all these skills every day?
• How much time should I dedicate to studying?

#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

noble kestrel
#

faq anki

lean flickerBOT
#
Flashcard Tips

When creating flashcards it is not enough to just have a single german word on one side, and a single word translation on the other side of the card. You want to provide details that match your learning style and help you better understand what the word means.

For nouns

At the very least, include the gender and the plural form. E.g. Der Mann | Die Männer or Der Mann -:er Whichever form helps you recognise the plural ending and any vowel changes. You may also want to add a note for weak masculine nouns. (See >explain N-Declension.)

For verbs

Include the infinitive, the preterite (simple past) and the past participle (perfect form). E.g. rennen | rannte | gerannt or for a separable verb anrufen | rief an | angerufen. For irregular verbs, you may want to list all present tense conjugations. You may also want to include if the verb uses haben or sein as its auxiliary.

For all words

Adding an example sentence is important for helping you understand the usage and context of a word (dwds.de and linguee.com are good sources of example sentences). You may also want to add multiple translations for words that have multiple meanings. E.g. Die Auflage can mean both a requirement, and the edition of a book. You may also want to try picture cues or audio recordings (possible sources for voice recordings include dict.cc, linguee.com, duden.de, and wiktionary.de).

Close Passages

Flashcards based on close passages can be a very effective way to learn new vocabulary. E.g. put Ich kaufe Lebensmittel im [blank] ein. on one side of the flashcard, and Ich kaufe Lebensmittel im *Markt* ein; der Markt, die Märkte - market. This places vocabulary in context to help you understand its meaning and usages, and also provides you with whole phrases that help jolt your memory when trying to remember an individual word.

Recall vs. Reproduction

Flashcards are most effective when they train your ability to reproduce knowledge. I.e. Seeing the word Baum and recognising it as tree is a lot less effective than being able to look at a picture of a tree and know it means der Baum. Taking that a step further you want to be able to also know that that while die Struktur also means 'tree', it doesn't actually mean the plant. When creating flashcards, try to design them with these concepts in mind. E.g. Using minimal or no flashcards that show you a german word and ask you to recall what it means in english, and instead focus on the other way around: giving you an english word and asking you to recall what it means in german.

Other Flashcard Apps

Other commonly used flashcard apps you may want to check out include:

tender trellis
#

faq umlauts

lean flickerBOT
#
Umlauts

Umlauts - ä, ö, ü
Along with the 26 letters of its alphabet, German also possesses the umlaut, a diacritic in the form of two dots placed over the letters a, o, u to form ä, ö, and ü. Umlautmeans something akin to altered soundand this is reflected in the fact that the pronunciation of the umlauted vowels are quite different from the non-umlauted vowels.

🗨️ How do I type ä, ö, ü?
See >faq keyboard on how to type umlauts.

If you cannot type the umlauts, you can add an e to the non-diacritic vowel to represent an umlaut. For example, you can represent öffnenas oeffnen.

Umlauts can never be replaced with their non-diacritic versions. In other words, you cannot replace ö with o when spelling words like öffnen. Some words only differ by the vowel sound, for example schwul(gay) and schwül(humid, sultry).

🗨️ How do I pronunce ä, ö, ü?
See the next few pages for more info on pronunciation.

tender trellis
#

faq keyboard

lean flickerBOT
#
More alternatives

🔸 Alternatively, you can memorise the altcodes for German characters. Learning them is easier than you might think! Simply hold Alt and type the numbers on your numpad:
ä = 132; Ä = 142
ö = 148; Ö = 153
ü = 129; Ü = 154
ß = 225
🔸 If all else fails, you can use ASCII conventions for the characters: add an e to other vowels, and write ss or sz for ß. For example:
ae = ä
oe = ö
ue = ü
ss = ß
But this is discouraged since it's harder to read and... looks ugly. It is only done in situations where alternatives are impossible (fonts with no unicode etc).

tender trellis
#

faq eszett

lean flickerBOT
#
Eszett

The ß, called Eszett or scharfes S, is a letter of the Standard German alphabet.

🗨 How to type it?
If you're on a US keyboard, you can use the US International layout and type ß with [right alt] + s. There is also an altcode (press [alt], type the numbers and release [alt]):
ß = alt+225

🗨 What about capital ẞ?
Capital ẞ is only used in typography and all caps words (and not even always). It never occurs as the first letter of a word, so you will never really need to be able to write it. ;)

🗨 How to read it?
It is always read as an unvoiced [s], like in the English word ma__ss__.

🗨 When to ß and when to ss?
The pronunciation is the same, but they're used in different positions.
is used after long vowels, which are vowels pronounced for slightly longer than otherwise (Fuß, Straße); compare the English m__i__nd and m__i__tten: same letter, different length, thus different pronunciation.
ẞ is also used after diphthongs, which are groups of vowels pronounced together (gießen, Preußen).
ss is used after short vowels (Schloss, Abfluss). This also occurs for ck vs k and similar: double consonant means short (even in English, see mitten above!)
ss is also found after diphthongs and long vowels if the two Ses belong to separate parts; this can happen in prefixes (aussteigen) and compound words (Moossee).

🗨 I've seen something that doesn't follow these rules!
Not to worry! The above rules apply for Standard German and you can follow them religiously. If you find exceptions, these are the possible reasons:

  • The writer or text follows old rules, where all instances of ss in the same word became ß regardless of the vowel.
  • The writer or text comes from Switzerland, where ß is seldom used, if at all.
olive yew
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
amber marlin
#

faq ai

lean flickerBOT
#
**AI-generated text**

This FAQ explains rules and advice for using text AI tools such as ChatGPT.

🔹 **Server rules regarding this topic:**
  • Do not answer any questions by using AI-generated text.
  • Do not ask for AI-generated text to be corrected.
🔹 **Problems with using AI for answers and corrections**
  • No fact-checking: Tools like ChatGPT are very good at writing texts and often provide answers that sound good, but they are not capable of fact-checking their own answers.

  • Fake information: It’s very common for these programs to make up fake or incomplete information, which is explained convincingly but is mostly wrong.

  • Non-deterministic: The information is also partially randomly generated, meaning that if you ask the same question multiple times, you will usually end up with different answers.

  • No language knowledge: It shouldn't be used for grammar or vocabulary questions, as it doesn't understand linguistics, nuance, or how a native speaker might actually use a given word or grammar point.

  • Missing context: When correcting texts it needs to understand what the writer was trying to express. As such it may miss mistakes or correct things that don't need to be corrected.

🔹 **Reasons NOT to use generative AI for learning**
  • It delays the development of important skills in language learning.
    Relying too much on AI generated texts or solutions may get in the way of learning the necessary skills of language acquisition, such as how to look up words or phrases in a dictionary, using critical thinking, or actually applying learned concepts.

  • AI is not designed to guide learners.
    If you ask an AI a question, it will provide you with information, whereas if you ask a human, they will ideally ask you to show your understanding and offer advice on how to find the answer.

  • AI output requires scrutiny
    AI output must be verified, but beginners to German or to language learning often lack the knowledge or experience to do so.

🔹 **Good uses of AI-generated text**
  • Ask ChatGPT to come up with some story ideas that you can write about.
amber marlin
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
tender trellis
#

faq vc

lean flickerBOT
rose violet
#

explain all

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Weil, denn, da

:small_blue_diamond: What does GLaD mean

Aliases: GLaD

:small_blue_diamond: What does this word mean

Aliases: Duden, Meaning, Dict, Dictionary, Definition

:small_blue_diamond: Wissen and kennen

Aliases: Kennen vs. wissen, Wissen vs. kennen

:small_blue_diamond: Word Order for Nouns & Pronouns

:small_blue_diamond: Word Order for Verbs

Aliases: Word order verbs, Word order of verbs

rose violet
#

faq Word Order for Verbs

lean flickerBOT
#
Word Order for Verbs

Word Order - Verbs

The placement of the finite verb (or conjugated verb) is very important to the structure of a German sentence. While most other elements in a sentence can be moved, the position of the finite verb is fixed.

🔸 Main clause
A main clause is an independent clause that makes sense by itself. Here the finite verb is always the second element.

Der Mann gibt der Frau das Buch.

An auxiliary/modal verb (e.g. müssen) replaces the original verb (called the main verb) as the finite verb and results in the main verb being placed at the end of the clause. Additionally, the main verb is returned to its infinitive or past participle form, depending on the tense.

Der Mann muss der Frau das Buch geben.

🔸 Questions & Statements
The finite verb is always the first element.

Siehst du den Ausgang?

Interrogative words (or w-words) are considered to be in the zeroth position.

Worauf wartet ihr?

Auxiliary/modal verbs have the same effect as before:

Kannst du den Ausgang sehen?
Worauf habt ihr gewartet?

🔸 Subordinate clause
A subordinate clause depends on a main clause to make sense. It is often introduced by a conjunction as the first element and the finite verb is usually the last element.

Ich bin nicht zur Arbeit gefahren, weil ich krank war.
Du könntest ihm helfen, statt dich nur zu beschweren!

When a single auxiliary modal verb is introduced, it becomes the finite verb and the main verb is placed before it::

Er ist sich immer noch nicht sicher, ob er ihr alles erzählen soll.

If a double infintive is present, it is placed at the end and the finite verb comes before it.

Das ist das Haus, das ich hätte verkaufen sollen.

lapis lagoon
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
undone cedar
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
dreamy iris
#

faq keyboard

lean flickerBOT
#
German letters

Being able to type German letters is quite important!

  • Schon = already. Schön = beautiful.
  • Mutter = mother. Mütter = mothers.

How to? There are several options.
🔸 Use a program like AutoHotkey. Download the program from https://www.autohotkey.com/ and read the pinned message in #resources for instructions on how to set it up. It can be used with any keyboard layout and the hotkeys can be customised.
🔸 US International layout: this is basically just a US keyboard layout with extra characters, so if you're using a US-style keyboard or something similar, the transition is very easy! Everything stays as you know it, except that some of the symbol keys can be used to create the special characters. For example " + a = ä. You can also do RightAlt + s = ß.
To use US International on Windows, look for the Region & Language options and switch your selected keyboard layout to US International.
🔸 If you're on Mac, on most systems you can press and hold a letter to show several variants including umlauts. You can type ß by pressing Option + B.

See the next page for more alternatives.

proven zenith
#

faq keyboard

lean flickerBOT
#
German letters

Being able to type German letters is quite important!

  • Schon = already. Schön = beautiful.
  • Mutter = mother. Mütter = mothers.

How to? There are several options.
🔸 Use a program like AutoHotkey. Download the program from https://www.autohotkey.com/ and read the pinned message in #resources for instructions on how to set it up. It can be used with any keyboard layout and the hotkeys can be customised.
🔸 US International layout: this is basically just a US keyboard layout with extra characters, so if you're using a US-style keyboard or something similar, the transition is very easy! Everything stays as you know it, except that some of the symbol keys can be used to create the special characters. For example " + a = ä. You can also do RightAlt + s = ß.
To use US International on Windows, look for the Region & Language options and switch your selected keyboard layout to US International.
🔸 If you're on Mac, on most systems you can press and hold a letter to show several variants including umlauts. You can type ß by pressing Option + B.

See the next page for more alternatives.

tender trellis
#

faq beginner

#

faq begginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
tender trellis
#

faq ceqr

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

tender trellis
#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

drifting vector
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

glass kernel
#

@stable parrot lu vogel

tender trellis
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
gritty cedar
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
sage heron
#

<faq beginner

#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
sage heron
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
brisk birch
#

explain all

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Duolingo

Aliases: Duo

:small_blue_diamond: Eszett

Aliases: Scharfes S, ẞ, ß

:small_blue_diamond: FAQ

:small_blue_diamond: Formal and informal speech

Aliases: Sie, Du vs. Sie, Formal, Du, Siezen, Duzen vs. siezen, Du vs. sie, Informal

:small_blue_diamond: Gender patterns

:small_blue_diamond: Genitive

Aliases: Genitiv

:small_blue_diamond: German letters

Aliases: German keyboard, Keyboard

:small_blue_diamond: Grammar terms

Aliases: Glossary, Grammatical terms

:small_blue_diamond: Grammatical gender

Aliases: der-die-das, Genders, Gender

:small_blue_diamond: How long does it take to learn German

Aliases: Time required, How long to learn

:small_blue_diamond: How to ask a question

Aliases: Translation, Homework, hw, questions

:small_blue_diamond: How to get started

Aliases: Starting out, Beginner

:small_blue_diamond: How to join Voice Chat

Aliases: VC-pending, VC pending, Limited Permissions, VC

:small_blue_diamond: How to use writing

:small_blue_diamond: Imperative

Aliases: imperativ

winged sedge
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
winged sedge
tender trellis
#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

tender trellis
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
tender trellis
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
winged sedge
#

faq Perfekt

lean flickerBOT
#
Perfekt
How to form the Perfekt tense

The Perfekt tense is formed by combining an auxiliary verb (haben or sein) with the past participle form of the main verb.

For example, if I want to write the past tense of “essen”/“to eat”, such as in the English sentence “I ate”, I first need to know the auxiliary verb that goes with essen (which happens to be haben), and the past participle form of essen (which is gegessen).

I can then combine them with the usual verb conjugation and word order rules, as such:
Ich habe gegessen. -> I ate. / I have eaten.
Ich habe das Brot gegessen. -> I ate the bread. / I have eaten the bread.

How to determine the past participle?

Just look it up in the dictionary! There are a few general patterns you can also learn about, but a dictionary will pretty much always list the past participle somewhere near the verb itself.

When to use haben and when to use sein as the auxiliary verb?

The basic rules are:
• Transitive verbs (verbs which take an accusative object) use haben
• Intransitive verbs which describe a change of location or change of state use sein
• Other intransitive verbs use haben

This may not be a 100% reliable set of rules, so if in doubt, you can always use a dictionary to verify the correct auxiliary. Also note that there are a few regional variations.

tender trellis
#

faq Duolingo

lean flickerBOT
#
Duolingo

Duolingo is a decent resource to start with if you're a complete beginner, but it's neither efficient nor comprehensive!

What Duolingo will teach you about grammar is very limited, and none of the systems they use will help you practise much of it.
You can learn some vocabulary with it, but their method (based on the concept of spaced repetition) doesn't work for everybody, and the way Duolingo teaches is not very effective compared to the amount of time it requires from you.

So, if you find it useful, by all means keep using it, but remember not to fall for its gamification of language learning, and move past it when it stops being beneficial. Ignore the streaks.

In any case, keep in mind that Duolingo is not enough to learn a language, ever.

If you're looking for guidance or alternatives, check out >faq beginner in our #botchannel .

final wraith
#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

warm forge
#

explain all

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Absentive

Aliases: Absentiv

:small_blue_diamond: Accusative

Aliases: Akkusativ

:small_blue_diamond: Adjective Declension

Aliases: Adjektivdeklination, Adjective endings

:small_blue_diamond: AI in language learning

Aliases: ai, chatgpt

:small_blue_diamond: Anki

Aliases: Flashcards

:small_blue_diamond: Beide vs. Beides

Aliases: Beides vs. Beide, Beides, Beide

:small_blue_diamond: Best way to learn German

Aliases: Fastest way to learn, Learn fast, Most efficient way to learn, Learn efficiently, Best way to learn, Learn German fast

:small_blue_diamond: Can anyone teach me German

Aliases: Private tutors, Teach me, Teach me German, Teach German, Private lessons, Private teachers

:small_blue_diamond: Cases

Aliases: Grammatical case, Case

:small_blue_diamond: CEFR levels

Aliases: CEFR, CERF

:small_blue_diamond: Conjugation

Aliases: Konjugation, Praesens, Verbs, Verb conjugation, Present tense, Präsens

:small_blue_diamond: Contractions

Aliases: Verschmelzung, Schmelzwort, Vom

:small_blue_diamond: DACH

:small_blue_diamond: Dative

Aliases: Dativ

:small_blue_diamond: Doch

tender trellis
#

faq begginer

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
void nymph
#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

normal knoll
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
pseudo magnet
#

faq gender

lean flickerBOT
#
Grammatical gender

German nouns are sorted in three different genders: masculine, neuter and feminine. These have nothing to do with sex or social gender.
The first thing genders will influence are articles like der, das, die. Each word has its own and you better get it right: some words that look identical can have different meanings depending on the gender they're used with. For example:
die Band = the (musical) band,
der Band = the (book) volume,
das Band = the tape.

Some words, mainly trademarks and loanwords, have multiple acceptable genders while having no change in meaning:
der Jogurt = das Jogurt
das Virus = der Virus
These may vary by region or colloquiality.

💢 But WHY, German, WHY
Gender is actually quite useful! Since sentence structure is less rigid than in English, grammatical case helps you tell the various elements apart (with some practice), and that works through genders: each gender has its own forms, which makes everything a little less ambiguous. Besides, as you've seen with Band above, it allows us to make up words with different meanings that look the same but are not ambiguous, and if that's not magic, I don't know what is. ✨

🙀 But how am I supposed to tell them apart? 🙀
Check out >explain gender patterns. 😉

pseudo magnet
#

explain gender patterns

lean flickerBOT
#
Gender patterns

Unfortunately, many German words don't have immediately clear clues that reveal it, but thankfully, many common words do follow patterns that reveal their gender.
In general, you are advised to learn the article together with the word (and its plural!).
Plural forms always use die and follow plural declension rules, which are the same for all genders (yay 🎉).
For compound words, remember that only the last word matters.
Type >explain grammatical gender for an explanation on grammatical gender.

Here's a list of patterns to recognise word gender.
Note that exceptions may apply.

pseudo magnet
#

explain grammatical gender

lean flickerBOT
#
Grammatical gender

German nouns are sorted in three different genders: masculine, neuter and feminine. These have nothing to do with sex or social gender.
The first thing genders will influence are articles like der, das, die. Each word has its own and you better get it right: some words that look identical can have different meanings depending on the gender they're used with. For example:
die Band = the (musical) band,
der Band = the (book) volume,
das Band = the tape.

Some words, mainly trademarks and loanwords, have multiple acceptable genders while having no change in meaning:
der Jogurt = das Jogurt
das Virus = der Virus
These may vary by region or colloquiality.

💢 But WHY, German, WHY
Gender is actually quite useful! Since sentence structure is less rigid than in English, grammatical case helps you tell the various elements apart (with some practice), and that works through genders: each gender has its own forms, which makes everything a little less ambiguous. Besides, as you've seen with Band above, it allows us to make up words with different meanings that look the same but are not ambiguous, and if that's not magic, I don't know what is. ✨

🙀 But how am I supposed to tell them apart? 🙀
Check out >explain gender patterns. 😉

terse cloud
#

faq duolingo

lean flickerBOT
#
Duolingo

Duolingo is a decent resource to start with if you're a complete beginner, but it's neither efficient nor comprehensive!

What Duolingo will teach you about grammar is very limited, and none of the systems they use will help you practise much of it.
You can learn some vocabulary with it, but their method (based on the concept of spaced repetition) doesn't work for everybody, and the way Duolingo teaches is not very effective compared to the amount of time it requires from you.

So, if you find it useful, by all means keep using it, but remember not to fall for its gamification of language learning, and move past it when it stops being beneficial. Ignore the streaks.

In any case, keep in mind that Duolingo is not enough to learn a language, ever.

If you're looking for guidance or alternatives, check out >faq beginner in our #botchannel .

terse cloud
#

faq beginnner

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. I found the following similar entry: Beginner (1)
Select one of the values in the brackets to directly open the suggested FAQ.

terse cloud
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
terse cloud
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
odd quiver
#

faq best way to learn

lean flickerBOT
#
Best way to learn German

There isn’t only one “best” way to learn German, especially since different methods work better for different people. However, this FAQ will outline the main aspects of learning efficiently, which you can cater to your needs.

If you’re a beginner, type >faq beginner in #botchannel to see our beginner guide.

Cover all skills

There are many combinations of activities you can use to study and practice a language. How do you know which combinations are suitable? The key is to make sure you cover each of the main skills with at least one activity. Some activities only train one skills, while some train multiple – either is fine, as long as all the 6 skills are covered somewhere in your studies.

The skills

• Reading
• Writing
• Listening
• Speaking
• Grammar
• Vocabulary

Which resources should I use?

It doesn’t really matter which resources you use, as long as you can follow along, and the information is correct and reliable. If you have any doubts about whether a resource is correct, feel free to ask. You do not need to find just one resource and stick to it – in fact, to learn best, it’s recommended that you use a large variety of resources and switch between them when needed.

Type >faq resources in #botchannel to see our list of resources.

On the next page

• Should I study all these skills every day?
• How much time should I dedicate to studying?

full bramble
#

@magic hawk do >faq beginner

magic hawk
#

faq

lean flickerBOT
#

:x: The required argument name is missing.

magic hawk
#

faq beginner !

