Language
German
Level
A0
Unit
Hilfswörter und Grundverben
Practice types
0

What this grammar point covers

The verb 'sein' is the core helper and main verb in German for identity, condition, and simple statements. It is similar to 'be' in English.

When to use it

Use 'sein' to say who someone is, what something is, or how someone feels.

Key forms

  • ich bin
  • du bist / ihr seid / wir sind / sie sind
  • er/sie/es ist
  • bin nicht / ist nicht / sind nicht

Examples

Ich bin bereit.

English: I am ready.

Sie ist meine Lehrerin.

English: She is my teacher.

Sie sind zu Hause.

English: They are at home.

Wir sind nicht spät.

English: We are not late.

Tips

  • Choose bin, bist, ist, sind, or seid based on the subject.
  • Use contractions in spoken German: ich bin -> ich bin's (rare, informal).
  • At A0, focus on meaning and basic forms first.

Exceptions and edge cases

  • In short answers, German often omits 'sein': Ist er bereit? Ja.

Verify this grammar point in German reference sources

Cross-check the rule and examples in established native references. Each link opens in a new tab.

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