German grammar: Negationsartikel

What this grammar point covers

The Negationsartikel in German is a special article used to make nouns negative. It is similar to saying 'no' or 'not any' in front of a noun.

When to use it

Use the Negationsartikel 'kein' to say that there is none of something or that you do not have something. It is used before nouns instead of 'ein' or no article, especially with things you cannot count or do not have.

Key forms

• kein (masculine/neuter, nominative)
• keine (feminine/plural, nominative)
• keinen (masculine, accusative)
• keinem/keiner/keinen (dative forms)

Examples

Tips

• Remember: 'kein' is used with nouns, not with verbs or adjectives.
• 'kein' takes the same endings as 'ein', so learn the forms together.
• Do not use 'nicht' directly before a noun without an article—use 'kein' instead.