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. I found the following similar entry: Beginner (1)
Select one of the values in the brackets to directly open the suggested FAQ.

magic hawk
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
magic hawk
cloud vessel
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
arctic oxide
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
golden dock
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
spice abyss
#

faq beginner

#

explain grammatical gender

#

explain grammatical gender patterns

tacit topaz
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
tacit topaz
#

HO boy

scenic lintel
#

help dict

lean flickerBOT
#

No command or module called dict found.

scenic lintel
#

help

lean flickerBOT
#
German commands
:small_blue_diamond: **lookup** <target> <phrase>

Translates the given phrase into the specified target language using dict.cc. Specify either en or de as targets.

:small_blue_diamond: **noun** <noun>

Provides a link to the declension of the given noun.

:small_blue_diamond: **verb** <infinitive>

Provides a link to the conjugation of the given infinitive.

:small_blue_diamond: **words**

A command that helps you train vocabulary using dict.cc.

scenic lintel
#

lookup en dichter

lean flickerBOT
#
Translations for dichter:
**:small_blue_diamond:** denser

dichter

**:small_blue_diamond:** literary

dichterisch [schriftstellerisch] <dichter.>

**:small_blue_diamond:** closer

dichter

**:small_blue_diamond:** poet

Dichter

**:small_blue_diamond:** bard *[literary]* *[poet]*

Dichter

tender trellis
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
quiet grotto
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
quiet grotto
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
tender trellis
#

help

lean flickerBOT
#
Semantle commands
:small_blue_diamond: **📒 semantle**

No description provided.

autumn wren
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
autumn wren
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
golden dock
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
lament elm
#

.wk

austere dagger
#

faq fastest way to learn

lean flickerBOT
#
Best way to learn German

There isn’t only one “best” way to learn German, especially since different methods work better for different people. However, this FAQ will outline the main aspects of learning efficiently, which you can cater to your needs.

If you’re a beginner, type >faq beginner in #botchannel to see our beginner guide.

Cover all skills

There are many combinations of activities you can use to study and practice a language. How do you know which combinations are suitable? The key is to make sure you cover each of the main skills with at least one activity. Some activities only train one skills, while some train multiple – either is fine, as long as all the 6 skills are covered somewhere in your studies.

The skills

• Reading
• Writing
• Listening
• Speaking
• Grammar
• Vocabulary

Which resources should I use?

It doesn’t really matter which resources you use, as long as you can follow along, and the information is correct and reliable. If you have any doubts about whether a resource is correct, feel free to ask. You do not need to find just one resource and stick to it – in fact, to learn best, it’s recommended that you use a large variety of resources and switch between them when needed.

Type >faq resources in #botchannel to see our list of resources.

On the next page

• Should I study all these skills every day?
• How much time should I dedicate to studying?

dense vigil
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
dense vigil
#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

glacial brook
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
worldly trellis
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
worldly trellis
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
undone ingot
#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

undone ingot
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
undone ingot
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
uncut zodiac
#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

viscid shadow
#

faq conjugation

lean flickerBOT
#
Conjugation

Präsens (Present Tense)
When you use a verb in a sentence (or clause), you have to conjugate it (change the form) to match the subject of the sentence (or clause).

For example, in English, we write I eat but he/she eats. The verb has a different ending! The concept is the same in German, except German has more endings.

The first thing you need to know in order to conjugate verbs is: which ending fits which subject? Here is a simple verb “trinken” (to drink) as an example:

trinken
ich trinke
du trinkst
er/sie/es trinkt
wir trinken
ihr trinkt
sie trinken / Sie trinken
(Note: the conjugation for sie (they) and Sie (formal you) is always the same)

Vowel/Stem Changes
There are a few variations and exceptions, but the most important is vowel changes (also called stem changes). Some verbs get a vowel change, which only affects the du and er/sie/es forms of the verb. (However, modal verbs and wissen have their own special pattern, which also has a vowel change in the ich form.)

Example: ich schlafe, du schläfst

Other Changes
There are various other differences but I can’t describe them all here, so please read these websites or use Google to find more information: https://www.vistawide.com/german/grammar/german_verbs_present_tense.htm
https://www.thoughtco.com/german-present-tense-verbs-4074838
http://www.dartmouth.edu/~deutsch/Grammatik/PresentTense/Present.html

distant sage
#

faq Nicos Wag

lean flickerBOT
#
Nicos

Nicos Weg is a free online program aimed at helping people learn German. It includes video, audio, text, grammar explanations, notes, vocabulary, and exercises. It also includes very useful cultural and bureaucratic information, such as how to open a bank account, while teaching you the relevant grammar and vocabulary.

It’s fairly popular and well-recommended, but keep in mind that you can’t learn a language with only one resource, even if it’s a good one!

You can find the courses here: https://learngerman.dw.com/en/overview/

You can also see various other courses for learners by dw.com here: https://www.dw.com/en/learn-german/s-2469/

wide rock
#

help 10

lean flickerBOT
#

No command or module called 10 found.

wide rock
#

help

lean flickerBOT
#
Generic 1/2 commands
:small_blue_diamond: **getrole** <role name>

Assigns you a role with the given name, removing any previous assignable roles.
Note: Use >sub to subscribe to groups and ping a moderator for the native speaker role.

:small_blue_diamond: **info** [user]

Displays information about the given user. If no user is specified, information about you will be displayed.

:small_blue_diamond: **quote** <message>

Quotes a message in the channel you are in.
As input specify the mention or name of the channel that the message was originally posted in and provide the message id of the message (accessible if you turn on developer mode in your Discord settings).
Instead of channel and message id you may also specify a message link.

:small_blue_diamond: **removerole** <role name>

Removes the CEFR role with the given name from you.
Note: Use >unsub for group roles.

:small_blue_diamond: **roles**

Lists all roles on the server.

wide rock
#

info 1108483022908555395

lean flickerBOT
#
Information about Lucianaa#2397
Name

@hoary schooner

ID

1108483022908555395

Joined

<t:1688815964> (3 days, 23 hours and 7 minutes ago)

Account created

<t:1684353347> (1 month, 3 weeks and 3 days ago)

fickle arch
#

info

lean flickerBOT
#
Information about alphasamurai1a#0000
Name

@fickle arch

ID

1059863405491666964

Joined

<t:1689094419> (18 hours, 46 minutes and 35 seconds ago)

Account created

<t:1672761527> (6 months, 1 week and 1 day ago)

loud snow
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
loud snow
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
tardy silo
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
tardy silo
#

faq cerc

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. I found the following similar entry: CERF (1)
Select one of the values in the brackets to directly open the suggested FAQ.

tardy silo
#

faq cerf

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

tender trellis
#

faq roles

lean flickerBOT
tight rivet
#

faq absentiv

lean flickerBOT
#
The grammar of the absentiv

The abesentive takes the form: [subject] + [conjugated sein] + [infinitive of action verb] (e.g. Theo ist einkaufen).
The action verb is typically an intransitive verb, but can also be a transitive verb. It is additionally important to note that the absentiv should not have any local adverbs, or other syntactic indications of absence. I.e. weg and (weg)gegangen are not found in sentences that use the absentive. Additionally, the absentiv cannot be formed in combination with progressive forms such as am Einkaufen, beim Einkaufen, etc. Finally, the absentiv is typically built in the preterite (präteritum) and present tense.
E.g.
Er war arbeiten - He was away at work.
Ich bin pinkeln - I am away peeing.

More information

Unfortunately the amount of information available on the absentiv is fairly limited as it's both only typically used in spoken language, and is a fairly recent development within german language research. Thus explanations in grammar books are scarce, and the absentiv is typically not taught in Deutsch als Fremdsprache classes. However, you can read a bit about the absentiv here in Alle sind Deutschland … außer Fritz Eckenga – der ist einkaufen!, König 2009.

tough mountain
#

faq begginer

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
nova timber
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
nova timber
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
nova timber
#

faq duolingo

lean flickerBOT
#
Duolingo

Duolingo is a decent resource to start with if you're a complete beginner, but it's neither efficient nor comprehensive!

What Duolingo will teach you about grammar is very limited, and none of the systems they use will help you practise much of it.
You can learn some vocabulary with it, but their method (based on the concept of spaced repetition) doesn't work for everybody, and the way Duolingo teaches is not very effective compared to the amount of time it requires from you.

So, if you find it useful, by all means keep using it, but remember not to fall for its gamification of language learning, and move past it when it stops being beneficial. Ignore the streaks.

In any case, keep in mind that Duolingo is not enough to learn a language, ever.

If you're looking for guidance or alternatives, check out >faq beginner in our #botchannel .

nova timber
#

faq Nicos Weg

lean flickerBOT
#
Nicos

Nicos Weg is a free online program aimed at helping people learn German. It includes video, audio, text, grammar explanations, notes, vocabulary, and exercises. It also includes very useful cultural and bureaucratic information, such as how to open a bank account, while teaching you the relevant grammar and vocabulary.

It’s fairly popular and well-recommended, but keep in mind that you can’t learn a language with only one resource, even if it’s a good one!

You can find the courses here: https://learngerman.dw.com/en/overview/

You can also see various other courses for learners by dw.com here: https://www.dw.com/en/learn-german/s-2469/

golden dock
#

atar meaning

#

faq atar meaning

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. I found the following similar entry: Meaning (1)
Select one of the values in the brackets to directly open the suggested FAQ.

golden dock
#

faq to tie german

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

golden dock
#

faq to tie german

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. I found the following similar entry: Teach German (1)
Select one of the values in the brackets to directly open the suggested FAQ.

errant pecan
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
errant pecan
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
haughty bear
#

faq cases

lean flickerBOT
#
Cases

Cases
German has four grammatical cases (der Fall or der Kasus in German): nominative, accusative, dative, and genitive. A case alters a noun, pronoun, adjective, etc., in some way to mark its grammatical function in a phrase, clause, or sentence. For example, the main function of the nominative (der Nominativ) case is to mark the subject in a sentence:

Ich liebe die deutsche Sprache!

In this sentence, the pronoun ich represents the first person subject and is in the nominative case. Every noun, pronoun, adjective, etc. has form in every case and it is very important to learn all of them. For example, the accusative form of ich is mich:

Die deutsche Sprache liebt mich!

See >explain adjective declension to get started on that. Don't get discouraged by how much there is, it takes some time master.

To see an explanation of the usages of every case, see their individual articles:
>explain nominative
>explain accusative
>explain dative
>explain genitive

haughty bear
#

explain accusative

sage lodge
#

explain akkusativ

lean flickerBOT
#
Accusative

The accusative case (der Akkusativ) is one of the four cases of the German language. A case affects how a noun or noun phrase is inflected, and indicates the role of the noun or noun phrase in a clause.

How do I decline in the accusative case?

Feminine and neuter nouns and adjectives are the same as nominative. Masculine determiners, adjectives, and weak nouns gain an -en ending::

Ich esse den/einen/keinen kleinen Apfel.

Personal pronouns differ for:

ich --> mich
du --> dich
er --> ihn
wir --> uns
ihr --> euch

For a full explanation see >explain adjective declension

haughty bear
#

verify

ember star
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
ember star
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
tender trellis
#

.

real garnet
#

faqbeginner

#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
open acorn
#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

untold lily
#

info

lean flickerBOT
#
Information about nola1222#0000
Name

@untold lily

ID

188725806065909760

Joined

<t:1501922015> (5 years, 11 months and 1 week ago)

Account created

<t:1465066138> (7 years, 1 month and 1 week ago)

raven obsidian
#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

tender trellis
#

info

lean flickerBOT
#
Information about _pepps#0000
Name

@round thorn

ID

577887322306117644

Joined

<t:1686473062> (1 month, 3 days and 8 hours ago)

Account created

<t:1557849474> (4 years, 2 months and 1 hour ago)

potent finch
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
potent finch
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
tall raptor
#

faq begginer

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. I found the following similar entry: Beginner (1)
Select one of the values in the brackets to directly open the suggested FAQ.

tall raptor
#

FAQ beginner

#

FAQ beginner

#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
subtle cradle
#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

tall raptor
#

FAQ cefr

#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

oak bane
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role

sleek cairn
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purpose Reading

lean flickerBOT
#
Information about Reading
Reading

This role is for members of the Reading group. Members of this group will be pinged with updates regarding reading sessions. This involves reading a text in German and (usually) translating it into English. This activity is aimed at all levels.

Enter >sub reading in #botchannel to get pings about sessions.

elfin violet
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faq best way to learn

lean flickerBOT
#
Best way to learn German
Should I study all these skills every day?

If you want to study them all every day, you can, but some people may find it easier to focus on particular skills on particular days. For example, on Monday you might choose to do a lot of writing practice, and then on Tuesday you might plan some conversation practice with some speaking partners.

If you try to cover too many different things in one day, then you might be jumping around all over the place and not able to focus on each individual task. It’s also a really good idea to have a different schedule or set of tasks each day to keep things from getting boring. So setting a special schedule or set of tasks for each day of the week - like the Monday writing day, or every Friday you do some grammar exercises followed by watching TV shows, or any other combination you like – is a really good way to go.

How much time should I dedicate to studying?

Everyone has a different schedule and everyone learns at a different pace. It is recommended to study every day, preferably for 30 minutes or more, but taking 1-2 days off is okay. More important is how many hours you study in a week.

A casual pace will be roughly around 5-8 hours a week, a steady pace would be around 10-14 hours a week, and a fast pace (around the same pace as a university subject) will be 15-20 hours a week.

Anything less than 5 hours and you may find it hard to keep improving steadily (but feel free to try it and see how it works for you), while studying one subject for over 25 hours a week may quickly lead to burnout.

How you choose to spread those hours out over the week is not that important; for example, if you have a lot of time on the weekend but not during the week, it’s fine to do short study sessions on weekdays and then dedicate a bunch of time on Saturday and Sunday.

On the next page

• Factors that influence learning a language.

elfin violet
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faq resources

lean flickerBOT
eager mantle
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faq passive

lean flickerBOT
#
Passive Voice

In English and German, a verb can have one of two voices which describe the relationship between the verb and the subject. These voices are the active voice and passive voice.

Typically, we use the active voice, where the subject is the doer or agent of the action. For example:

The man eats the apple.

In this sentence, the agent (the man) is acting upon (by eating) the object (the apple).

In the passive voice, the subject is the receiver or patient of the action. This typically places the emphasis on the patient or action, and the agent can be left out altogether if it is unknown or irrelevant. For example, the above sentence converted into the passive voice becomes:

The apple is being eaten.

In this example, the patient (the apple) is being acted upon (by being eaten) by an unknown agent.

Vorgangspassiv and Zustandspassiv

German offers two passive forms: the Vorgangspassiv and the Zustandspassiv. The Vorgangspassiv refers to the process of an action, while the Zustandspassiv refers to the state of an action. The Vorgangspassiv is more often used and relates closely to the active voice. See >explain Vorgangspassiv for an explanation of the Vorgangspassiv, and see >explain Stative Passive for an explanation of Zustandspassiv.

See Also

https://bit.ly/2Nqu84t (dartmouth university)
https://bit.ly/3sSXs9A (leo.org)
https://bit.ly/2RyEodX (Passive Voice on Pferd's blog)

eager mantle
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explain Vorgangspassiv

lean flickerBOT
#
Vorgangspassiv

Vorgangspassiv
The Vorgangspassiv is formed with werden as the finite/conjugated verb and the past participle of the main verb (or action verb) in the active voice sentence.

For example, when we translate The man eats the apple., we get:

Der Mann isst den Apfel.

When this sentence is converted into its passive voice equivalent, several things happen:

  • The finite verb becomes the equivalent conjugation for werden. isst --> wird
  • The main verb is then converted into its past participle and placed at the end of the clause, when possible. isst --> gegessen
  • The accusative object becomes the (nominative) subject. den Apfel --> Der Apfel
  • The subject is indicated with the preposition von or simply left out altogether. Der Mann --> (vom Mann)

Putting this together, we create the passive voice sentence:

Der Apfel wird (vom Mann) gegessen.

Only the accusative object of a verb can become the subject in a passive sentence. This means verbs that govern a dative, genitive, or prepositional object can never become the subject. Instead, the object remains as it was.

For example, the verb helfen governs a dative object. An example with it in an active sentence would be:

Der Mann hat dem Kollegen geholfen.

When converted to the passive voice, dem Kollegen does not change case:

Dem Kollegen wurde (vom Mann) geholfen.

This applies equally to verbs that govern genitive and prepositonal objects:

Der Toten wurde gedacht.
Über das Thema wird kaum gesprochen.

Tenses & Moods

Present: Der Apfel wird gegessen.
Simple Past: Der Apfel wurde gegessen.
Future: Der Apfel wird gegessen werden.
Present Perfect: Der Apfel ist gegessen worden.
Past Perfect: Der Apfel war gegessen worden.
Future Perfect: Der Apfel wird gegessen worden sein.

See Also:

https://bit.ly/2Quvo8q (Pferd's blog)

eager mantle
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explain Stative Passive

lean flickerBOT
#
Stative Passive

Stative Passive (Zustandspassiv)
The passive voice with werden (Vorgangspassiv) refers to the process of an action; it indicates that an action is taking place. The resulting state of this action can be indicated with a different version of the passive voice called the Stative Passive (Zustandspassiv). This form uses sein instead of werden as its auxiliary verb. For example:

Das Fenster ist zerbrochen. (The window is broken)

Transitive verbs that are valid in the Vorgangspassiv can typically be used in the Zustandspassiv and vice versa. The Zustandspassiv, however, tends to prefer verbs that have a clear end state, such as: zerstören, öffnen, schließen.

Vorgangspassiv vs Zustandspassiv
The difference between the two passive voice forms is best illustrated with an example:

Der Tresor war verschlossen, aber wir haben nicht gesehen, wie er verschlossen wurde.
The safe was locked but we did not see how it was locked.

In the first clause, the state of the safe is being discussed. The process of locking the safe was completed and the safe reached a condition of being locked. The last clause concentrates on the process of locking the safe, namely how it was done. The safe has somehow reached a state of being locked, but this process was not observed.

As the Vorgangspassiv discusses a process, it often relates to the English progressive aspect, but this is never true for the Zustandspassiv. For example, the English sentence:

The product is being packed.

Can be translated as:

Die Ware wird verpackt.

But cannot be translated as:

Die Ware ist verpackt.

This loses the implication of a process, which the English progressive aspect and Vorgangspassiv possess. Instead, this sentence indicates that this process is complete and the product is now packed. Thus, it would be an acceptable translation for:

The product has been packed.

pine arch
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fag beginner

#

fac beginner

#

fk

#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
tulip vessel
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
onyx ember
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
onyx ember
#

faq cefr

worn bone
#

help

lean flickerBOT
#
German commands
:small_blue_diamond: **lookup** <target> <phrase>

Translates the given phrase into the specified target language using dict.cc. Specify either en or de as targets.

:small_blue_diamond: **noun** <noun>

Provides a link to the declension of the given noun.

:small_blue_diamond: **verb** <infinitive>

Provides a link to the conjugation of the given infinitive.

:small_blue_diamond: **words**

A command that helps you train vocabulary using dict.cc.

worn bone
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help faq

lean flickerBOT
#
faq

**Aliases: **ex, explain
Provides commands for looking up explanations about popular learning-related topics. Use >faq <name> to see the entry with the given name.

:small_blue_diamond: **faq all**

**Aliases: **faq show, faq list
Displays all FAQ entries that are currently available.

:small_blue_diamond: **faq** <name>

**Aliases: **ex, explain
Provides commands for looking up explanations about popular learning-related topics. Use >faq <name> to see the entry with the given name.

:small_blue_diamond: **faq info** <name>

Displays meta information about the FAQ entry with the given name.

:small_blue_diamond: **faq search** <name>

Retrieves all FAQ entries whose names or aliases roughly match the given name.

worn bone
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faq all

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Duolingo

Aliases: Duo

:small_blue_diamond: Eszett

Aliases: Scharfes S, ẞ, ß

:small_blue_diamond: FAQ

:small_blue_diamond: Formal and informal speech

Aliases: Sie, Du vs. Sie, Formal, Du, Siezen, Duzen vs. siezen, Du vs. sie, Informal

:small_blue_diamond: Gender patterns

:small_blue_diamond: Genitive

Aliases: Genitiv

:small_blue_diamond: German letters

Aliases: German keyboard, Keyboard

:small_blue_diamond: Grammar terms

Aliases: Glossary, Grammatical terms

:small_blue_diamond: Grammatical gender

Aliases: der-die-das, Genders, Gender

:small_blue_diamond: How long does it take to learn German

Aliases: Time required, How long to learn

:small_blue_diamond: How to ask a question

Aliases: Translation, Homework, hw, questions

:small_blue_diamond: How to get started

Aliases: Starting out, Beginner

:small_blue_diamond: How to join Voice Chat

Aliases: VC-pending, VC pending, Limited Permissions, VC

:small_blue_diamond: How to use writing

:small_blue_diamond: Imperative

Aliases: imperativ

worn bone
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
waxen cypress
#

Help me

frail pollen
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
fathom stone
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faq resources

lean flickerBOT
eager mantle
#

faq perfect

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. I found the following similar entries: perfekt (1), present perfect (2)
Select one of the values in the brackets to directly open the suggested FAQ.

eager mantle
#

faq perfekt

lean flickerBOT
#
Perfekt
How to form the Perfekt tense

The Perfekt tense is formed by combining an auxiliary verb (haben or sein) with the past participle form of the main verb.

