Infinitive
The infinitive is the base form of a verb (e.g., 'lernen' - to learn). In German, infinitives can be used with or without 'zu'.
Understanding when to use 'zu' with the infinitive is important for correct German grammar.
This lesson covers how to use infinitives in German.
Explanation
Infinitives without 'zu': After modal verbs (können, müssen, sollen, wollen, dürfen, mögen) and some other verbs: 'Ich kann lernen' (I can learn).
Infinitives with 'zu': After most other verbs: 'Ich beginne zu lernen' (I begin to learn), 'Es ist schwer zu verstehen' (It is hard to understand).
With separable verbs, 'zu' goes between the prefix and the verb: 'anfangen' → 'anzufangen' (to begin).
The infinitive can be used as a noun: 'Das Lernen ist wichtig' (Learning is important).
Infinitive Usage
| Type | Example | Translation | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Without 'zu' (modal verbs) | Ich kann lernen | I can learn | After modal verbs |
| With 'zu' | Ich beginne zu lernen | I begin to learn | After most verbs |
| Separable verb with 'zu' | Ich fange an zu lernen | I begin to learn | 'zu' between prefix and verb |
| Infinitive as noun | Das Lernen ist wichtig | Learning is important | Capitalized and neuter |
Examples
Ich kann Deutsch lernen.
I can learn German.
Er beginnt zu arbeiten.
He begins to work.
Es ist schwer zu verstehen.
It is hard to understand.
Ich fange an zu lernen.
I begin to learn.
Das Lesen macht Spaß.
Reading is fun.
Common Mistakes
Ich kann zu lernen
Ich kann lernen
After modal verbs, don't use 'zu'. Just use the infinitive: 'lernen', not 'zu lernen'.
Ich beginne lernen
Ich beginne zu lernen
After 'beginnen', use 'zu' with the infinitive: 'zu lernen', not just 'lernen'.
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding with interactive exercises. Practice makes perfect!
Start Exercises →Related Topics
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which article to use?
German articles (der, die, das) depend on the gender of the noun. While there are some patterns, many nouns must be memorized. Practice and exposure to German will help you learn them naturally.
What's the difference between definite and indefinite articles?
Definite articles (der, die, das) mean 'the' and refer to specific things. Indefinite articles (ein, eine) mean 'a/an' and refer to non-specific things. Both must match the noun's gender: use 'ein' for masculine/neuter and 'eine' for feminine.
Are there rules for determining noun gender?
While there are some helpful patterns (e.g., words ending in -ung are usually feminine), there are many exceptions. The best approach is to learn nouns with their articles from the beginning.
What happens if I use the wrong article?
While using the wrong article is a common mistake, native speakers will usually still understand you. However, using the correct article is important for sounding natural and fluent in German.