Trennbares Verb Glossary of terms

Separable verbs are compound verbs whose prefix separates from the stem in main clauses and is placed at the end of the phrase.

Additional Information

Translations: separable verbs, verbs with separable particles
Related concepts: Präfix, Verbstamm, Wortstellung, Konjugation

Detailed Explanation

Separable verbs in German consist of two parts: a prefix (usually a preposition or adverb) and a verb stem. In main clauses, the prefix separates from the stem and is placed at the end of the sentence. Conjugation affects only the verb stem, while the prefix maintains its original form.

In compound tenses and subordinate clauses, the verb remains joined. This concept is fundamental for sentence construction in German and requires practice to master.

Usage examples of "Trennbares Verb"

📝 Some usage examples:

Ich rufe meinen Freund an.The verb 'anrufen' (to call on the phone) separates. 'Rufe' is the conjugated stem and 'an' is the prefix that goes to the end.
Sie fängt um 8 Uhr an zu arbeiten.The verb 'anfangen' (to begin) separates. 'Fängt' is the conjugated stem and 'an' is the prefix at the end.
Wir haben gestern eingekauft.In the Perfekt tense, the verb 'einkaufen' (to shop) does not separate and the participle includes the prefix 'ein-'.

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