For example, if I want to write the past tense of “essen”/“to eat”, such as in the English sentence “I ate”, I first need to know the auxiliary verb that goes with essen (which happens to be haben), and the past participle form of essen (which is gegessen).

I can then combine them with the usual verb conjugation and word order rules, as such:
Ich habe gegessen. -> I ate. / I have eaten.
Ich habe das Brot gegessen. -> I ate the bread. / I have eaten the bread.

How to determine the past participle?

Just look it up in the dictionary! There are a few general patterns you can also learn about, but a dictionary will pretty much always list the past participle somewhere near the verb itself.

When to use haben and when to use sein as the auxiliary verb?

The basic rules are:
• Transitive verbs (verbs which take an accusative object) use haben
• Intransitive verbs which describe a change of location or change of state use sein
• Other intransitive verbs use haben

This may not be a 100% reliable set of rules, so if in doubt, you can always use a dictionary to verify the correct auxiliary. Also note that there are a few regional variations.

tender trellis
#

emojistats

lean flickerBOT
#
Server Emoji Stats
Total Amount Of Emoji Uses

592239

Total Amount Of Emoji Reaction Uses

181643

Top Emojis
  1. peepohappy2 (41672 uses, 7%, 74.45 uses/day)
  2. ARREMBESTMODXD (40229 uses, 7%, 51.73 uses/day)
  3. peepohappy (40119 uses, 7%, 51.59 uses/day)
  4. prayge (32827 uses, 6%, 65.17 uses/day)
  5. peepocry (31852 uses, 5%, 40.96 uses/day)
  6. acid_do_mathematics (30864 uses, 5%, 39.69 uses/day)
  7. idiotbulli (27530 uses, 5%, 35.4 uses/day)
  8. hmmnote (20340 uses, 3%, 41.53 uses/day)
  9. flooshed (17895 uses, 3%, 23.01 uses/day)
  10. peeposus (12562 uses, 2%, 19.09 uses/day)
Top Reaction Emojis
  1. prayge (15057 uses, 8% 29.89 uses/day)
  2. ARREMBESTMODXD (14143 uses, 8% 18.19 uses/day)
  3. peepohappy2 (11041 uses, 6% 19.73 uses/day)
  4. hmmnote (9405 uses, 5% 19.2 uses/day)
  5. needsimprovement (8456 uses, 5% 10.87 uses/day)
  6. peepohappy (7714 uses, 4% 9.92 uses/day)
  7. peepopat (7166 uses, 4% 9.21 uses/day)
  8. wavedog (5885 uses, 3% 7.57 uses/day)
  9. acid_do_mathematics (5443 uses, 3% 7.0 uses/day)
  10. flooshed (5434 uses, 3% 6.99 uses/day)
tender trellis
#

emojistats user @tender trellis

lean flickerBOT
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User Emoji Stats for aleoubii#0000
Total Amount Of Emoji Uses

1305

Total Amount Of Emoji Reaction Uses

352

Top Emojis
  1. blobblush (204 uses, 16%, 0.43 uses/day)
  2. peepohappy (189 uses, 14%, 0.24 uses/day)
  3. peepopat (150 uses, 11%, 0.19 uses/day)
  4. gremlin (97 uses, 7%, 0.12 uses/day)
  5. wavepengu (68 uses, 5%, 0.09 uses/day)
  6. peepocry (64 uses, 5%, 0.08 uses/day)
  7. idiotbulli (55 uses, 4%, 0.07 uses/day)
  8. menace (53 uses, 4%, 0.07 uses/day)
  9. hmmnote (50 uses, 4%, 0.1 uses/day)
  10. im_angy (47 uses, 4%, 0.1 uses/day)
Top Reaction Emojis
  1. peepopat (58 uses, 16% 0.07 uses/day)
  2. blobblush (40 uses, 11% 0.08 uses/day)
  3. wavepengu (39 uses, 11% 0.05 uses/day)
  4. peepohappy2 (30 uses, 9% 0.05 uses/day)
  5. wavedog (24 uses, 7% 0.03 uses/day)
  6. idiotbulli (23 uses, 7% 0.03 uses/day)
  7. hmmnote (18 uses, 5% 0.04 uses/day)
  8. gremlin (12 uses, 3% 0.02 uses/day)
  9. nom (12 uses, 3% 0.02 uses/day)
  10. im_angy (11 uses, 3% 0.02 uses/day)
wraith kettle
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
wraith kettle
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
reef dirge
#

faq begineer

#

faq cecr

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

reef dirge
#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
reef dirge
#

faq begineer

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
wraith kettle
#

help

lean flickerBOT
#
Latex commands
:small_blue_diamond: **latex** <content>

Renders the given LaTeX content and posts the result. The provided code is automatically wrapped in a math environment.

:small_blue_diamond: **latexalign** <content>

Renders the given LaTeX content and posts the result. The provided code is automatically wrapped in a math and an align* environment.

:small_blue_diamond: **latextext** <content>

Renders the given LaTeX content and posts the result. If you want the code to be automatically wrapped in a math environment use >latex instead.

wraith kettle
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help

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inspireme

lean flickerBOT
wraith kettle
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help

lean flickerBOT
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German commands
:small_blue_diamond: **lookup** <target> <phrase>

Translates the given phrase into the specified target language using dict.cc. Specify either en or de as targets.

:small_blue_diamond: **noun** <noun>

Provides a link to the declension of the given noun.

:small_blue_diamond: **verb** <infinitive>

Provides a link to the conjugation of the given infinitive.

:small_blue_diamond: **words**

A command that helps you train vocabulary using dict.cc.

wraith kettle
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noun Mittagessen

lean flickerBOT
wraith kettle
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words

lean flickerBOT
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**Wrong.** What does *bootlegging* mean?

:regional_indicator_a: eigentümlich
:regional_indicator_b: holsteinisch
:regional_indicator_c: erbärmlich
:regional_indicator_d: schmuggelnd

wraith kettle
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help german commands

lean flickerBOT
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No command or module called german commands found.

wraith kettle
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help

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stats

lean flickerBOT
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Server Command Stats
Total Amount Of Command Invocations

121049

Top Commands

:first_place:: info (21152 uses)
:second_place:: faq (16900 uses)
:third_place:: play (6569 uses)
:medal:: tts (6463 uses)
:medal:: wörtle (6028 uses)

Top Commands Today

:first_place:: info (35 uses)
:second_place:: warn issue (12 uses)
:third_place:: faq (11 uses)
:medal:: tickets create (6 uses)
:medal:: mute (6 uses)

Top Command Users

:first_place:: @proud obsidian (16792 uses)
:second_place:: @upbeat compass (13165 uses)
:third_place:: @desert mural (11546 uses)
:medal:: @prime fjord (7819 uses)
:medal:: @latent talon (7591 uses)

Top Command Users Today

:first_place:: @latent talon (55 uses)
:second_place:: @desert mural (14 uses)
:third_place:: @upbeat compass (12 uses)
:medal:: @wraith kettle (11 uses)
:medal:: @reef dirge (4 uses)

Successful Invocations

100%

Successful Invocations Today

100%

#

:x: The required argument prompt is missing.

wraith kettle
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help

lean flickerBOT
#
Meme 2/2 commands
:small_blue_diamond: **patcow** <member>

Pats the given member's cow.

:small_blue_diamond: **petdog** <member>

Pets the given member's dog.

:small_blue_diamond: **shootcat** <member>

Shoot the given member's cat, like the monster you are.

:small_blue_diamond: **shootdog** <member>

Shoot the given member's dog, like the monster you are.

wraith kettle
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shootcat @lean flicker

lean flickerBOT
wraith kettle
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bonk @wraith kettle

lean flickerBOT
fresh mango
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cefr a

lean flickerBOT
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:white_check_mark: Your current CEFR role has been replaced with Level A.

brisk pine
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purpose german-only

lean flickerBOT
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Information about german-only
german-only

🇩🇪 :flag_at: :flag_ch: :flag_be: :flag_lu: :flag_li: Please only talk in German here. :)

vale walrus
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faq word order

lean flickerBOT
#
Word Order for Verbs

Word Order - Verbs

The placement of the finite verb (or conjugated verb) is very important to the structure of a German sentence. While most other elements in a sentence can be moved, the position of the finite verb is fixed.

🔸 Main clause
A main clause is an independent clause that makes sense by itself. Here the finite verb is always the second element.

Der Mann gibt der Frau das Buch.

An auxiliary/modal verb (e.g. müssen) replaces the original verb (called the main verb) as the finite verb and results in the main verb being placed at the end of the clause. Additionally, the main verb is returned to its infinitive or past participle form, depending on the tense.

Der Mann muss der Frau das Buch geben.

🔸 Questions & Statements
The finite verb is always the first element.

Siehst du den Ausgang?

Interrogative words (or w-words) are considered to be in the zeroth position.

Worauf wartet ihr?

Auxiliary/modal verbs have the same effect as before:

Kannst du den Ausgang sehen?
Worauf habt ihr gewartet?

🔸 Subordinate clause
A subordinate clause depends on a main clause to make sense. It is often introduced by a conjunction as the first element and the finite verb is usually the last element.

Ich bin nicht zur Arbeit gefahren, weil ich krank war.
Du könntest ihm helfen, statt dich nur zu beschweren!

When a single auxiliary modal verb is introduced, it becomes the finite verb and the main verb is placed before it::

Er ist sich immer noch nicht sicher, ob er ihr alles erzählen soll.

If a double infintive is present, it is placed at the end and the finite verb comes before it.

Das ist das Haus, das ich hätte verkaufen sollen.

radiant pier
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faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
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How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
icy cargo
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.

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noun Tisch

lean flickerBOT
icy cargo
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verb anfangen

lean flickerBOT
short tiger
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faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
sand steeple
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words

lean flickerBOT
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**Correct!** What does *appeal* mean?

:regional_indicator_a: Vorabfühlen
:regional_indicator_b: Elmsfeuer
:regional_indicator_c: Stecknadeln
:regional_indicator_d: Gesuch

wraith kettle
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help

lean flickerBOT
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Reminders commands
:small_blue_diamond: **📒 remind** <time> <message>

Has the bot remind you about things. You can specify a time in a short time format (e.g., 1y, 7w, 2mo, 1h30m) or a long format (e.g, 2020-12-31 23:59 CET) and a message for your reminder text.

north relic
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words

lean flickerBOT
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**Correct!** What does *veniality* mean?

:regional_indicator_a: Entschuldbarkeit
:regional_indicator_b: Resteessen
:regional_indicator_c: Dummejungenstreich
:regional_indicator_d: Unterbrechungspunkt

wraith kettle
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help remind

lean flickerBOT
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remind

**Alias: **reminder
Has the bot remind you about things. You can specify a time in a short time format (e.g., 1y, 7w, 2mo, 1h30m) or a long format (e.g, 2020-12-31 23:59 CET) and a message for your reminder text.

:small_blue_diamond: **remind cancel** <id>

**Aliases: **remind delete, remind remove
Cancels the reminder with the given id. Use >remind all to get the IDs of your reminders.

:small_blue_diamond: **remind list** [user]

**Aliases: **remind all, remind show, remind mine
Shows a list of all your long-term reminders and their IDs.
Moderators may specify an additional user argument.

:small_blue_diamond: **remind** <time> <message>

**Alias: **reminder
Has the bot remind you about things. You can specify a time in a short time format (e.g., 1y, 7w, 2mo, 1h30m) or a long format (e.g, 2020-12-31 23:59 CET) and a message for your reminder text.

wraith kettle
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help

lean flickerBOT
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Emoji Stats commands
:small_blue_diamond: **📒 emojistats** [order]

Shows statistics about the emoji usage of the server.
This includes the total amount of the top 10 emoji and emoji reaction uses.
By setting the order parameter to desc you can also view the 10 least used emoji and emoji reactions.

wraith kettle
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purpose level a

lean flickerBOT
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Information about Level A
Level A

Members with this role indicate that they have a level of proficiency in German up to and including A2, which generally means that they are starting out with German or have some understanding of the basics.

Use the corresponding button in #850404908946423828 to get this role.

Enter >faq cefr in #botchannel to learn more about what these levels mean.

wraith kettle
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role

#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
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CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

wraith kettle
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help role

lean flickerBOT
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No command or module called role found.

wraith kettle
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help

lean flickerBOT
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Help commands
:small_blue_diamond: **help** [term]

Displays help information for modules and individual commands. The optional argument term is the search term to use. If no value is provided, the bot will display a list of all available modules. Otherwise, it will attempt to find information about the given term.

wraith kettle
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help term

lean flickerBOT
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No command or module called term found.

wraith kettle
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help module

lean flickerBOT
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No command or module called module found.

wraith kettle
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roles

lean flickerBOT
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Available roles

:small_blue_diamond: Activities
:small_blue_diamond: Activity Permissions
:small_blue_diamond: Admin
:small_blue_diamond: AdvancedGrammar
:small_blue_diamond: AdvancedReading
:small_blue_diamond: Art
:small_blue_diamond: Booster
:small_blue_diamond: Bot
:small_blue_diamond: BotGames
:small_blue_diamond: Bulli's Native Speaker Role
:small_blue_diamond: Bulli's Session Holder Role
:small_blue_diamond: Coding
:small_blue_diamond: Curator
:small_blue_diamond: Dialects
:small_blue_diamond: Food
:small_blue_diamond: GLaD Member
:small_blue_diamond: Gaming
:small_blue_diamond: Grammar
:small_blue_diamond: Helper
:small_blue_diamond: Heritage Speaker

wraith kettle
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purpose grammar

lean flickerBOT
#
Information about Grammar
Grammar

This role is for members of the Grammar group. Members of this group will be pinged with updates regarding grammar lessons. These lessons usually take the form of going over grammar concepts, such as the passive voice, and having exercises related to them.

Enter >sub grammar in #botchannel to get pings about sessions.

wraith kettle
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sub grammar

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faq grammar

lean flickerBOT
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Grammar terms

When learning languages, it's useful to know some grammatical terms.
Note that these are very simplified definitions aimed at giving you a general idea: do your own research if you need details.

  • Adjective: a word that describes a name: the dog is old or the smart kid.
  • Adverb: something that aids the verb or other part of the sentence, or words that don't fall into other categories: yes, I've done it swiftly or he's very good.
  • Affix: a small word piece attached to another word to change its meaning. If it comes before the word it's a prefix: __in__credible, after it it's a suffix: time__ly__.
  • Article: a word that tells you if a name is specific or generic: the apple, an apple.
  • Case: the form of a word depending on its role: he and him refer to the same person, but he gives an apple to him.
  • Clause: each unit that has one conjugated verb. Those before and after the comma are each a clause: Berzi said something, but I didn't understand.
  • Conjugation: the form a verb takes depending on when it happens and who does it: I go, he goes, he went are all conjugations of the same verb.
  • Conjunction: a word that connects two clauses together: he went there but I didn't.
  • Declension: the form a word takes depending on its case: der Mann is a subject, den Mann is an object.
  • Noun: the name of a thing, such as table or dog.
  • Object: the one at the receiving end of the verb, or being affected by it directly: he touched me, she gave her an apple.
  • Pronoun: a word that stands in for a name: he gave me a ring. I like it.
  • Subject: the one that enacts the verb in first person: I saw a dog or a dog saw me.
  • Tense: the form of a verb depending on when it happens: I see: present, I will see: future.
  • Verb: a word describing an action: I go running every day.
wraith kettle
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faq games

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

wraith kettle
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explain all

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Absentive

Aliases: Absentiv

:small_blue_diamond: Accusative

Aliases: Akkusativ

:small_blue_diamond: Adjective Declension

Aliases: Adjektivdeklination, Adjective endings

:small_blue_diamond: AI in language learning

Aliases: ai, chatgpt

:small_blue_diamond: Anki

Aliases: Flashcards

:small_blue_diamond: Beide vs. Beides

Aliases: Beides vs. Beide, Beides, Beide

:small_blue_diamond: Best way to learn German

Aliases: Fastest way to learn, Learn fast, Most efficient way to learn, Learn efficiently, Best way to learn, Learn German fast

:small_blue_diamond: Can anyone teach me German

Aliases: Private tutors, Teach me, Teach me German, Teach German, Private lessons, Private teachers

:small_blue_diamond: Cases

Aliases: Grammatical case, Case

:small_blue_diamond: CEFR levels

Aliases: CEFR, CERF

:small_blue_diamond: Conjugation

Aliases: Konjugation, Praesens, Verbs, Verb conjugation, Present tense, Präsens

:small_blue_diamond: Contractions

Aliases: Verschmelzung, Schmelzwort, Vom

:small_blue_diamond: DACH

:small_blue_diamond: Dative

Aliases: Dativ

:small_blue_diamond: Doch

wraith kettle
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explain all

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Duolingo

Aliases: Duo

:small_blue_diamond: Eszett

Aliases: Scharfes S, ẞ, ß

:small_blue_diamond: FAQ

:small_blue_diamond: Formal and informal speech

Aliases: Sie, Du vs. Sie, Formal, Du, Siezen, Duzen vs. siezen, Du vs. sie, Informal

:small_blue_diamond: Gender patterns

:small_blue_diamond: Genitive

Aliases: Genitiv

:small_blue_diamond: German letters

Aliases: German keyboard, Keyboard

:small_blue_diamond: Grammar terms

Aliases: Glossary, Grammatical terms

:small_blue_diamond: Grammatical gender

Aliases: der-die-das, Genders, Gender

:small_blue_diamond: How long does it take to learn German

Aliases: Time required, How long to learn

:small_blue_diamond: How to ask a question

Aliases: Translation, Homework, hw, questions

:small_blue_diamond: How to get started

Aliases: Starting out, Beginner

:small_blue_diamond: How to join Voice Chat

Aliases: VC-pending, VC pending, Limited Permissions, VC

:small_blue_diamond: How to use writing

:small_blue_diamond: Imperative

Aliases: imperativ

wraith kettle
#

faq hw

#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
pulsar hemlock
#

faq CEFRS

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

inner rover
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
inner rover
#

explain all

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Absentive

Aliases: Absentiv

:small_blue_diamond: Accusative

Aliases: Akkusativ

:small_blue_diamond: Adjective Declension

Aliases: Adjektivdeklination, Adjective endings

:small_blue_diamond: AI in language learning

Aliases: ai, chatgpt

:small_blue_diamond: Anki

Aliases: Flashcards

:small_blue_diamond: Beide vs. Beides

Aliases: Beides vs. Beide, Beides, Beide

:small_blue_diamond: Best way to learn German

Aliases: Fastest way to learn, Learn fast, Most efficient way to learn, Learn efficiently, Best way to learn, Learn German fast

:small_blue_diamond: Can anyone teach me German

Aliases: Private tutors, Teach me, Teach me German, Teach German, Private lessons, Private teachers

:small_blue_diamond: Cases

Aliases: Grammatical case, Case

:small_blue_diamond: CEFR levels

Aliases: CEFR, CERF

:small_blue_diamond: Conjugation

Aliases: Konjugation, Praesens, Verbs, Verb conjugation, Present tense, Präsens

:small_blue_diamond: Contractions

Aliases: Verschmelzung, Schmelzwort, Vom

:small_blue_diamond: DACH

:small_blue_diamond: Dative

Aliases: Dativ

:small_blue_diamond: Doch

inner rover
#

explain all

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Absentive

Aliases: Absentiv

:small_blue_diamond: Accusative

Aliases: Akkusativ

:small_blue_diamond: Adjective Declension

Aliases: Adjektivdeklination, Adjective endings

:small_blue_diamond: AI in language learning

Aliases: ai, chatgpt

:small_blue_diamond: Anki

Aliases: Flashcards

:small_blue_diamond: Beide vs. Beides

Aliases: Beides vs. Beide, Beides, Beide

:small_blue_diamond: Best way to learn German

Aliases: Fastest way to learn, Learn fast, Most efficient way to learn, Learn efficiently, Best way to learn, Learn German fast

:small_blue_diamond: Can anyone teach me German

Aliases: Private tutors, Teach me, Teach me German, Teach German, Private lessons, Private teachers

:small_blue_diamond: Cases

Aliases: Grammatical case, Case

:small_blue_diamond: CEFR levels

Aliases: CEFR, CERF

:small_blue_diamond: Conjugation

Aliases: Konjugation, Praesens, Verbs, Verb conjugation, Present tense, Präsens

:small_blue_diamond: Contractions

Aliases: Verschmelzung, Schmelzwort, Vom

:small_blue_diamond: DACH

:small_blue_diamond: Dative

Aliases: Dativ

:small_blue_diamond: Doch

inner rover
#

faq ai

lean flickerBOT
#
**AI-generated text**

This FAQ explains rules and advice for using text AI tools such as ChatGPT.

