Language
German
Level
B2
Unit
Verbformen und Modi
Practice types
0

What this grammar point covers

The German 'Passiv' (passive voice) is used when the focus is on the action or what happens to something, rather than who does it. The subject of the sentence receives the action.

When to use it

Use the Passiv in German when the doer of the action is unknown, unimportant, or obvious. It is common in news, instructions, and formal texts.

Key forms

  • werden + Partizip II (past participle)
  • Das Buch wird gelesen.
  • Die Tür wurde geöffnet.
  • Der Brief ist geschrieben worden.

Examples

Der Kuchen wird gebacken.

English: The cake is being baked.

Die Fenster werden geputzt.

English: The windows are being cleaned.

Die Rechnung wurde bezahlt.

English: The bill was paid.

Das Auto ist repariert worden.

English: The car has been repaired.

Tips

  • Remember to use 'werden' in the correct tense and the Partizip II of the main verb.
  • The original object becomes the subject in Passiv.
  • If you want to mention who does the action, use 'von' (by) before the person.

Exceptions and edge cases

  • Some verbs do not have a passive form, such as intransitive verbs (verbs without an object).

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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