Language
German
Level
B2
Unit
Infinitiv- und Partizipialkonstruktionen
Practice types
0

What this grammar point covers

Infinitive constructions with 'zu' in German are phrases where you use the infinitive form of a verb together with 'zu'. This is similar to saying 'to do' something in English, but the structure is different in German.

When to use it

You use this structure after certain verbs, adjectives, or nouns to express purpose, intention, or necessity. It is common after verbs like 'beginnen', 'vergessen', 'hoffen', or adjectives like 'schwer', 'wichtig'.

Key forms

  • zu + infinitive (at the end of the clause)
  • Ich habe vergessen, das Buch zu lesen.
  • Es ist wichtig, früh aufzustehen.

Examples

Ich habe vergessen, das Fenster zu schließen.

English: I forgot to close the window.

Es ist schwer, Deutsch zu lernen.

English: It is hard to learn German.

Wir planen, am Wochenende zu reisen.

English: We plan to travel on the weekend.

Er versucht, pünktlich zu sein.

English: He tries to be on time.

Tips

  • Remember: 'zu' comes directly before the infinitive verb at the end of the clause.
  • Do not use 'zu' after modal verbs (können, müssen, wollen, sollen, dürfen, mögen).
  • If there is a separable verb, 'zu' goes between the prefix and the verb (e.g., 'anzufangen').

Exceptions and edge cases

  • After modal verbs and some verbs like 'lassen', 'sehen', 'hören', you do not use 'zu'.

Keep exploring

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