🔹 **Server rules regarding this topic:**
  • Do not answer any questions by using AI-generated text.
  • Do not ask for AI-generated text to be corrected.
🔹 **Problems with using AI for answers and corrections**
  • No fact-checking: Tools like ChatGPT are very good at writing texts and often provide answers that sound good, but they are not capable of fact-checking their own answers.

  • Fake information: It’s very common for these programs to make up fake or incomplete information, which is explained convincingly but is mostly wrong.

  • Non-deterministic: The information is also partially randomly generated, meaning that if you ask the same question multiple times, you will usually end up with different answers.

  • No language knowledge: It shouldn't be used for grammar or vocabulary questions, as it doesn't understand linguistics, nuance, or how a native speaker might actually use a given word or grammar point.

  • Missing context: When correcting texts it needs to understand what the writer was trying to express. As such it may miss mistakes or correct things that don't need to be corrected.

🔹 **Reasons NOT to use generative AI for learning**
  • It delays the development of important skills in language learning.
    Relying too much on AI generated texts or solutions may get in the way of learning the necessary skills of language acquisition, such as how to look up words or phrases in a dictionary, using critical thinking, or actually applying learned concepts.

  • AI is not designed to guide learners.
    If you ask an AI a question, it will provide you with information, whereas if you ask a human, they will ideally ask you to show your understanding and offer advice on how to find the answer.

  • AI output requires scrutiny
    AI output must be verified, but beginners to German or to language learning often lack the knowledge or experience to do so.

🔹 **Good uses of AI-generated text**
  • Ask ChatGPT to come up with some story ideas that you can write about.
inner rover
#

faq Flashcards

lean flickerBOT
#
Flashcard Tips

When creating flashcards it is not enough to just have a single german word on one side, and a single word translation on the other side of the card. You want to provide details that match your learning style and help you better understand what the word means.

For nouns

At the very least, include the gender and the plural form. E.g. Der Mann | Die Männer or Der Mann -:er Whichever form helps you recognise the plural ending and any vowel changes. You may also want to add a note for weak masculine nouns. (See >explain N-Declension.)

For verbs

Include the infinitive, the preterite (simple past) and the past participle (perfect form). E.g. rennen | rannte | gerannt or for a separable verb anrufen | rief an | angerufen. For irregular verbs, you may want to list all present tense conjugations. You may also want to include if the verb uses haben or sein as its auxiliary.

For all words

Adding an example sentence is important for helping you understand the usage and context of a word (dwds.de and linguee.com are good sources of example sentences). You may also want to add multiple translations for words that have multiple meanings. E.g. Die Auflage can mean both a requirement, and the edition of a book. You may also want to try picture cues or audio recordings (possible sources for voice recordings include dict.cc, linguee.com, duden.de, and wiktionary.de).

Close Passages

Flashcards based on close passages can be a very effective way to learn new vocabulary. E.g. put Ich kaufe Lebensmittel im [blank] ein. on one side of the flashcard, and Ich kaufe Lebensmittel im *Markt* ein; der Markt, die Märkte - market. This places vocabulary in context to help you understand its meaning and usages, and also provides you with whole phrases that help jolt your memory when trying to remember an individual word.

Recall vs. Reproduction

Flashcards are most effective when they train your ability to reproduce knowledge. I.e. Seeing the word Baum and recognising it as tree is a lot less effective than being able to look at a picture of a tree and know it means der Baum. Taking that a step further you want to be able to also know that that while die Struktur also means 'tree', it doesn't actually mean the plant. When creating flashcards, try to design them with these concepts in mind. E.g. Using minimal or no flashcards that show you a german word and ask you to recall what it means in english, and instead focus on the other way around: giving you an english word and asking you to recall what it means in german.

Other Flashcard Apps

Other commonly used flashcard apps you may want to check out include:

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faq Fastest way to learn

lean flickerBOT
#
Factors that influence learning a language

The following factors (and many others) can influence how easily or quickly you learn German. Remember that everyone is different and these factors will influence different people in different ways.

Native language

As an example, if your native language is English, you may need more time than someone who speaks Dutch.

Previous language learning

Some learners find it easier to learn German if they have already learned a foreign language, or if they have a natural ability to learn languages.

Methods

Some are able to identify what type of learner they are, and leverage that to their benefit.

Discipline and Motivation

Learning a language is fun and exciting at first, but it can be easy to lose motivation and become less disciplined very quickly.

Consistency

Learning a little bit each day every week is generally considered better than studying for several hours, one day per week.

Grammar

The time needed to acquire grammar passively is quite large, so German learners who actively study grammar typically make less grammar mistakes as they progress.

Exposure and immersion

Interacting with native speakers and consuming native content such as the news, magazines, books, movies, podcasts, etc. can help tremendously with achieving an idiomatic usage of the language.

Training each ability equally

Listening, reading, speaking, writing, translating and interpreting are all various abilities associated with language learning. Training these abilities equally is important to ensure that a person can not only pass a language test, but also have the ability to use the language in various contexts while demonstrating great control over grammar.

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faq Most efficient way to learn

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Best way to learn German

There isn’t only one “best” way to learn German, especially since different methods work better for different people. However, this FAQ will outline the main aspects of learning efficiently, which you can cater to your needs.

If you’re a beginner, type >faq beginner in #botchannel to see our beginner guide.

Cover all skills

There are many combinations of activities you can use to study and practice a language. How do you know which combinations are suitable? The key is to make sure you cover each of the main skills with at least one activity. Some activities only train one skills, while some train multiple – either is fine, as long as all the 6 skills are covered somewhere in your studies.

The skills

• Reading
• Writing
• Listening
• Speaking
• Grammar
• Vocabulary

Which resources should I use?

It doesn’t really matter which resources you use, as long as you can follow along, and the information is correct and reliable. If you have any doubts about whether a resource is correct, feel free to ask. You do not need to find just one resource and stick to it – in fact, to learn best, it’s recommended that you use a large variety of resources and switch between them when needed.

Type >faq resources in #botchannel to see our list of resources.

On the next page

• Should I study all these skills every day?
• How much time should I dedicate to studying?

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explain all

lean flickerBOT
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See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Duolingo

Aliases: Duo

:small_blue_diamond: Eszett

Aliases: Scharfes S, ẞ, ß

:small_blue_diamond: FAQ

:small_blue_diamond: Formal and informal speech

Aliases: Sie, Du vs. Sie, Formal, Du, Siezen, Duzen vs. siezen, Du vs. sie, Informal

:small_blue_diamond: Gender patterns

:small_blue_diamond: Genitive

Aliases: Genitiv

:small_blue_diamond: German letters

Aliases: German keyboard, Keyboard

:small_blue_diamond: Grammar terms

Aliases: Glossary, Grammatical terms

:small_blue_diamond: Grammatical gender

Aliases: der-die-das, Genders, Gender

:small_blue_diamond: How long does it take to learn German

Aliases: Time required, How long to learn

:small_blue_diamond: How to ask a question

Aliases: Translation, Homework, hw, questions

:small_blue_diamond: How to get started

Aliases: Starting out, Beginner

:small_blue_diamond: How to join Voice Chat

Aliases: VC-pending, VC pending, Limited Permissions, VC

:small_blue_diamond: How to use writing

:small_blue_diamond: Imperative

Aliases: imperativ

inner rover
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faq Time required

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How long does it take to learn German?

According to the U.S. Foreign Service Institute (FSI), a person is estimated to require 750-900 hours of guided learning to reach B2 in German. However, study habits and other factors can drastically affect this estimation. These factors include your native language, previous language learning experience, the methods you use, your discipline and motivation, consistency, grammar, exposure and immersion, and training each ability equally. You can find an overview of these factors on page 3 of >faq best way to learn.

ℹ *Note*

The term "guided learning hours" refers to time spent learning with a more advanced language partner (such as a tutor), while making use of language materials (tools, texts and other resources). Guided learning hours, while very helpful, are not necessarily required to learn German. Many people learn German by self-studying, however, self-study hours are too variable to measure, and are consequently excluded from this definition and estimate.

inner rover
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faq starting out

lean flickerBOT
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How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
#

FAQ not found. I found the following similar entry: Resources (1)
Select one of the values in the brackets to directly open the suggested FAQ.

inner rover
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faq resources

lean flickerBOT
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faq help

lean flickerBOT
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FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

fresh lintel
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explain all

lean flickerBOT
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See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Impersonal Verbs

Aliases: Unpersönliche Verben, Impersonal es

:small_blue_diamond: IPA

Aliases: Pronunciation, Sound transcription, International Phonetic Alphabet

:small_blue_diamond: Languages in <#221708975698083841>

Aliases: English in #general, Why English, Why is everyone speaking English in #general?

:small_blue_diamond: Lessons

Aliases: Sessions, Activities

:small_blue_diamond: Looking for information

Aliases: correct channel, information, right place to ask, right channel

:small_blue_diamond: Negation

Aliases: Nicht, Kein

:small_blue_diamond: Nicos

Aliases: Nicos Weg

:small_blue_diamond: Nominative

Aliases: Nominativ

:small_blue_diamond: Omission of movement verbs

:small_blue_diamond: Other languages

Aliases: languages

:small_blue_diamond: Passive

Aliases: Passiv

:small_blue_diamond: Past Tense

Aliases: perfekt, präteritum, praeteritum, present perfect, simple past

:small_blue_diamond: Prepositions of Place Part 1

Aliases: Nach-In-Auf-Zu

:small_blue_diamond: Resources

Aliases: Resource list

:small_blue_diamond: Roles

fresh lintel
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faq negation

lean flickerBOT
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Negation

Negations or negative sentences in German are formed with either kein or nicht.

You use kein if you want to negate nouns with an indefinite article or without an article, for example:
(1) Ich besitze kein Auto. (I don't own a car.)
(2) Ich habe keinen Hunger. (I'm not hungry.)

kein is always placed right before the noun you want to negate. Also note that you need to decline kein.

If you want to negate anything else you use nicht, for example:
(3) Ich schlafe nicht. (I don't sleep.) [verb]
(4) Ich habe gestern nicht geduscht. (I didn't shower yesterday.) [verb]
(5) Ich gehe nicht gerne schwimmen. (I don't like to go swimming.) [adverb]
(6) Es ist nicht heiß. (It's not hot.) [adjective]
(7) Ich habe nicht dich, sondern ihn gerufen. (I didn't call you, but him.) [pronoun]
(8) Das ist nicht Peters Fahrrad, sondern meins. (This isn't Peters bicycle, but mine.) [proper noun]
(9) Der Zug kommt nicht um 18 Uhr an. (The train doesn't arrive at 6pm.) [preposition]
(10) Ich habe nicht das Essen bezahlt, sondern die Getränke. (I didn't pay for the food, but for the drinks.) [definite article]

‼ Note that nicht almost always comes before the word it negates, unless you want to negate a verb.
If that's the case, it depends on the tense of the verb and on whether there is an auxiliary verb or not. nicht is placed right after the verb if the verb is in present or past tense. For compound tenses or when the sentence has an auxiliary it is placed before the verb.

🌟 Confused by the terminology? See >ex Grammar terms

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explain N-Declension

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Weak Nouns

Weak nouns are called this way because they receive the same endings as adjectives inflected with weak endings. They take an additional ending -n in every case except nominative singular. This is also known as N-Declension and affects almost exclusively masculine nouns.

Nominativ: der Junge, die Junge__n__
Genitiv: des Junge__n__, der Junge__n__
Dativ: dem Junge__n__, den Junge__n__
Akkusativ: den Junge__n__, die Junge__n__

Some nouns end with a suffix -en to make the pronunciation easier:
der Mensch, den Mensch__en__

Das Herz is the only non-masculine (neuter) noun with N-Declension❣

So how do we recognize these nouns? We can divide them into 3 big groups:

  1. nouns of Greek and Latin origin,
  2. nouns ending with -e (most of these refer to people or animals),
  3. other random German nouns (Mensch, Herr, Student, Nachbar, Prinz etc.)

Another way to divide the groups could be:

  1. nouns denoting male beings in general (der Bauer, der Knabe, der Herr, der Junge, der Kunde etc.)
  2. nouns indicating nationality or religious affiliation (der Chinese, der Russe, der Türke, der Jude, der Katholik, der Protestant)
  3. nouns designating male beings and ending in the foreign suffixes (-ant, -arch, -ast, -ege, -ent, -ist, -oge, -om, -oph, -ot: der Kollege, der Student, der Psychologe, der Polizist, der Philosoph)

der Käse and words ending with -ee aren’t weak nouns.

Genitive of Weak Nouns
You might have noticed from the examples above that weak nouns don’t have the additional -s in genitive like other masculine nouns.
Some exceptions are das Herz and nouns of group 3 that don’t refer to people nor animals (Name, Wille, Glaube, Buchstabe etc.), which take both the -n and -s endings.
Example: der Name, des Name__ns__.

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faq Lessons

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#
Lessons

Lessons
The lessons held on the server don’t have a consistent schedule, because we allow lesson hosts to choose their own times and days. Lessons are held in the Lessons voice channel along with the #lessons text channel. Everyone is welcome to listen to the lessons even if they don’t wish to participate.

You can subscribe to a specific group to get pings whenever a session is announced. The current lesson groups are:

  • Reading: Read and translate German texts together.
  • AdvancedReading: Like Reading but aimed at B2+ speakers.
  • Grammar: Lesson about a specific grammar topic.
  • Activities: Speaking practice, learning games, or things that don’t fit in the other categories.

Subscribe by getting the roles from #850404908946423828!

Lesson Hosting
Lesson hosting is a voluntary role and we welcome any members who are interested to host their own sessions. If you’re interested in running a session, feel free to create a ticket in #report-issue and discuss it with a <@&305455824174710787>.

Even if you feel inexperienced or have no idea what to run a session about, we’re always happy to provide guidance and teach people how they can hold learning sessions.

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faq Nicos

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Nicos

Nicos Weg is a free online program aimed at helping people learn German. It includes video, audio, text, grammar explanations, notes, vocabulary, and exercises. It also includes very useful cultural and bureaucratic information, such as how to open a bank account, while teaching you the relevant grammar and vocabulary.

It’s fairly popular and well-recommended, but keep in mind that you can’t learn a language with only one resource, even if it’s a good one!

You can find the courses here: https://learngerman.dw.com/en/overview/

You can also see various other courses for learners by dw.com here: https://www.dw.com/en/learn-german/s-2469/

versed forum
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faq how long does it take to learn german

lean flickerBOT
#
How long does it take to learn German?

According to the U.S. Foreign Service Institute (FSI), a person is estimated to require 750-900 hours of guided learning to reach B2 in German. However, study habits and other factors can drastically affect this estimation. These factors include your native language, previous language learning experience, the methods you use, your discipline and motivation, consistency, grammar, exposure and immersion, and training each ability equally. You can find an overview of these factors on page 3 of >faq best way to learn.

ℹ *Note*

The term "guided learning hours" refers to time spent learning with a more advanced language partner (such as a tutor), while making use of language materials (tools, texts and other resources). Guided learning hours, while very helpful, are not necessarily required to learn German. Many people learn German by self-studying, however, self-study hours are too variable to measure, and are consequently excluded from this definition and estimate.

steel oracle
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faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
solar veldt
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faq resources

lean flickerBOT
waxen cargo
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faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
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How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
waxen cargo
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
pastel oxide
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help

lean flickerBOT
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Bans commands
:small_blue_diamond: **isbanned** <user>

Checks whether the given user is banned.

pastel oxide
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help faq

lean flickerBOT
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faq

**Aliases: **ex, explain
Provides commands for looking up explanations about popular learning-related topics. Use >faq <name> to see the entry with the given name.

:small_blue_diamond: **faq all**

**Aliases: **faq show, faq list
Displays all FAQ entries that are currently available.

:small_blue_diamond: **faq** <name>

**Aliases: **ex, explain
Provides commands for looking up explanations about popular learning-related topics. Use >faq <name> to see the entry with the given name.

:small_blue_diamond: **faq info** <name>

Displays meta information about the FAQ entry with the given name.

:small_blue_diamond: **faq search** <name>

Retrieves all FAQ entries whose names or aliases roughly match the given name.

pastel oxide
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faq all

lean flickerBOT
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See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Weil, denn, da

:small_blue_diamond: What does GLaD mean

Aliases: GLaD

:small_blue_diamond: What does this word mean

Aliases: Duden, Meaning, Dict, Dictionary, Definition

:small_blue_diamond: Wissen and kennen

Aliases: Kennen vs. wissen, Wissen vs. kennen

:small_blue_diamond: Word Order for Nouns & Pronouns

:small_blue_diamond: Word Order for Verbs

Aliases: Word order verbs, Word order of verbs

pastel oxide
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faq GLaD

green nexus
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Hallo

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faq keyboard

lean flickerBOT
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More alternatives

🔸 Alternatively, you can memorise the altcodes for German characters. Learning them is easier than you might think! Simply hold Alt and type the numbers on your numpad:
ä = 132; Ä = 142
ö = 148; Ö = 153
ü = 129; Ü = 154
ß = 225
🔸 If all else fails, you can use ASCII conventions for the characters: add an e to other vowels, and write ss or sz for ß. For example:
ae = ä
oe = ö
ue = ü
ss = ß
But this is discouraged since it's harder to read and... looks ugly. It is only done in situations where alternatives are impossible (fonts with no unicode etc).

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faq cefr

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CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

tender trellis
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faq duolingo

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Duolingo

Duolingo is a decent resource to start with if you're a complete beginner, but it's neither efficient nor comprehensive!

What Duolingo will teach you about grammar is very limited, and none of the systems they use will help you practise much of it.
You can learn some vocabulary with it, but their method (based on the concept of spaced repetition) doesn't work for everybody, and the way Duolingo teaches is not very effective compared to the amount of time it requires from you.

So, if you find it useful, by all means keep using it, but remember not to fall for its gamification of language learning, and move past it when it stops being beneficial. Ignore the streaks.

In any case, keep in mind that Duolingo is not enough to learn a language, ever.

If you're looking for guidance or alternatives, check out >faq beginner in our #botchannel .

tender trellis
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faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
tender trellis
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
tender trellis
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
prisma sky
#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

copper pollen
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purpose info

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Information about info
info

No information is currently available.

wraith kettle
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
wraith kettle
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
solemn brook
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
tender trellis
#

faq help

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

tender trellis
#

explain all

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Absentive

Aliases: Absentiv

:small_blue_diamond: Accusative

Aliases: Akkusativ

:small_blue_diamond: Adjective Declension

Aliases: Adjektivdeklination, Adjective endings

:small_blue_diamond: AI in language learning

Aliases: ai, chatgpt

:small_blue_diamond: Anki

Aliases: Flashcards

:small_blue_diamond: Beide vs. Beides

Aliases: Beides vs. Beide, Beides, Beide

:small_blue_diamond: Best way to learn German

Aliases: Fastest way to learn, Learn fast, Most efficient way to learn, Learn efficiently, Best way to learn, Learn German fast

:small_blue_diamond: Can anyone teach me German

Aliases: Private tutors, Teach me, Teach me German, Teach German, Private lessons, Private teachers

:small_blue_diamond: Cases

Aliases: Grammatical case, Case

:small_blue_diamond: CEFR levels

Aliases: CEFR, CERF

:small_blue_diamond: Conjugation

Aliases: Konjugation, Praesens, Verbs, Verb conjugation, Present tense, Präsens

:small_blue_diamond: Contractions

Aliases: Verschmelzung, Schmelzwort, Vom

:small_blue_diamond: DACH

:small_blue_diamond: Dative

Aliases: Dativ

:small_blue_diamond: Doch

full bramble
#

explain all

tender trellis
#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

eternal lotus
#

faq ai

lean flickerBOT
#
**AI-generated text**

This FAQ explains rules and advice for using text AI tools such as ChatGPT.

🔹 **Server rules regarding this topic:**
  • Do not answer any questions by using AI-generated text.
  • Do not ask for AI-generated text to be corrected.
🔹 **Problems with using AI for answers and corrections**
  • No fact-checking: Tools like ChatGPT are very good at writing texts and often provide answers that sound good, but they are not capable of fact-checking their own answers.

