Separable verbs

Foreign Languages

Definition

Separable verbs (trennbare Verben) are German verbs with a prefix that detaches and moves to the end of the sentence in present tense and simple past. Common separable prefixes include an-, auf-, aus-, ein-, mit-, and zu-.

Examples

  • aufstehen: Ich stehe um 7 Uhr auf. (I get up at 7 o'clock.)
  • einkaufen: Sie kauft im Supermarkt ein. (She shops at the supermarket.)
  • mitkommen: Kommst du mit? (Are you coming along?)
Key Fact

In present tense, the prefix goes to the END of the clause: an|rufen → Ich rufe dich an. In subordinate clauses, the verb stays together: ...weil ich dich anrufe.

Related Terms

Modal verbs Prepositions with dative Daily routine expressions Accusative case

Study This Concept

Practice separable verbs with free review games in these units:

German 1 Unit 5: School and Daily Routine