20.3. Basic verbs in German: Modal verbs

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German, like any other language, has a number of verbs that are absolutely essential for basic communication. Among the most important are modal verbs, which are used to express ability, need, desire, possibility, permission, or obligation. In this chapter, we'll explore basic German modal verbs and how to use them correctly.

1. Können (be able to, power)

The verb "können" is used to express ability or possibility. It is conjugated as follows: Ich kann, du kannst, er/sie/es kann, wir können, ihr könnt, sie/Sie können. For example, "Ich kann Deutsch sprechen" means "I can speak German".

2. Müssen (duty, have to)

"Müssen" is used to express obligation or necessity. The conjugations are: Ich muss, du musst, er/sie/es muss, wir müssen, ihr müsst, sie/Sie müssen. For example, "Du musst das Buch lesen" means "You have to read the book".

3. Wollen (to want)

We use "wollen" to express will or desire. The conjugations are: Ich will, du willst, er/sie/es will, wir wollen, ihr wollt, sie/Sie wollen. For example, "Ich will ein Bier" means "I want a beer".

4. Sollen (duty)

"Sollen" is used to express a duty or an obligation that comes from an external authority or a social expectation. The conjugations are: Ich soll, du sollst, er/sie/es soll, wir sollen, ihr sollt, sie/Sie sollen. For example, "Wir sollen die Hausaufgaben machen" means "We must do our homework".

5. Dürfen (to be able, to have permission)

"Dürfen" is used to express permission. The conjugations are: Ich darf, du darfst, er/sie/es darf, wir dürfen, ihr dürft, sie/Sie dürfen. For example, "Du darfst das Auto fahren" means "You can drive the car".

6. Mögen (like)

"Mögen" is used to express taste or preference. The conjugations are: Ich mag, du magst, er/sie/es mag, wir mögen, ihr mögt, sie/Sie mögen. For example, "Ich mag Schokolade" means "I like chocolate".

It is important to note that modal verbs in German are used together with the infinitive of the main verb, which is placed at the end of the sentence. For example, "Ich kann schwimmen" (I can swim), "Du musst lernen" (You have to study), "Wir wollen spielen" (We want to play).

Modal verbs are a crucial part of any German student's German grammar and vocabulary. They allow expressing a wide range of feelings, desires and needs, and are used very frequently in everyday communication. Therefore, it is essential to master its use in order to become fluent in German.

While it might seem a little tricky at first, with practice and repetition, you'll be able to use modal verbs in German with confidence and accuracy. Remember, practice is key to mastering any language, so keep practicing and you'll see improvements in no time.

We hope this chapter has been helpful for you to understand and use modal verbs in German. In the next chapter, we'll explore other important aspects of German grammar. Until then, keep practicing and good luck on your German learning journey!

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2420.4. Basic German Verbs: Reflexive Verbs