  • Fake information: It’s very common for these programs to make up fake or incomplete information, which is explained convincingly but is mostly wrong.

  • Non-deterministic: The information is also partially randomly generated, meaning that if you ask the same question multiple times, you will usually end up with different answers.

  • No language knowledge: It shouldn't be used for grammar or vocabulary questions, as it doesn't understand linguistics, nuance, or how a native speaker might actually use a given word or grammar point.

  • Missing context: When correcting texts it needs to understand what the writer was trying to express. As such it may miss mistakes or correct things that don't need to be corrected.

🔹 **Reasons NOT to use generative AI for learning**
  • It delays the development of important skills in language learning.
    Relying too much on AI generated texts or solutions may get in the way of learning the necessary skills of language acquisition, such as how to look up words or phrases in a dictionary, using critical thinking, or actually applying learned concepts.

  • AI is not designed to guide learners.
    If you ask an AI a question, it will provide you with information, whereas if you ask a human, they will ideally ask you to show your understanding and offer advice on how to find the answer.

  • AI output requires scrutiny
    AI output must be verified, but beginners to German or to language learning often lack the knowledge or experience to do so.

🔹 **Good uses of AI-generated text**
  • Ask ChatGPT to come up with some story ideas that you can write about.
pastel oxide
#

faq list

#

faq list

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Weak Nouns

Aliases: N-Declension, N-Deklination, Weak noun

:small_blue_diamond: Weil, denn, da

:small_blue_diamond: What does GLaD mean

Aliases: GLaD

:small_blue_diamond: What does this word mean

Aliases: Duden, Meaning, Dict, Dictionary, Definition

:small_blue_diamond: Wissen and kennen

Aliases: Kennen vs. wissen, Wissen vs. kennen

:small_blue_diamond: Word Order for Nouns & Pronouns

:small_blue_diamond: Word Order for Verbs

Aliases: Word order verbs, Word order of verbs

eternal lotus
#

faq dativ

lean flickerBOT
#
When do I use the dative case?

The dative case has a great number of usages, many of which are idiomatic, but is mainly used:

- to mark the indirect object of many transitive verbs (the indirect objectis that which receives the result of an action)

Ich habe dir ein Bier gekauft.
Sie gibt dem Mann das Buch.
Er zeigte ihm seinen Führerschein.

- to mark the object of some transitive verbs:

Dir fehlen die richtigen Materialien.
Es fällt mir bestimmt gleich wieder ein.
Das gefällt ihr gar nicht.

- after some prepositions:

Ich komme aus den USA.
Komm mit mir.
Ich lerne seit vielen Jahren Deutsch.

The following prepositions are always followed by the dative case:

aus, außer, bei, gegenüber, mit, nach, seit, von, zu

- after two-way prepositions when they do not indicate movement:

Das Bild hängt jetzt an der Wand.
Er joggt im Wald. (he is jogging in the woods)
Sie steht vor mir.

- to show possession, mainly of clothing or body parts:

Ich habe mir in die Finger geschnitten.
Er hat ihr die Nase gebrochen.
Die Mütze fiel mir vom Kopf.

- with many adjectives:

Ich war mir nicht sicher.
Ist dir kalt? (See >ex impersonal verbs for why there is no subject here.)
Er ist seinem Bruder sehr ähnlich.

eternal lotus
#

faq absentiv

lean flickerBOT
#
The grammar of the absentiv

The abesentive takes the form: [subject] + [conjugated sein] + [infinitive of action verb] (e.g. Theo ist einkaufen).
The action verb is typically an intransitive verb, but can also be a transitive verb. It is additionally important to note that the absentiv should not have any local adverbs, or other syntactic indications of absence. I.e. weg and (weg)gegangen are not found in sentences that use the absentive. Additionally, the absentiv cannot be formed in combination with progressive forms such as am Einkaufen, beim Einkaufen, etc. Finally, the absentiv is typically built in the preterite (präteritum) and present tense.
E.g.
Er war arbeiten - He was away at work.
Ich bin pinkeln - I am away peeing.

More information

Unfortunately the amount of information available on the absentiv is fairly limited as it's both only typically used in spoken language, and is a fairly recent development within german language research. Thus explanations in grammar books are scarce, and the absentiv is typically not taught in Deutsch als Fremdsprache classes. However, you can read a bit about the absentiv here in Alle sind Deutschland … außer Fritz Eckenga – der ist einkaufen!, König 2009.

eternal lotus
#

faq beides

lean flickerBOT
#
Beide vs. Beides

Both Beide and Beides mean both, then how to differentiate them?

🔸 Use beide if the items are of the same kind.
🔸 If the items are different, use beides.
- Ich will beide Äpfel!

- Möchten Sie Ketchup oder Mayo?
- Beides, danke.

🔸 With people you always use beide.

🔸 Article or no article?
An article is used when the people described are doing something together.
- Die beiden sind verlobt. (they are engaged to one another)
- Beide sind verlobt. (they are both engaged, each to their own significant other)

Note: other forms of beid* like beidem or beiden depend on grammatical case, see >explain case.

wraith kettle
#

faq

lean flickerBOT
#

:x: The required argument name is missing.

wraith kettle
#

faq nach

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

wraith kettle
#

explain all

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Absentive

Aliases: Absentiv

:small_blue_diamond: Accusative

Aliases: Akkusativ

:small_blue_diamond: Adjective Declension

Aliases: Adjektivdeklination, Adjective endings

:small_blue_diamond: AI in language learning

Aliases: ai, chatgpt

:small_blue_diamond: Anki

Aliases: Flashcards

:small_blue_diamond: Beide vs. Beides

Aliases: Beides vs. Beide, Beides, Beide

:small_blue_diamond: Best way to learn German

Aliases: Fastest way to learn, Learn fast, Most efficient way to learn, Learn efficiently, Best way to learn, Learn German fast

:small_blue_diamond: Can anyone teach me German

Aliases: Private tutors, Teach me, Teach me German, Teach German, Private lessons, Private teachers

:small_blue_diamond: Cases

Aliases: Grammatical case, Case

:small_blue_diamond: CEFR levels

Aliases: CEFR, CERF

:small_blue_diamond: Conjugation

Aliases: Konjugation, Praesens, Verbs, Verb conjugation, Present tense, Präsens

:small_blue_diamond: Contractions

Aliases: Verschmelzung, Schmelzwort, Vom

:small_blue_diamond: DACH

:small_blue_diamond: Dative

Aliases: Dativ

:small_blue_diamond: Doch

#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Duolingo

Aliases: Duo

:small_blue_diamond: Eszett

Aliases: Scharfes S, ẞ, ß

:small_blue_diamond: FAQ

:small_blue_diamond: Formal and informal speech

Aliases: Sie, Du vs. Sie, Formal, Du, Siezen, Duzen vs. siezen, Du vs. sie, Informal

:small_blue_diamond: Gender patterns

:small_blue_diamond: Genitive

Aliases: Genitiv

:small_blue_diamond: German letters

Aliases: German keyboard, Keyboard

:small_blue_diamond: Grammar terms

Aliases: Glossary, Grammatical terms

:small_blue_diamond: Grammatical gender

Aliases: der-die-das, Genders, Gender

:small_blue_diamond: Help

:small_blue_diamond: How long does it take to learn German

Aliases: Time required, How long to learn

:small_blue_diamond: How to ask a question

Aliases: Translation, Homework, hw, questions

:small_blue_diamond: How to get started

Aliases: Starting out, Beginner

:small_blue_diamond: How to join Voice Chat

Aliases: VC-pending, VC pending, Limited Permissions, VC

:small_blue_diamond: How to use writing

#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Imperative

Aliases: imperativ

:small_blue_diamond: Impersonal Verbs

Aliases: Unpersönliche Verben, Impersonal es

:small_blue_diamond: IPA

Aliases: Pronunciation, Sound transcription, International Phonetic Alphabet

:small_blue_diamond: Languages in <#221708975698083841>

Aliases: English in #general, Why English, Why is everyone speaking English in #general?

:small_blue_diamond: Lessons

Aliases: Sessions, Activities

:small_blue_diamond: Looking for information

Aliases: correct channel, information, right place to ask, right channel

:small_blue_diamond: Negation

Aliases: Nicht, Kein

:small_blue_diamond: Nicos

Aliases: Nicos Weg

:small_blue_diamond: Nominative

Aliases: Nominativ

:small_blue_diamond: Omission of movement verbs

:small_blue_diamond: Other languages

Aliases: languages

:small_blue_diamond: Passive

Aliases: Passiv

:small_blue_diamond: Past Tense

Aliases: perfekt, präteritum, praeteritum, present perfect, simple past

:small_blue_diamond: Prepositions of Place Part 1

Aliases: Nach-In-Auf-Zu

:small_blue_diamond: Resources

Aliases: Resource list

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Roles

:small_blue_diamond: Seeing verbs

Aliases: Sehen, Schauen

:small_blue_diamond: So and also

:small_blue_diamond: Stative Passive

Aliases: Zustandspassiv, Statal passive

:small_blue_diamond: Structure of Konjunktiv II

Aliases: KII 2

:small_blue_diamond: Study Vocabulary

Aliases: Unterrichten, Studieren, Lernen, Beibringen

:small_blue_diamond: Swiss German

Aliases: gsw

:small_blue_diamond: Switzerland

Aliases: Schweiz, CH

:small_blue_diamond: Two-way prepositions

Aliases: Two way prepositions, Dual prepositions

:small_blue_diamond: Umlauts

Aliases: Umlaute, Umlaut, ä, ö, ü

:small_blue_diamond: Usage of Freund and Freundin

Aliases: Freundin, Friend, Friend vs. Boyfriend, Friend vs. Girlfriend, Boyfriend, Girlfriend, Freund

:small_blue_diamond: Usage of Konjunktiv II

Aliases: KII 1

:small_blue_diamond: Usage of zu

Aliases: Um zu

:small_blue_diamond: Verbs with prepositions

Aliases: Verb prepositions, Pferd's verb list

:small_blue_diamond: Vorgangspassiv

#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Weak Nouns

Aliases: N-Declension, N-Deklination, Weak noun

:small_blue_diamond: Weil, denn, da

:small_blue_diamond: What does GLaD mean

Aliases: GLaD

:small_blue_diamond: What does this word mean

Aliases: Duden, Meaning, Dict, Dictionary, Definition

:small_blue_diamond: Wissen and kennen

Aliases: Kennen vs. wissen, Wissen vs. kennen

:small_blue_diamond: Word Order for Nouns & Pronouns

:small_blue_diamond: Word Order for Verbs

Aliases: Word order verbs, Word order of verbs

wraith kettle
#

faq Word order verbs

lean flickerBOT
#
Word Order for Verbs

Word Order - Verbs

The placement of the finite verb (or conjugated verb) is very important to the structure of a German sentence. While most other elements in a sentence can be moved, the position of the finite verb is fixed.

🔸 Main clause
A main clause is an independent clause that makes sense by itself. Here the finite verb is always the second element.

Der Mann gibt der Frau das Buch.

An auxiliary/modal verb (e.g. müssen) replaces the original verb (called the main verb) as the finite verb and results in the main verb being placed at the end of the clause. Additionally, the main verb is returned to its infinitive or past participle form, depending on the tense.

Der Mann muss der Frau das Buch geben.

🔸 Questions & Statements
The finite verb is always the first element.

Siehst du den Ausgang?

Interrogative words (or w-words) are considered to be in the zeroth position.

Worauf wartet ihr?

Auxiliary/modal verbs have the same effect as before:

Kannst du den Ausgang sehen?
Worauf habt ihr gewartet?

🔸 Subordinate clause
A subordinate clause depends on a main clause to make sense. It is often introduced by a conjunction as the first element and the finite verb is usually the last element.

Ich bin nicht zur Arbeit gefahren, weil ich krank war.
Du könntest ihm helfen, statt dich nur zu beschweren!

When a single auxiliary modal verb is introduced, it becomes the finite verb and the main verb is placed before it::

Er ist sich immer noch nicht sicher, ob er ihr alles erzählen soll.

If a double infintive is present, it is placed at the end and the finite verb comes before it.

Das ist das Haus, das ich hätte verkaufen sollen.

#
**Feminine words (die)**
  • many words ending in -e (die Nase, die Kiste)
  • words ending in:
    -- -in (feminine professions/roles): die Verkäuferin, die Lehrerin
    -- -ei die Fischerei, die Bäckerei
    -- -schaft die Mannschaft, die Gemeinschaft
    -- -heit/-keit die Freiheit, die Gerechtigkeit
    -- -ung die Bedeutung, die Achtung
    -- -ion die Aktion, die Religion
    -- -ik die Logistik, die Logik
    -- -anz words of classical origin: die Allianz, die Toleranz
    -- -ur die Natur, die Kultur
    -- -tät die Professionalität, die Kriminalität
lean flickerBOT
#

:x: The required argument name is missing.

#
Cases

Cases
German has four grammatical cases (der Fall or der Kasus in German): nominative, accusative, dative, and genitive. A case alters a noun, pronoun, adjective, etc., in some way to mark its grammatical function in a phrase, clause, or sentence. For example, the main function of the nominative (der Nominativ) case is to mark the subject in a sentence:

Ich liebe die deutsche Sprache!

In this sentence, the pronoun ich represents the first person subject and is in the nominative case. Every noun, pronoun, adjective, etc. has form in every case and it is very important to learn all of them. For example, the accusative form of ich is mich:

Die deutsche Sprache liebt mich!

See >explain adjective declension to get started on that. Don't get discouraged by how much there is, it takes some time master.

To see an explanation of the usages of every case, see their individual articles:
>explain nominative
>explain accusative
>explain dative
>explain genitive

#
When do I use the accusative case?

The accusative case is mainly used:

- to mark the direct object of many transitive verbs

Ich lese einen Roman.
Er hat die schöne Frau ermordet.
Sie besitzen kein Auto.

- after some prepositions

Danke für deine Hilfe!
Ohne dich kann ich nicht leben.
Sie hatten keine Einwände gegen den Plan.

The following prepositions are always followed by the accusative case:

bis, durch, für, gegen, ohne, um

- to indicate movement in a particular direction in two-way prepositions

Er steigt auf den Gipfel.
Sie hängt das Bild an die Wand.
Ich gehe gleich ins Bett. (ins = in das)

- by adverbials of time and measurement

A definite length or point in time:
Ich habe den ganzen Tag geschlafen.
Sie kommt nächste Woche zurück.

A measurement:
Das Kind ist vier Jahre alt.
Das Tier ist einen Meter groß.

Expressing distance with verbs of motion:
Ich ging die Treppe hinauf.
Ich lief den ganzen Weg zu Fuß.

- in common greetings and wishes

Guten Morgen/Tag/Abend!
Gute Besserung!
Herzlichen Glückwunsch!

Here there is an implicit verb such as 'wünschen', where the greeting/wish is the direct object.

raven geode
#

faq beginner

iron ether
#

faq beginners

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
past jewel
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
frozen lodge
#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

normal oxide
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
tender trellis
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
zinc forge
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faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
torpid steeple
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#

#

faq

#

faq ceft

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

final spire
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faq duolingo

lean flickerBOT
#
Duolingo

Duolingo is a decent resource to start with if you're a complete beginner, but it's neither efficient nor comprehensive!

What Duolingo will teach you about grammar is very limited, and none of the systems they use will help you practise much of it.
You can learn some vocabulary with it, but their method (based on the concept of spaced repetition) doesn't work for everybody, and the way Duolingo teaches is not very effective compared to the amount of time it requires from you.

So, if you find it useful, by all means keep using it, but remember not to fall for its gamification of language learning, and move past it when it stops being beneficial. Ignore the streaks.

In any case, keep in mind that Duolingo is not enough to learn a language, ever.

If you're looking for guidance or alternatives, check out >faq beginner in our #botchannel .

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

lean flickerBOT
ebon eagle
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
twin brook
#

faq

lean flickerBOT
#

:x: The required argument name is missing.

twin brook
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
twin brook
#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

frank cave
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help

lean flickerBOT
#
Latex commands
:small_blue_diamond: **latex** <content>

Renders the given LaTeX content and posts the result. The provided code is automatically wrapped in a math environment.

:small_blue_diamond: **latexalign** <content>

Renders the given LaTeX content and posts the result. The provided code is automatically wrapped in a math and an align* environment.

:small_blue_diamond: **latextext** <content>

Renders the given LaTeX content and posts the result. If you want the code to be automatically wrapped in a math environment use >latex instead.

tender trellis
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faq duo

lean flickerBOT
#
Duolingo

Duolingo is a decent resource to start with if you're a complete beginner, but it's neither efficient nor comprehensive!

What Duolingo will teach you about grammar is very limited, and none of the systems they use will help you practise much of it.
You can learn some vocabulary with it, but their method (based on the concept of spaced repetition) doesn't work for everybody, and the way Duolingo teaches is not very effective compared to the amount of time it requires from you.

So, if you find it useful, by all means keep using it, but remember not to fall for its gamification of language learning, and move past it when it stops being beneficial. Ignore the streaks.

In any case, keep in mind that Duolingo is not enough to learn a language, ever.

If you're looking for guidance or alternatives, check out >faq beginner in our #botchannel .

tender trellis
#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

soft glade
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faq babbel

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

soft glade
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faq resources

lean flickerBOT
eternal lotus
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explain all

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Absentive

Aliases: Absentiv

:small_blue_diamond: Accusative

Aliases: Akkusativ

:small_blue_diamond: Adjective Declension

Aliases: Adjektivdeklination, Adjective endings

:small_blue_diamond: AI in language learning

Aliases: ai, chatgpt

:small_blue_diamond: Anki

Aliases: Flashcards

:small_blue_diamond: Beide vs. Beides

Aliases: Beides vs. Beide, Beides, Beide

:small_blue_diamond: Best way to learn German

Aliases: Fastest way to learn, Learn fast, Most efficient way to learn, Learn efficiently, Best way to learn, Learn German fast

:small_blue_diamond: Can anyone teach me German

Aliases: Private tutors, Teach me, Teach me German, Teach German, Private lessons, Private teachers

:small_blue_diamond: Cases

Aliases: Grammatical case, Case

:small_blue_diamond: CEFR levels

Aliases: CEFR, CERF

:small_blue_diamond: Conjugation

Aliases: Konjugation, Praesens, Verbs, Verb conjugation, Present tense, Präsens

:small_blue_diamond: Contractions

Aliases: Verschmelzung, Schmelzwort, Vom

:small_blue_diamond: DACH

:small_blue_diamond: Dative

Aliases: Dativ

:small_blue_diamond: Doch

eternal lotus
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faq learn fast

lean flickerBOT
#
Factors that influence learning a language

The following factors (and many others) can influence how easily or quickly you learn German. Remember that everyone is different and these factors will influence different people in different ways.

Native language

As an example, if your native language is English, you may need more time than someone who speaks Dutch.

Previous language learning

Some learners find it easier to learn German if they have already learned a foreign language, or if they have a natural ability to learn languages.

Methods

Some are able to identify what type of learner they are, and leverage that to their benefit.

Discipline and Motivation

Learning a language is fun and exciting at first, but it can be easy to lose motivation and become less disciplined very quickly.

Consistency

Learning a little bit each day every week is generally considered better than studying for several hours, one day per week.

Grammar

The time needed to acquire grammar passively is quite large, so German learners who actively study grammar typically make less grammar mistakes as they progress.

Exposure and immersion

Interacting with native speakers and consuming native content such as the news, magazines, books, movies, podcasts, etc. can help tremendously with achieving an idiomatic usage of the language.

Training each ability equally

Listening, reading, speaking, writing, translating and interpreting are all various abilities associated with language learning. Training these abilities equally is important to ensure that a person can not only pass a language test, but also have the ability to use the language in various contexts while demonstrating great control over grammar.

eternal lotus
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faq contractions

lean flickerBOT
#
Contractions

A contraction (Verschmelzung or Schmelzwort) is a shortened form of a word or group of words created by omitting letters and sounds. Common examples of contractions in English are:

I'm = I am
won't = will not
let's = let us
-'re = are (e.g. we're walking home)

Contractions are often used in German, especially with prepositions and definite articles that take the accusative or dative (never the genitive). For example, zu dem is often shortened to zum, as seen here:

Pferd geht zum Zahnarzt.

Some contractions with prepositions are so common (see below) that they are effectively manadatory in normal speech. Writing the full form has the effect of emphasising the definite article, indicating that you are referring to a specific object. For example:

Pferd geht zu dem Zahnarzt, der ihm gestern empfohlen wurde.

Common contractions in German

These contractions are used very often and are acceptable in formal German.

ans = an das
am = an dem
beim = bei dem
im = in dem
ins = in das
vom = von dem
zum = zu dem
zur = zu der

Additionally, the pronoun es is often contracted when it comes directly after the verb in certain set phrases. For example, the greeting Wie geht es dir? is often contracted to Wie geht's dir?

Contractions in informal German

Contracting the article das to -s in prepositions is very commonly used in informal, spoken German, and sometimes appears in formal German in set phrases.

aufs = auf das
durchs = durch das
fürs = für das
übers = über das
ums = um das
unters = unter das

Contracting the article dem to -m is relatively common in spoken German with almost all prepositions. For example:

hinterm = hinter dem
überm = über dem
unterm = unter dem

Contracting the other articles can also occur, but this is relatively rare.

eternal lotus
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faq DACH

lean flickerBOT
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DACH

The letters D, A and CH are very common abbreviations for the countries Germany (Deutschland, its German name), Austria (Austria, its Latin name) and Switzerland (Confoederatio Helvetica, its Latin name). These abbreviations are found, for example, on licence plates. Germany and Austria also have two-letter abbreviations, which are DE and AT. These, alongside the Swiss one, are used among other things in URLs.

Incidentally, the word Dach is German for “roof”, so the name of the channel #archived-culture-study-visa is a pun: it literally means “living under the roof”, which can be seen as a metaphor for the cultural similarities between these countries.
Despite not included in the abbreviation, DACH may also include other German-speaking countries, especially Liechtenstein.

eternal lotus
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explain all

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Duolingo

Aliases: Duo

:small_blue_diamond: Eszett

Aliases: Scharfes S, ẞ, ß

:small_blue_diamond: FAQ

:small_blue_diamond: Formal and informal speech

Aliases: Sie, Du vs. Sie, Formal, Du, Siezen, Duzen vs. siezen, Du vs. sie, Informal

:small_blue_diamond: Gender patterns

:small_blue_diamond: Genitive

Aliases: Genitiv

:small_blue_diamond: German letters

Aliases: German keyboard, Keyboard

:small_blue_diamond: Grammar terms

Aliases: Glossary, Grammatical terms

:small_blue_diamond: Grammatical gender

Aliases: der-die-das, Genders, Gender

:small_blue_diamond: Help

:small_blue_diamond: How long does it take to learn German

Aliases: Time required, How long to learn

:small_blue_diamond: How to ask a question

Aliases: Translation, Homework, hw, questions

:small_blue_diamond: How to get started

Aliases: Starting out, Beginner

:small_blue_diamond: How to join Voice Chat

Aliases: VC-pending, VC pending, Limited Permissions, VC

:small_blue_diamond: How to use writing

eternal lotus
#

faq how to use writing

lean flickerBOT
#
How to use writing

How to use writing

#writing is intended for texts that need to be corrected. They should be placed inside a Google document to facilitate easy access to the document and in-line corrections of mistakes. Discussion of texts should be done in #corrections.

How to post a text
  1. Create a Google document and place your text inside it.
  2. In the top-right hand corner, click on "Share". A small pop-up should appear.
  3. In the "Get link" window, click on "Change".
  4. Change "Viewer" to "Editor" and "Commenter".
  5. Click "Copy link".
  6. Paste the link in #writing. You must paste this link (and not from the address bar in the browser) otherwise it will not work.
  7. If Discord does not produce a preview of the link, then you may have not done it correctly. Check the steps again. Alternatively, check if you have the "preview links" option in Discord disabled.

You're done! A nice member of the community will take a look at your text. Please be patient as this can take some time.

For a more detailed explanation, see here.

eternal lotus
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faq hw

lean flickerBOT
#
How to ask a question

If you want something corrected, you can put it in a Google Doc and share a link with permission level »can suggest« in #writing .

Don't ask us to translate something for you outright: that takes professional time and effort and we're not here for that. You can try your luck with deepl.com.
For single words, use dict.cc or another dictionary, it'll be quicker.

If you want to know if/how a word can be used, provide some context to help us understand the situation.

Don't ask us to do your homework or exams for you! Show us your best attempt at something and try to pinpoint what exactly you don't understand.

eternal lotus
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faq vc

lean flickerBOT
eternal lotus
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faq time reauired

lean flickerBOT
#
How long does it take to learn German?

According to the U.S. Foreign Service Institute (FSI), a person is estimated to require 750-900 hours of guided learning to reach B2 in German. However, study habits and other factors can drastically affect this estimation. These factors include your native language, previous language learning experience, the methods you use, your discipline and motivation, consistency, grammar, exposure and immersion, and training each ability equally. You can find an overview of these factors on page 3 of >faq best way to learn.

ℹ *Note*

The term "guided learning hours" refers to time spent learning with a more advanced language partner (such as a tutor), while making use of language materials (tools, texts and other resources). Guided learning hours, while very helpful, are not necessarily required to learn German. Many people learn German by self-studying, however, self-study hours are too variable to measure, and are consequently excluded from this definition and estimate.

eternal lotus
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faq glossary

lean flickerBOT
#
Grammar terms

When learning languages, it's useful to know some grammatical terms.
Note that these are very simplified definitions aimed at giving you a general idea: do your own research if you need details.

  • Adjective: a word that describes a name: the dog is old or the smart kid.
  • Adverb: something that aids the verb or other part of the sentence, or words that don't fall into other categories: yes, I've done it swiftly or he's very good.
  • Affix: a small word piece attached to another word to change its meaning. If it comes before the word it's a prefix: __in__credible, after it it's a suffix: time__ly__.
  • Article: a word that tells you if a name is specific or generic: the apple, an apple.
  • Case: the form of a word depending on its role: he and him refer to the same person, but he gives an apple to him.
  • Clause: each unit that has one conjugated verb. Those before and after the comma are each a clause: Berzi said something, but I didn't understand.
  • Conjugation: the form a verb takes depending on when it happens and who does it: I go, he goes, he went are all conjugations of the same verb.
  • Conjunction: a word that connects two clauses together: he went there but I didn't.
  • Declension: the form a word takes depending on its case: der Mann is a subject, den Mann is an object.
  • Noun: the name of a thing, such as table or dog.
  • Object: the one at the receiving end of the verb, or being affected by it directly: he touched me, she gave her an apple.
  • Pronoun: a word that stands in for a name: he gave me a ring. I like it.
  • Subject: the one that enacts the verb in first person: I saw a dog or a dog saw me.
  • Tense: the form of a verb depending on when it happens: I see: present, I will see: future.
  • Verb: a word describing an action: I go running every day.
eternal lotus
#

oh thanks God for the explanation

#

faq keyboard

lean flickerBOT
#
More alternatives

🔸 Alternatively, you can memorise the altcodes for German characters. Learning them is easier than you might think! Simply hold Alt and type the numbers on your numpad:
ä = 132; Ä = 142
ö = 148; Ö = 153
ü = 129; Ü = 154
ß = 225
🔸 If all else fails, you can use ASCII conventions for the characters: add an e to other vowels, and write ss or sz for ß. For example:
ae = ä
oe = ö
ue = ü
ss = ß
But this is discouraged since it's harder to read and... looks ugly. It is only done in situations where alternatives are impossible (fonts with no unicode etc).

eternal lotus
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faq sie

lean flickerBOT
#
Formal and informal speech

You may have heard of du vs. Sie. What's the difference?

Du is informal speech, and you use it when talking to friends, family, children, young people, and on the internet. The verb meaning to be on du-basis with someone is duzen, and you can use it to ask whether it's ok to switch from Sie to du. While talking to multiple people on informal basis, the plural pronoun is ihr.

  • Hast du Hunger?
  • Du bist ein Idiot.
  • Ich komme mit dir.
  • Was macht ihr?

Sie (note that the capitalisation is important here) is formal speech, and it's used with strangers, older people, on the workplace (unless you've agreed to use du instead), and in other formal situations. The counterpart to duzen is siezen. This pronoun can be used both for singular and plural, so, when you're addressing multiple people formally, you use Sie. Grammatically, Sie declines like the 3rd person plural pronoun sie, even when talking to just one person.

  • Haben Sie Hunger?
  • Sie sind ein Idiot.
  • Ich komme mit Ihnen.
  • Was machen Sie?
eternal lotus
#

faq genitiv

lean flickerBOT
#
When do I use the genitive case?

The genitive case is mainly used:

- to link nouns, especially when showing possession

Dies ist der größte Bahnhof der Welt.
Die Hälfte des Kuchens gehört mir.
Es gibt noch einen Strahl der Hoffnung.

For proper names, the order is reversed and an 's' is attached to the proper name as long as it does not end with an 's' sound.

Deutschlands längster Fluss ist der Rhein.

- to mark the object of very few transitive verbs

Empfindliche Haut bedarf besonderer Pflege.
Heute gedenkt die Nation des Jahrestages der Verfassung.
Wir harren einer Antwort.

- after some prepositions

The following prepositions are commonly followed by the genitive case in written German, but usually with the dative case in spoken German:

(an)statt, trotz, während, wegen

Prepositions denoting position are usually followed by the genitive case:

außerhalb, innerhalb, oberhalb, unterhalb, jenseits

A great number of prepositions that are only used in formal German, such as:

angesichts, bezüglich, einschließlich, fernab, infolge, namens, seitens, zugunsten

- by adverbials of indefinite time

Eines Tages werde ich Deutsch beherrschen.
Sonntags sind wir meist unterwegs.
Eines Nachts hörte ihr Vater sie weinen.

Note the declension in the last sentence. Although it is die Nacht, it assumes a similar form as the rest.

lean flickerBOT
#

No command or module called Nominative found.

#

No command or module called Nominativ found.

mint willow
#

help Nominativ case

lean flickerBOT
#

No command or module called Nominativ case found.

mint willow
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help faq Akkusative case

lean flickerBOT
#
faq

**Aliases: **ex, explain
Provides commands for looking up explanations about popular learning-related topics. Use >faq <name> to see the entry with the given name.

:small_blue_diamond: **faq all**

**Aliases: **faq show, faq list
Displays all FAQ entries that are currently available.

:small_blue_diamond: **faq** <name>

**Aliases: **ex, explain
Provides commands for looking up explanations about popular learning-related topics. Use >faq <name> to see the entry with the given name.

:small_blue_diamond: **faq info** <name>

Displays meta information about the FAQ entry with the given name.

:small_blue_diamond: **faq search** <name>

Retrieves all FAQ entries whose names or aliases roughly match the given name.

mint willow
#

faq Nominativ case

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. I found the following similar entries: Nominativ (1), Nominative (2)
Select one of the values in the brackets to directly open the suggested FAQ.

mint willow
#

faq Nominativ

lean flickerBOT
#
When do I use the nominative case?

The nominative case is mainly used:

- to mark the subject of the finite verb

Ich lese einen Roman.
Der Mann hat die schöne Frau ermordet.
Sie besitzen kein Auto.

- for the predicate complement of copular verbs (a verb that links the subject to the object)

Eine Maus ist ein kleines Tier.
Wir wurden gute Freunde.
Du bleibst immer mein Freund.

- for nouns or pronouns used in isolation, such as in exclamations or when addressing people

Ein schöner Tag heute, nicht?
So geht es nicht, du Idiot.
Ach meine Güte!

iron dock
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
mint willow
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

mint willow
#

faq explain all

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

lapis stirrup
#

explain all

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Roles

:small_blue_diamond: Seeing verbs

Aliases: Sehen, Schauen

:small_blue_diamond: So and also

:small_blue_diamond: Stative Passive

Aliases: Zustandspassiv, Statal passive

:small_blue_diamond: Structure of Konjunktiv II

Aliases: KII 2

:small_blue_diamond: Study Vocabulary

Aliases: Unterrichten, Studieren, Lernen, Beibringen

:small_blue_diamond: Swiss German

Aliases: gsw

:small_blue_diamond: Switzerland

Aliases: Schweiz, CH

:small_blue_diamond: Two-way prepositions

Aliases: Two way prepositions, Dual prepositions

:small_blue_diamond: Umlauts

Aliases: Umlaute, Umlaut, ä, ö, ü

:small_blue_diamond: Usage of Freund and Freundin

Aliases: Freundin, Friend, Friend vs. Boyfriend, Friend vs. Girlfriend, Boyfriend, Girlfriend, Freund

:small_blue_diamond: Usage of Konjunktiv II

Aliases: KII 1

:small_blue_diamond: Usage of zu

Aliases: Um zu

:small_blue_diamond: Verbs with prepositions

Aliases: Verb prepositions, Pferd's verb list

:small_blue_diamond: Vorgangspassiv

lapis stirrup
#

faq verbs with prepositions

lean flickerBOT
tender trellis
#

faq beginner

noble flame
#

faq roles

lean flickerBOT
strong marsh
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
strong marsh
#

faq how to join vc

lean flickerBOT
#

@strong marsh, please read the Roles section in #getting-started for info on how to join VC and more.

#

FAQ not found. I found the following similar entry: How to join Voice Chat (1)
Select one of the values in the brackets to directly open the suggested FAQ.

river bone
#

ex beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
final spire
#

geq beginner

#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
grand mountain
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
trim turret
#

faq resources

jolly thorn
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
paper sparrow
#

faq resources

lean flickerBOT
faint herald
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
faint herald
#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

small quail
#

remind 2y Ask Dominique to play Fortnite

lean flickerBOT
#

Okay @small quail. You will be reminded in 2 years.

sick steeple
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
dusk cape
#

faq

eager mantle
#

faq passiv

lean flickerBOT
#
Passive Voice

In English and German, a verb can have one of two voices which describe the relationship between the verb and the subject. These voices are the active voice and passive voice.

Typically, we use the active voice, where the subject is the doer or agent of the action. For example:

The man eats the apple.

In this sentence, the agent (the man) is acting upon (by eating) the object (the apple).

In the passive voice, the subject is the receiver or patient of the action. This typically places the emphasis on the patient or action, and the agent can be left out altogether if it is unknown or irrelevant. For example, the above sentence converted into the passive voice becomes:

The apple is being eaten.

In this example, the patient (the apple) is being acted upon (by being eaten) by an unknown agent.

Vorgangspassiv and Zustandspassiv

German offers two passive forms: the Vorgangspassiv and the Zustandspassiv. The Vorgangspassiv refers to the process of an action, while the Zustandspassiv refers to the state of an action. The Vorgangspassiv is more often used and relates closely to the active voice. See >explain Vorgangspassiv for an explanation of the Vorgangspassiv, and see >explain Stative Passive for an explanation of Zustandspassiv.

See Also

https://bit.ly/2Nqu84t (dartmouth university)
https://bit.ly/3sSXs9A (leo.org)
https://bit.ly/2RyEodX (Passive Voice on Pferd's blog)

tender trellis
#

faq

lean flickerBOT
#

:x: The required argument name is missing.

tender trellis
#

music

lean flickerBOT
#

Täter Intensiv [00:02:51] added to the queue.

lean flickerBOT
#

Gzuz & Bonez Mc - Nicht Satt [00:02:49] added to the queue.

lean flickerBOT
#

:x: No results found on YouTube. Perhaps try again?
YouTube is currently the only supported service, as streaming from YouTube is free.

quaint granite
#

play es gibt kein bier auf hawaii

lean flickerBOT
#

Paul Kuhn - Es gibt kein Bier auf Hawaii [00:03:05] added to the queue.

paper heron
#

skip

lean flickerBOT
#

Skip vote added. 1/3 votes required to skip.

toxic harness
#

skip

lean flickerBOT
#

Skip vote added. 2/3 votes required to skip.

worldly wadi
#

faq cefr

lean flickerBOT
#
CEFR levels

If you see something like A1, B2 or C1, these represent the proficiency of a speaker in a language they're not native in, and are called CEFR levels. They are valid for any language, not only German!
Roughly speaking, A levels are beginners and C levels are experts. Remember that CEFR level are self-assessed and indicative!
You can see more specific names and descriptions on the Wikipedia page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages

🗨 How do I know what level I am?
If the table on Wikipedia is too generic for you, you can try using this one here:
https://rm.coe.int/168045bb52
Just check each column one at a time: if you can do all it describes, move to the next column. Your level is the highest where you can do the most things.

Alternatively, you can use this questionnaire to estimate your level more accurately:
https://www.laits.utexas.edu/fi/sites/laits.utexas.edu.fi/files/Self Assessment Checklist European.pdf

trim gulch
#

help

lean flickerBOT
#
Voice commands
:small_blue_diamond: **nowplaying**

Displays the currently playing song and its remaining duration.

:small_blue_diamond: **play** <prompt>

Queues a song to be played by the music bot. This command will only work if you are connected to a voice channel that has at least two members.
The given prompt can be either a YouTube link or a query that will be used to search YouTube and fetch the first result.
Please note that playing any sort of nationalistic, war-related songs, songs that violate our rules or abusing the feature in any way will get you blacklisted.

:small_blue_diamond: **queue**

Displays the songs that are in the song queue.

:small_blue_diamond: **skip**

Votes to skip the currently playing song.
For a skip vote to pass, more than a half of the members in the currently playing voice chat (rounded up) must vote for the skip.

:small_blue_diamond: **upcoming**

Displays the upcoming song and its remaining duration.

charred socket
#

faq beginner

#

faq nominative

lean flickerBOT
#
When do I use the nominative case?

The nominative case is mainly used:

- to mark the subject of the finite verb

Ich lese einen Roman.
Der Mann hat die schöne Frau ermordet.
Sie besitzen kein Auto.

- for the predicate complement of copular verbs (a verb that links the subject to the object)

Eine Maus ist ein kleines Tier.
Wir wurden gute Freunde.
Du bleibst immer mein Freund.

- for nouns or pronouns used in isolation, such as in exclamations or when addressing people

Ein schöner Tag heute, nicht?
So geht es nicht, du Idiot.
Ach meine Güte!

candid coral
#

.

wheat sandal
#

faq beginner

#

faq cefr

sage jungle
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
somber timber
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
icy cargo
#

faq damit

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

icy cargo
#

explain all

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Absentive

Aliases: Absentiv

:small_blue_diamond: Accusative

Aliases: Akkusativ

:small_blue_diamond: Adjective Declension

Aliases: Adjektivdeklination, Adjective endings

:small_blue_diamond: AI in language learning

Aliases: ai, chatgpt

:small_blue_diamond: Anki

Aliases: Flashcards

:small_blue_diamond: Beide vs. Beides

Aliases: Beides vs. Beide, Beides, Beide

:small_blue_diamond: Best way to learn German

Aliases: Fastest way to learn, Learn fast, Most efficient way to learn, Learn efficiently, Best way to learn, Learn German fast

:small_blue_diamond: Can anyone teach me German

Aliases: Private tutors, Teach me, Teach me German, Teach German, Private lessons, Private teachers

:small_blue_diamond: Cases

Aliases: Grammatical case, Case

:small_blue_diamond: CEFR levels

Aliases: CEFR, CERF

:small_blue_diamond: Conjugation

Aliases: Konjugation, Praesens, Verbs, Verb conjugation, Present tense, Präsens

:small_blue_diamond: Contractions

Aliases: Verschmelzung, Schmelzwort, Vom

:small_blue_diamond: DACH

:small_blue_diamond: Dative

Aliases: Dativ

:small_blue_diamond: Doch

icy cargo
#

explain damit

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

gilded bane
#

faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
fervent egret
#

help

lean flickerBOT
#
Help commands
:small_blue_diamond: **help** [term]

Displays help information for modules and individual commands. The optional argument term is the search term to use. If no value is provided, the bot will display a list of all available modules. Otherwise, it will attempt to find information about the given term.

fervent egret
#

faq

lean flickerBOT
#

:x: The required argument name is missing.

fervent egret
#

faq a1

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

fervent egret
#

explain all

lean flickerBOT
#
See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Absentive

Aliases: Absentiv

:small_blue_diamond: Accusative

Aliases: Akkusativ

:small_blue_diamond: Adjective Declension

Aliases: Adjektivdeklination, Adjective endings

:small_blue_diamond: AI in language learning

Aliases: ai, chatgpt

:small_blue_diamond: Anki

Aliases: Flashcards

:small_blue_diamond: Beide vs. Beides

Aliases: Beides vs. Beide, Beides, Beide

:small_blue_diamond: Best way to learn German

Aliases: Fastest way to learn, Learn fast, Most efficient way to learn, Learn efficiently, Best way to learn, Learn German fast

:small_blue_diamond: Can anyone teach me German

Aliases: Private tutors, Teach me, Teach me German, Teach German, Private lessons, Private teachers

:small_blue_diamond: Cases

Aliases: Grammatical case, Case

:small_blue_diamond: CEFR levels

Aliases: CEFR, CERF

:small_blue_diamond: Conjugation

Aliases: Konjugation, Praesens, Verbs, Verb conjugation, Present tense, Präsens

:small_blue_diamond: Contractions

Aliases: Verschmelzung, Schmelzwort, Vom

:small_blue_diamond: DACH

:small_blue_diamond: Dative

Aliases: Dativ

:small_blue_diamond: Doch

fervent egret
#

faq anki

lean flickerBOT
#
Flashcard Tips

When creating flashcards it is not enough to just have a single german word on one side, and a single word translation on the other side of the card. You want to provide details that match your learning style and help you better understand what the word means.

For nouns

At the very least, include the gender and the plural form. E.g. Der Mann | Die Männer or Der Mann -:er Whichever form helps you recognise the plural ending and any vowel changes. You may also want to add a note for weak masculine nouns. (See >explain N-Declension.)

For verbs

Include the infinitive, the preterite (simple past) and the past participle (perfect form). E.g. rennen | rannte | gerannt or for a separable verb anrufen | rief an | angerufen. For irregular verbs, you may want to list all present tense conjugations. You may also want to include if the verb uses haben or sein as its auxiliary.

For all words

Adding an example sentence is important for helping you understand the usage and context of a word (dwds.de and linguee.com are good sources of example sentences). You may also want to add multiple translations for words that have multiple meanings. E.g. Die Auflage can mean both a requirement, and the edition of a book. You may also want to try picture cues or audio recordings (possible sources for voice recordings include dict.cc, linguee.com, duden.de, and wiktionary.de).

Close Passages

Flashcards based on close passages can be a very effective way to learn new vocabulary. E.g. put Ich kaufe Lebensmittel im [blank] ein. on one side of the flashcard, and Ich kaufe Lebensmittel im *Markt* ein; der Markt, die Märkte - market. This places vocabulary in context to help you understand its meaning and usages, and also provides you with whole phrases that help jolt your memory when trying to remember an individual word.

Recall vs. Reproduction

Flashcards are most effective when they train your ability to reproduce knowledge. I.e. Seeing the word Baum and recognising it as tree is a lot less effective than being able to look at a picture of a tree and know it means der Baum. Taking that a step further you want to be able to also know that that while die Struktur also means 'tree', it doesn't actually mean the plant. When creating flashcards, try to design them with these concepts in mind. E.g. Using minimal or no flashcards that show you a german word and ask you to recall what it means in english, and instead focus on the other way around: giving you an english word and asking you to recall what it means in german.

Other Flashcard Apps

Other commonly used flashcard apps you may want to check out include:

charred socket
#

faq conjunctions

lean flickerBOT
#

FAQ not found. I found the following similar entry: Contractions (1)
Select one of the values in the brackets to directly open the suggested FAQ.

charred socket
#

faq contractions

lean flickerBOT
#
Contractions

A contraction (Verschmelzung or Schmelzwort) is a shortened form of a word or group of words created by omitting letters and sounds. Common examples of contractions in English are:

I'm = I am
won't = will not
let's = let us
-'re = are (e.g. we're walking home)

Contractions are often used in German, especially with prepositions and definite articles that take the accusative or dative (never the genitive). For example, zu dem is often shortened to zum, as seen here:

Pferd geht zum Zahnarzt.

Some contractions with prepositions are so common (see below) that they are effectively manadatory in normal speech. Writing the full form has the effect of emphasising the definite article, indicating that you are referring to a specific object. For example:

Pferd geht zu dem Zahnarzt, der ihm gestern empfohlen wurde.

Common contractions in German

These contractions are used very often and are acceptable in formal German.

ans = an das
am = an dem
beim = bei dem
im = in dem
ins = in das
vom = von dem
zum = zu dem
zur = zu der

Additionally, the pronoun es is often contracted when it comes directly after the verb in certain set phrases. For example, the greeting Wie geht es dir? is often contracted to Wie geht's dir?

Contractions in informal German

Contracting the article das to -s in prepositions is very commonly used in informal, spoken German, and sometimes appears in formal German in set phrases.

aufs = auf das
durchs = durch das
fürs = für das
übers = über das
ums = um das
unters = unter das

Contracting the article dem to -m is relatively common in spoken German with almost all prepositions. For example:

hinterm = hinter dem
überm = über dem
unterm = unter dem

Contracting the other articles can also occur, but this is relatively rare.

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faq present tense

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Conjugation

Präsens (Present Tense)
When you use a verb in a sentence (or clause), you have to conjugate it (change the form) to match the subject of the sentence (or clause).

For example, in English, we write I eat but he/she eats. The verb has a different ending! The concept is the same in German, except German has more endings.

The first thing you need to know in order to conjugate verbs is: which ending fits which subject? Here is a simple verb “trinken” (to drink) as an example:

trinken
ich trinke
du trinkst
er/sie/es trinkt
wir trinken
ihr trinkt
sie trinken / Sie trinken
(Note: the conjugation for sie (they) and Sie (formal you) is always the same)

Vowel/Stem Changes
There are a few variations and exceptions, but the most important is vowel changes (also called stem changes). Some verbs get a vowel change, which only affects the du and er/sie/es forms of the verb. (However, modal verbs and wissen have their own special pattern, which also has a vowel change in the ich form.)

Example: ich schlafe, du schläfst

Other Changes
There are various other differences but I can’t describe them all here, so please read these websites or use Google to find more information: https://www.vistawide.com/german/grammar/german_verbs_present_tense.htm
https://www.thoughtco.com/german-present-tense-verbs-4074838
http://www.dartmouth.edu/~deutsch/Grammatik/PresentTense/Present.html

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future eins

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faq Future eins

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explain all

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See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Imperative

Aliases: imperativ

:small_blue_diamond: Impersonal Verbs

Aliases: Unpersönliche Verben, Impersonal es

:small_blue_diamond: IPA

Aliases: Pronunciation, Sound transcription, International Phonetic Alphabet

:small_blue_diamond: Languages in <#221708975698083841>

Aliases: English in #general, Why English, Why is everyone speaking English in #general?

:small_blue_diamond: Lessons

Aliases: Sessions, Activities

:small_blue_diamond: Looking for information

Aliases: correct channel, information, right place to ask, right channel

:small_blue_diamond: Negation

Aliases: Nicht, Kein

:small_blue_diamond: Nicos

Aliases: Nicos Weg

:small_blue_diamond: Nominative

Aliases: Nominativ

:small_blue_diamond: Omission of movement verbs

:small_blue_diamond: Other languages

Aliases: languages

:small_blue_diamond: Passive

Aliases: Passiv

:small_blue_diamond: Past Tense

Aliases: perfekt, präteritum, praeteritum, present perfect, simple past

:small_blue_diamond: Prepositions of Place Part 1

Aliases: Nach-In-Auf-Zu

:small_blue_diamond: Resources

Aliases: Resource list

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faq praeteritum

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Perfekt
How to form the Perfekt tense

The Perfekt tense is formed by combining an auxiliary verb (haben or sein) with the past participle form of the main verb.

For example, if I want to write the past tense of “essen”/“to eat”, such as in the English sentence “I ate”, I first need to know the auxiliary verb that goes with essen (which happens to be haben), and the past participle form of essen (which is gegessen).

I can then combine them with the usual verb conjugation and word order rules, as such:
Ich habe gegessen. -> I ate. / I have eaten.
Ich habe das Brot gegessen. -> I ate the bread. / I have eaten the bread.

How to determine the past participle?

Just look it up in the dictionary! There are a few general patterns you can also learn about, but a dictionary will pretty much always list the past participle somewhere near the verb itself.

When to use haben and when to use sein as the auxiliary verb?

The basic rules are:
• Transitive verbs (verbs which take an accusative object) use haben
• Intransitive verbs which describe a change of location or change of state use sein
• Other intransitive verbs use haben

This may not be a 100% reliable set of rules, so if in doubt, you can always use a dictionary to verify the correct auxiliary. Also note that there are a few regional variations.

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faq perfekt

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Perfekt
How to form the Perfekt tense

The Perfekt tense is formed by combining an auxiliary verb (haben or sein) with the past participle form of the main verb.

For example, if I want to write the past tense of “essen”/“to eat”, such as in the English sentence “I ate”, I first need to know the auxiliary verb that goes with essen (which happens to be haben), and the past participle form of essen (which is gegessen).

I can then combine them with the usual verb conjugation and word order rules, as such:
Ich habe gegessen. -> I ate. / I have eaten.
Ich habe das Brot gegessen. -> I ate the bread. / I have eaten the bread.

How to determine the past participle?

Just look it up in the dictionary! There are a few general patterns you can also learn about, but a dictionary will pretty much always list the past participle somewhere near the verb itself.

When to use haben and when to use sein as the auxiliary verb?

The basic rules are:
• Transitive verbs (verbs which take an accusative object) use haben
• Intransitive verbs which describe a change of location or change of state use sein
• Other intransitive verbs use haben

This may not be a 100% reliable set of rules, so if in doubt, you can always use a dictionary to verify the correct auxiliary. Also note that there are a few regional variations.

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faq Future

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Bruh

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explain all

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See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Absentive

Aliases: Absentiv

:small_blue_diamond: Accusative

Aliases: Akkusativ

:small_blue_diamond: Adjective Declension

Aliases: Adjektivdeklination, Adjective endings

:small_blue_diamond: AI in language learning

Aliases: ai, chatgpt

:small_blue_diamond: Anki

Aliases: Flashcards

:small_blue_diamond: Beide vs. Beides

Aliases: Beides vs. Beide, Beides, Beide

:small_blue_diamond: Best way to learn German

Aliases: Fastest way to learn, Learn fast, Most efficient way to learn, Learn efficiently, Best way to learn, Learn German fast

:small_blue_diamond: Can anyone teach me German

Aliases: Private tutors, Teach me, Teach me German, Teach German, Private lessons, Private teachers

:small_blue_diamond: Cases

Aliases: Grammatical case, Case

:small_blue_diamond: CEFR levels

Aliases: CEFR, CERF

:small_blue_diamond: Conjugation

Aliases: Konjugation, Praesens, Verbs, Verb conjugation, Present tense, Präsens

:small_blue_diamond: Contractions

Aliases: Verschmelzung, Schmelzwort, Vom

:small_blue_diamond: DACH

:small_blue_diamond: Dative

Aliases: Dativ

:small_blue_diamond: Doch

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faq Absentiv

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The grammar of the absentiv

The abesentive takes the form: [subject] + [conjugated sein] + [infinitive of action verb] (e.g. Theo ist einkaufen).
The action verb is typically an intransitive verb, but can also be a transitive verb. It is additionally important to note that the absentiv should not have any local adverbs, or other syntactic indications of absence. I.e. weg and (weg)gegangen are not found in sentences that use the absentive. Additionally, the absentiv cannot be formed in combination with progressive forms such as am Einkaufen, beim Einkaufen, etc. Finally, the absentiv is typically built in the preterite (präteritum) and present tense.
E.g.
Er war arbeiten - He was away at work.
Ich bin pinkeln - I am away peeing.

More information

Unfortunately the amount of information available on the absentiv is fairly limited as it's both only typically used in spoken language, and is a fairly recent development within german language research. Thus explanations in grammar books are scarce, and the absentiv is typically not taught in Deutsch als Fremdsprache classes. However, you can read a bit about the absentiv here in Alle sind Deutschland … außer Fritz Eckenga – der ist einkaufen!, König 2009.

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explain all

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See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Roles

:small_blue_diamond: Seeing verbs

Aliases: Sehen, Schauen

:small_blue_diamond: So and also

:small_blue_diamond: Stative Passive

Aliases: Zustandspassiv, Statal passive

:small_blue_diamond: Structure of Konjunktiv II

Aliases: KII 2

:small_blue_diamond: Study Vocabulary

Aliases: Unterrichten, Studieren, Lernen, Beibringen

:small_blue_diamond: Swiss German

Aliases: gsw

:small_blue_diamond: Switzerland

Aliases: Schweiz, CH

:small_blue_diamond: Two-way prepositions

Aliases: Two way prepositions, Dual prepositions

:small_blue_diamond: Umlauts

Aliases: Umlaute, Umlaut, ä, ö, ü

:small_blue_diamond: Usage of Freund and Freundin

Aliases: Freundin, Friend, Friend vs. Boyfriend, Friend vs. Girlfriend, Boyfriend, Girlfriend, Freund

:small_blue_diamond: Usage of Konjunktiv II

Aliases: KII 1

:small_blue_diamond: Usage of zu

Aliases: Um zu

:small_blue_diamond: Verbs with prepositions

Aliases: Verb prepositions, Pferd's verb list

:small_blue_diamond: Vorgangspassiv

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faq KLL 2

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faq Kll 2

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FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

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faq KII 2

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Structure of Konjunktiv II

Structure of Konjunktiv II
In the first part, we explained the usage of Konjunktiv II. (see >explain Usage of Konjunktiv II)
Now let’s see how it’s built!
We can create KII through Präteritum - slap an Umlaut on the verb and add the suffixes of Konjunktiv I (or basically suffixes of Präteritum without the -t-).
(5) Ich äße gern mehr, aber ich bin schon satt. = “I would love to eat more but I’m already full.”
(6) Wäre ich nicht arm, ginge ich ab und zu außer Haus essen = “If I wasn’t poor, I would eat out now and then.”
(7) Ich probierte diese Speisen gern, wenn sie nicht ein Vermögen kosten. = “I’d love to try these dishes if they didn’t cost a fortune.”

⁉️ Wait, what?! Isn’t the verb in example (7) in Präteritum?!
Well, yeah, building KII through Präteritum works well with strong verbs, but it doesn’t show in weak verbs because the forms are the same in both Konjunktiv II and Präteritum.

So how do we distinguish between these two?
For weak verb, the würden-structure is used. Würden (= werden in KII) acts as an auxiliary verb with infinitive. The meaning doesn’t change, it’s just clearer what we want to say.
So if we rewrite (7):
(8) Ich würde diese Speisen gern probieren, wenn sie nicht ein Vermögen kosten.
As you can see, würden stays at the second position and the infinitive goes to the end of a clause.

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explain Usage of Konjunktiv II

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Usage of Konjunktiv II

Konjunktiv II: Usage
Konjunktiv II is a grammatical mood that expresses irreality - it describes something that isn't guaranteed to happen.

(1) Wenn ich Millionen Dollar hätte, würde ich alle Speisen der ganzen Welt probieren. = “If I had million dollars, I would try all dishes around the world.”
(2) Wäre ich Mod, würde ich alle bannen. = “If I were a Mod, I would ban everybody.”

Konjunktiv II is also used as a form of politeness.
(3) Könnten Sie mir bitte helfen? = “Could you help me, please?”

And it also replaces Konjunktiv I (see >explain Konjunktiv I) when the conjugation of Konjunktiv I is ambiguous. For example, when it matches Präsens:
(4) Sie sagte, ich brauche sie. ➡️ Sie sagte, ich würde sie brauchen.

Now that we have explained the usage of Konjunktiv II, let’s see how it’s built!
Type >explain Structure of Konjunktiv II to read the second part.

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explain Konjunktiv I

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Nice bot

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explain Usage of Konjunktiv I

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faq KII 1

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Usage of Konjunktiv II

Konjunktiv II: Usage
Konjunktiv II is a grammatical mood that expresses irreality - it describes something that isn't guaranteed to happen.

(1) Wenn ich Millionen Dollar hätte, würde ich alle Speisen der ganzen Welt probieren. = “If I had million dollars, I would try all dishes around the world.”
(2) Wäre ich Mod, würde ich alle bannen. = “If I were a Mod, I would ban everybody.”

Konjunktiv II is also used as a form of politeness.
(3) Könnten Sie mir bitte helfen? = “Could you help me, please?”

And it also replaces Konjunktiv I (see >explain Konjunktiv I) when the conjugation of Konjunktiv I is ambiguous. For example, when it matches Präsens:
(4) Sie sagte, ich brauche sie. ➡️ Sie sagte, ich würde sie brauchen.

Now that we have explained the usage of Konjunktiv II, let’s see how it’s built!
Type >explain Structure of Konjunktiv II to read the second part.

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explain all

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See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Roles

:small_blue_diamond: Seeing verbs

Aliases: Sehen, Schauen

:small_blue_diamond: So and also

:small_blue_diamond: Stative Passive

Aliases: Zustandspassiv, Statal passive

:small_blue_diamond: Structure of Konjunktiv II

Aliases: KII 2

:small_blue_diamond: Study Vocabulary

Aliases: Unterrichten, Studieren, Lernen, Beibringen

:small_blue_diamond: Swiss German

Aliases: gsw

:small_blue_diamond: Switzerland

Aliases: Schweiz, CH

:small_blue_diamond: Two-way prepositions

Aliases: Two way prepositions, Dual prepositions

:small_blue_diamond: Umlauts

Aliases: Umlaute, Umlaut, ä, ö, ü

:small_blue_diamond: Usage of Freund and Freundin

Aliases: Freundin, Friend, Friend vs. Boyfriend, Friend vs. Girlfriend, Boyfriend, Girlfriend, Freund

:small_blue_diamond: Usage of Konjunktiv II

Aliases: KII 1

:small_blue_diamond: Usage of zu

Aliases: Um zu

:small_blue_diamond: Verbs with prepositions

Aliases: Verb prepositions, Pferd's verb list

:small_blue_diamond: Vorgangspassiv

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faq KII 1

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Usage of Konjunktiv II

Konjunktiv II: Usage
Konjunktiv II is a grammatical mood that expresses irreality - it describes something that isn't guaranteed to happen.

(1) Wenn ich Millionen Dollar hätte, würde ich alle Speisen der ganzen Welt probieren. = “If I had million dollars, I would try all dishes around the world.”
(2) Wäre ich Mod, würde ich alle bannen. = “If I were a Mod, I would ban everybody.”

Konjunktiv II is also used as a form of politeness.
(3) Könnten Sie mir bitte helfen? = “Could you help me, please?”

And it also replaces Konjunktiv I (see >explain Konjunktiv I) when the conjugation of Konjunktiv I is ambiguous. For example, when it matches Präsens:
(4) Sie sagte, ich brauche sie. ➡️ Sie sagte, ich würde sie brauchen.

Now that we have explained the usage of Konjunktiv II, let’s see how it’s built!
Type >explain Structure of Konjunktiv II to read the second part.

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Bruh

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explain Konjunktiv 1

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Usage of Konjunktiv II

Welcome to the interactive paginator!

This interactively allows you to see pages of text by navigating with reactions. They are as follows:

:track_previous: Goes to the first page.
:arrow_backward: Goes to the previous page.
:arrow_forward: Goes to the next page.
:track_next: Goes to the last page.
:stop_button: Stops the interactive pagination session.
:information_source: Shows this message.

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explain all

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See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Duolingo

Aliases: Duo

:small_blue_diamond: Eszett

Aliases: Scharfes S, ẞ, ß

:small_blue_diamond: FAQ

:small_blue_diamond: Formal and informal speech

Aliases: Sie, Du vs. Sie, Formal, Du, Siezen, Duzen vs. siezen, Du vs. sie, Informal

:small_blue_diamond: Gender patterns

:small_blue_diamond: Genitive

Aliases: Genitiv

:small_blue_diamond: German letters

Aliases: German keyboard, Keyboard

:small_blue_diamond: Grammar terms

Aliases: Glossary, Grammatical terms

:small_blue_diamond: Grammatical gender

Aliases: der-die-das, Genders, Gender

:small_blue_diamond: Help

:small_blue_diamond: How long does it take to learn German

Aliases: Time required, How long to learn

:small_blue_diamond: How to ask a question

Aliases: Translation, Homework, hw, questions

:small_blue_diamond: How to get started

Aliases: Starting out, Beginner

:small_blue_diamond: How to join Voice Chat

Aliases: VC-pending, VC pending, Limited Permissions, VC

:small_blue_diamond: How to use writing

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faq Genitiv

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When do I use the genitive case?

The genitive case is mainly used:

- to link nouns, especially when showing possession

Dies ist der größte Bahnhof der Welt.
Die Hälfte des Kuchens gehört mir.
Es gibt noch einen Strahl der Hoffnung.

For proper names, the order is reversed and an 's' is attached to the proper name as long as it does not end with an 's' sound.

Deutschlands längster Fluss ist der Rhein.

- to mark the object of very few transitive verbs

Empfindliche Haut bedarf besonderer Pflege.
Heute gedenkt die Nation des Jahrestages der Verfassung.
Wir harren einer Antwort.

- after some prepositions

The following prepositions are commonly followed by the genitive case in written German, but usually with the dative case in spoken German:

(an)statt, trotz, während, wegen

Prepositions denoting position are usually followed by the genitive case:

außerhalb, innerhalb, oberhalb, unterhalb, jenseits

A great number of prepositions that are only used in formal German, such as:

angesichts, bezüglich, einschließlich, fernab, infolge, namens, seitens, zugunsten

- by adverbials of indefinite time

Eines Tages werde ich Deutsch beherrschen.
Sonntags sind wir meist unterwegs.
Eines Nachts hörte ihr Vater sie weinen.

Note the declension in the last sentence. Although it is die Nacht, it assumes a similar form as the rest.

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explain all

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See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Roles

:small_blue_diamond: Seeing verbs

Aliases: Sehen, Schauen

:small_blue_diamond: So and also

:small_blue_diamond: Stative Passive

Aliases: Zustandspassiv, Statal passive

:small_blue_diamond: Structure of Konjunktiv II

Aliases: KII 2

:small_blue_diamond: Study Vocabulary

Aliases: Unterrichten, Studieren, Lernen, Beibringen

:small_blue_diamond: Swiss German

Aliases: gsw

:small_blue_diamond: Switzerland

Aliases: Schweiz, CH

:small_blue_diamond: Two-way prepositions

Aliases: Two way prepositions, Dual prepositions

:small_blue_diamond: Umlauts

Aliases: Umlaute, Umlaut, ä, ö, ü

:small_blue_diamond: Usage of Freund and Freundin

Aliases: Freundin, Friend, Friend vs. Boyfriend, Friend vs. Girlfriend, Boyfriend, Girlfriend, Freund

:small_blue_diamond: Usage of Konjunktiv II

Aliases: KII 1

:small_blue_diamond: Usage of zu

Aliases: Um zu

:small_blue_diamond: Verbs with prepositions

Aliases: Verb prepositions, Pferd's verb list

:small_blue_diamond: Vorgangspassiv

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faq Um zu

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Usage of zu

Usage of ZU
Zu is a word that has a lot of uses.
As a preposition it means “to/towards”. (see >ex Dative and >ex Prepositions of Place Part 1)

But it can also be used to indicate an infinitive/gerund in a sentence, for example:
(1) Es ist schwierig, Deutsch zu lernen. = “Learning German is hard.” or ”It’s hard to learn German.”
As you can see, the zu is placed before the infinitive verb that has no prefix or a non-separable prefix. For verbs with a separable prefix, the zu goes between the prefix and the verb with no space in between:
(2) Ich habe heute bloß vor, Essen einzukaufen. = I only plan to buy food today.

You can also see it in the um...zu structure, where it means ”in order to”.
The um goes to the beginning of the phrase and zu works the same way as explained above.
(3) Wir sind zum Supermarkt gegangen, um etwas Brot zu kaufen. = We went to the shop (in order) to buy some bread.
(4) Ich lerne Deutsch, um mit Deutschen reden zu können. = I am learning German (in order) to be able to speak to Germans.
‼you can use um...zu only if the people doing both actions are the same. So in the examples above:
• in (3) we go and we buy bread
• in (4) I learn and I speak
❌ *ich gebe ihm ein Geschenk, um er glücklich zu sein - This and other weird stuffs are WRONG!
🌟 Bonus: When you want to say in order to, but the subjects are different, you use the subordinate conjunction damit.

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faq

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:x: The required argument name is missing.

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faq beginner

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How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
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faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
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How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
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faq resources

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fervent egret
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faq beginner

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How to get started - Part 2

Please make sure to read Part 1 before starting Part 2!

Part 2 – Beyond a Simple Sentence

1: Conjunctions (coordinating and subordinating)
2: Subordinate clause word order
3: Dative case
4: Dative verbs
5: Verbs with two objects (e.g. geben)
6: Prepositions (accusative, dative, and two-way)
7: Spoken past tense (Perfekt)
8: Written past tense (Präteritum)
9: Genitive case
10: Relative clauses
11: Adjective declension

Tips
  • Make sure to practice writing and reading simple texts
  • Some of these concepts are confusing to start with, so it’s a good idea to ask for help in #questions when you’re unsure
  • You should use a declension chart to help with declension to start with, because you won’t be able to memorize it straight away
  • After you feel confident with creating sentences, you can start learning the adjective declension properly by using the command >faq adjective declension and reading the guide provided
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faq intermediatre

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FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

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explain all

lean flickerBOT
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See a listed FAQ with >faq [name]
:small_blue_diamond: Absentive

Aliases: Absentiv

:small_blue_diamond: Accusative

Aliases: Akkusativ

:small_blue_diamond: Adjective Declension

Aliases: Adjektivdeklination, Adjective endings

:small_blue_diamond: AI in language learning

Aliases: ai, chatgpt

:small_blue_diamond: Anki

Aliases: Flashcards

:small_blue_diamond: Beide vs. Beides

Aliases: Beides vs. Beide, Beides, Beide

:small_blue_diamond: Best way to learn German

Aliases: Fastest way to learn, Learn fast, Most efficient way to learn, Learn efficiently, Best way to learn, Learn German fast

:small_blue_diamond: Can anyone teach me German

Aliases: Private tutors, Teach me, Teach me German, Teach German, Private lessons, Private teachers

:small_blue_diamond: Cases

Aliases: Grammatical case, Case

:small_blue_diamond: CEFR levels

Aliases: CEFR, CERF

:small_blue_diamond: Conjugation

Aliases: Konjugation, Praesens, Verbs, Verb conjugation, Present tense, Präsens

:small_blue_diamond: Contractions

Aliases: Verschmelzung, Schmelzwort, Vom

:small_blue_diamond: DACH

:small_blue_diamond: Dative

Aliases: Dativ

:small_blue_diamond: Doch

fervent egret
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faq anki

lean flickerBOT
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Flashcard Tips

When creating flashcards it is not enough to just have a single german word on one side, and a single word translation on the other side of the card. You want to provide details that match your learning style and help you better understand what the word means.

For nouns

At the very least, include the gender and the plural form. E.g. Der Mann | Die Männer or Der Mann -:er Whichever form helps you recognise the plural ending and any vowel changes. You may also want to add a note for weak masculine nouns. (See >explain N-Declension.)

For verbs

Include the infinitive, the preterite (simple past) and the past participle (perfect form). E.g. rennen | rannte | gerannt or for a separable verb anrufen | rief an | angerufen. For irregular verbs, you may want to list all present tense conjugations. You may also want to include if the verb uses haben or sein as its auxiliary.

For all words

Adding an example sentence is important for helping you understand the usage and context of a word (dwds.de and linguee.com are good sources of example sentences). You may also want to add multiple translations for words that have multiple meanings. E.g. Die Auflage can mean both a requirement, and the edition of a book. You may also want to try picture cues or audio recordings (possible sources for voice recordings include dict.cc, linguee.com, duden.de, and wiktionary.de).

Close Passages

Flashcards based on close passages can be a very effective way to learn new vocabulary. E.g. put Ich kaufe Lebensmittel im [blank] ein. on one side of the flashcard, and Ich kaufe Lebensmittel im *Markt* ein; der Markt, die Märkte - market. This places vocabulary in context to help you understand its meaning and usages, and also provides you with whole phrases that help jolt your memory when trying to remember an individual word.

Recall vs. Reproduction

Flashcards are most effective when they train your ability to reproduce knowledge. I.e. Seeing the word Baum and recognising it as tree is a lot less effective than being able to look at a picture of a tree and know it means der Baum. Taking that a step further you want to be able to also know that that while die Struktur also means 'tree', it doesn't actually mean the plant. When creating flashcards, try to design them with these concepts in mind. E.g. Using minimal or no flashcards that show you a german word and ask you to recall what it means in english, and instead focus on the other way around: giving you an english word and asking you to recall what it means in german.

Other Flashcard Apps

Other commonly used flashcard apps you may want to check out include:

tender trellis
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faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
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How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
stark silo
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faq howlong

lean flickerBOT
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FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

stark silo
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faq how long to learn

lean flickerBOT
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How long does it take to learn German?

According to the U.S. Foreign Service Institute (FSI), a person is estimated to require 750-900 hours of guided learning to reach B2 in German. However, study habits and other factors can drastically affect this estimation. These factors include your native language, previous language learning experience, the methods you use, your discipline and motivation, consistency, grammar, exposure and immersion, and training each ability equally. You can find an overview of these factors on page 3 of >faq best way to learn.

ℹ *Note*

The term "guided learning hours" refers to time spent learning with a more advanced language partner (such as a tutor), while making use of language materials (tools, texts and other resources). Guided learning hours, while very helpful, are not necessarily required to learn German. Many people learn German by self-studying, however, self-study hours are too variable to measure, and are consequently excluded from this definition and estimate.

mystic sage
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sessions

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There are no sessions currently scheduled.

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best way to learn

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faq best way to learn

lean flickerBOT
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Best way to learn German
Should I study all these skills every day?

If you want to study them all every day, you can, but some people may find it easier to focus on particular skills on particular days. For example, on Monday you might choose to do a lot of writing practice, and then on Tuesday you might plan some conversation practice with some speaking partners.

If you try to cover too many different things in one day, then you might be jumping around all over the place and not able to focus on each individual task. It’s also a really good idea to have a different schedule or set of tasks each day to keep things from getting boring. So setting a special schedule or set of tasks for each day of the week - like the Monday writing day, or every Friday you do some grammar exercises followed by watching TV shows, or any other combination you like – is a really good way to go.

How much time should I dedicate to studying?

Everyone has a different schedule and everyone learns at a different pace. It is recommended to study every day, preferably for 30 minutes or more, but taking 1-2 days off is okay. More important is how many hours you study in a week.

A casual pace will be roughly around 5-8 hours a week, a steady pace would be around 10-14 hours a week, and a fast pace (around the same pace as a university subject) will be 15-20 hours a week.

Anything less than 5 hours and you may find it hard to keep improving steadily (but feel free to try it and see how it works for you), while studying one subject for over 25 hours a week may quickly lead to burnout.

How you choose to spread those hours out over the week is not that important; for example, if you have a lot of time on the weekend but not during the week, it’s fine to do short study sessions on weekdays and then dedicate a bunch of time on Saturday and Sunday.

On the next page

• Factors that influence learning a language.

dire lark
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faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
charred socket
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faq word order

lean flickerBOT
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Word Order for Verbs

Word Order - Verbs

The placement of the finite verb (or conjugated verb) is very important to the structure of a German sentence. While most other elements in a sentence can be moved, the position of the finite verb is fixed.

🔸 Main clause
A main clause is an independent clause that makes sense by itself. Here the finite verb is always the second element.

Der Mann gibt der Frau das Buch.

An auxiliary/modal verb (e.g. müssen) replaces the original verb (called the main verb) as the finite verb and results in the main verb being placed at the end of the clause. Additionally, the main verb is returned to its infinitive or past participle form, depending on the tense.

Der Mann muss der Frau das Buch geben.

🔸 Questions & Statements
The finite verb is always the first element.

Siehst du den Ausgang?

Interrogative words (or w-words) are considered to be in the zeroth position.

Worauf wartet ihr?

Auxiliary/modal verbs have the same effect as before:

Kannst du den Ausgang sehen?
Worauf habt ihr gewartet?

🔸 Subordinate clause
A subordinate clause depends on a main clause to make sense. It is often introduced by a conjunction as the first element and the finite verb is usually the last element.

Ich bin nicht zur Arbeit gefahren, weil ich krank war.
Du könntest ihm helfen, statt dich nur zu beschweren!

When a single auxiliary modal verb is introduced, it becomes the finite verb and the main verb is placed before it::

Er ist sich immer noch nicht sicher, ob er ihr alles erzählen soll.

If a double infintive is present, it is placed at the end and the finite verb comes before it.

Das ist das Haus, das ich hätte verkaufen sollen.

charred socket
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faq Word Order for Nouns & Pronouns

lean flickerBOT
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Word Order for Nouns & Pronouns

Word Order - Nouns & Pronouns

The placement of nouns and pronouns in a German sentence is dependent on their case and is flexible, but still tends to come in a particular order. When placed outside this neutral word order, the noun/pronoun is often emphasised.

🔸 Nouns Only
Sentence with only nouns: Nominativ -> Dativ -> Akkusativ

Der Mann gibt der Frau das Buch.
Heute muss der Mann der Frau das Buch geben.

🔸 Pronouns Only
Sentence with only personal pronouns: Nominativ -> Akkusativ -> Dativ

Er gibt es ihr.
Heute gibt er es ihr.

🔸 Nouns & Pronouns
Pronouns tend to go before nouns. If a noun is the topic (the focus of the sentence), then it's always the first element in a main clause and the pronoun does not go before it.

Er gibt der Frau das Buch.
Der Mann gibt ihr das Buch.
Der Mann gibt es der Frau.

If something else is the topic, then pronouns tend to precede nouns:

Heute gibt er der Frau das Buch.
Heute gibt ihr der Mann das Buch.
Heute gibt es der Mann der Frau.

‼ However, a pronoun object (i.e. Akkusativ/Dativ) can also go after the noun subject (and only the noun subject) when confusion is possible. Compare these two sentences:

Heute ruft die Journalistin sie an.
Heute ruft sie die Journalistin an.

They will not be interpreted to mean the same thing, so you need to be careful.

🔸 Other Pronouns
Demonstrantive pronouns (das, der, dies, etc.) always go after personal pronouns, irrespective of case.

Heute gibt er mir das.

Reflexive pronouns follow the same order as personal pronouns (Akk -> Dat) and tend to also precede nouns. Sometimes it can be very important to stick to this rule, as seen here:

Gestern hat er sich mir vorgestellt. (He introduced himself to me yesterday.)
Gestern hat er es sich vorgestellt. (He imagined it yesterday.)

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help

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faq

lean flickerBOT
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:x: The required argument name is missing.

charred socket
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help

lean flickerBOT
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Bans commands
:small_blue_diamond: **isbanned** <user>

Checks whether the given user is banned.

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FAQ not found. Try >explain all.

final spire
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faq how long to learn b1

lean flickerBOT
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FAQ not found. I found the following similar entries: How long does it take to learn German (1), How long to learn (2)
Select one of the values in the brackets to directly open the suggested FAQ.

final spire
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faq how long to learn

lean flickerBOT
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How long does it take to learn German?

According to the U.S. Foreign Service Institute (FSI), a person is estimated to require 750-900 hours of guided learning to reach B2 in German. However, study habits and other factors can drastically affect this estimation. These factors include your native language, previous language learning experience, the methods you use, your discipline and motivation, consistency, grammar, exposure and immersion, and training each ability equally. You can find an overview of these factors on page 3 of >faq best way to learn.

ℹ *Note*

The term "guided learning hours" refers to time spent learning with a more advanced language partner (such as a tutor), while making use of language materials (tools, texts and other resources). Guided learning hours, while very helpful, are not necessarily required to learn German. Many people learn German by self-studying, however, self-study hours are too variable to measure, and are consequently excluded from this definition and estimate.

final spire
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faq best way to learn

lean flickerBOT
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Best way to learn German

There isn’t only one “best” way to learn German, especially since different methods work better for different people. However, this FAQ will outline the main aspects of learning efficiently, which you can cater to your needs.

If you’re a beginner, type >faq beginner in #botchannel to see our beginner guide.

Cover all skills

There are many combinations of activities you can use to study and practice a language. How do you know which combinations are suitable? The key is to make sure you cover each of the main skills with at least one activity. Some activities only train one skills, while some train multiple – either is fine, as long as all the 6 skills are covered somewhere in your studies.

The skills

• Reading
• Writing
• Listening
• Speaking
• Grammar
• Vocabulary

Which resources should I use?

It doesn’t really matter which resources you use, as long as you can follow along, and the information is correct and reliable. If you have any doubts about whether a resource is correct, feel free to ask. You do not need to find just one resource and stick to it – in fact, to learn best, it’s recommended that you use a large variety of resources and switch between them when needed.

Type >faq resources in #botchannel to see our list of resources.

On the next page

• Should I study all these skills every day?
• How much time should I dedicate to studying?

tender trellis
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faq

lean flickerBOT
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:x: The required argument name is missing.

tender trellis
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faq resources

lean flickerBOT
blissful dove
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faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
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How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
deft star
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sessions

lean flickerBOT
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There are no sessions currently scheduled.

uncut zodiac
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help

lean flickerBOT
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Meme 1/2 commands
:small_blue_diamond: **bonk** <member>

Bonks the given member.

:small_blue_diamond: **cat**

Display a random cat image.

:small_blue_diamond: **dog**

Display a random dog image.

:small_blue_diamond: **inspireme**

Displays an AI-generated inspirational quote.

:small_blue_diamond: **patcat** <member>

Pats the given member's cat.

uncut zodiac
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cat

lean flickerBOT
uncut zodiac
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dog

lean flickerBOT
low beacon
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faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
low beacon
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faq resources

lean flickerBOT
trim basin
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faq beginner

lean flickerBOT
#
How to get started

The simplest way to learn German is to find topics you don’t understand yet and search for explanations of them. This list provides you with a guide for which topics to learn if you are completely new to German. Type the topic into Google (or YouTube) and start learning!

Introduction

1: Alphabet (especially ä, ü, ö and ß)
2: Basic greetings (hello, goodbye, etc.)

Part 1 - Simple Sentence

1: Noun gender & plurals
2: Nominative case (What are cases?)
3: Nominative pronouns (I, you, he, she, etc.)
4: Verbs in present tense
5: Definite/indefinite articles
6: Accusative case (for nouns)
7: Accusative pronouns
8: Word order of simple sentences
9: How to ask questions

See Part 2 on the next page.

Tips
  • Always learn the gender of a noun when you learn a new noun
  • Learn to use a translation dictionary (e.g. dict.cc, leo.org)
  • Use >faq resources to see our list of German learning resources
  • For listening and pronunciation practice, try watching movies or videos (incl. YouTube)
  • You can listen to pronunciation for words on websites like dict.cc, forvo.com, and others
  • Practice writing sentences every day (and asking people to correct them)
  • Ask as many questions as possible
  • Don’t be scared to make mistakes!!!! If you don’t let yourself make mistakes, you will never be able to learn German
crisp trench
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@desert muralwhy did you ever stop being neutral

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i thought you were independent from the other mods

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but you are just one of them

desert mural
crisp trench
desert mural
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Idk why you're acting weird. I just asked you about what your job is. thisissmittyirl

crisp trench
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when i talk to you it always feels like you are acting dumb only to report whatever i said to others

desert mural
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Report to who? It's a public chat. People can read everything on their own.

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If you want to say something privately, feel free to DM instead.

crisp trench
desert mural
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Or whatever it was.

crisp trench
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yeah it's a warehouse job i do as a sidejob which is flexible with uni times

desert mural
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Oh okay, and it requires running?

crisp trench
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it requires some speed and i like running and wear my running shoes so yeah

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i try to use it as a workout

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warehouse has long aisles

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and many of them

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need to get the products in the commision fast

desert mural
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Sounds interesting.

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Do you get to use some machines?

crisp trench
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nah in this case it's just physical but the weights aren't that much

desert mural
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Oh okay, nice.

crisp trench
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i do like like over 100 squats and some deadlifts to lift the objects, i mean i try to use the techniques to make the most out of it

desert mural
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Wow, that's a lot.

patent hatch
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purpose

lean flickerBOT
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:x: The required argument input is missing.

crisp trench
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commands

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help

lean flickerBOT
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Generic 1/2 commands
:small_blue_diamond: **getrole** <role name>

Assigns you a role with the given name, removing any previous assignable roles.
Note: Use >sub to subscribe to groups and ping a moderator for the native speaker role.

:small_blue_diamond: **info** [user]

Displays information about the given user. If no user is specified, information about you will be displayed.

:small_blue_diamond: **quote** <message>

Quotes a message in the channel you are in.
As input specify the mention or name of the channel that the message was originally posted in and provide the message id of the message (accessible if you turn on developer mode in your Discord settings).
Instead of channel and message id you may also specify a message link.

:small_blue_diamond: **removerole** <role name>

Removes the CEFR role with the given name from you.
Note: Use >unsub for group roles.

:small_blue_diamond: **roles**

Lists all roles on the server.

crisp trench
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eval
py print('Hello,', input())
Barnabus Sandlers

lean flickerBOT
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:x: No code block was found in your input.

crisp trench
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unsub food

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unsub science

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sub science

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sub food

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unsub questions-2

lean flickerBOT
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:x: Group questions-2 not found.
Try >groups to see a list of all groups or >group joinall to join all available groups.

crisp trench
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help

lean flickerBOT
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Groups commands
:small_blue_diamond: **📒 group**

Commands for the bot's group system. You can use these to join and leave groups.
Group moderators can also start sessions, ping members and manage group membership.

crisp trench
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unsub food

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help

lean flickerBOT
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Meme 1/2 commands
:small_blue_diamond: **bonk** <member>

Bonks the given member.

:small_blue_diamond: **cat**

Display a random cat image.

:small_blue_diamond: **dog**

Display a random dog image.

:small_blue_diamond: **inspireme**

Displays an AI-generated inspirational quote.

:small_blue_diamond: **patcat** <member>

Pats the given member's cat.

crisp trench
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cat

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dog

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cat

lean flickerBOT
crisp trench
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dog

lean flickerBOT
crisp trench
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inspire

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avatar