Advanced German
C1 is the fifth level of the CEFR. At this level, you can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognize implicit meaning. You can express yourself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. You can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes.
Estimated study time: 400 hours
What You Can Do
At C1 level, you can:
- Understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts and recognize implicit meaning
- Express yourself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions
- Use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes
- Produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects
- Show controlled use of organizational patterns, connectors, and cohesive devices
- Understand extended speech even when it is not clearly structured
- Read with ease virtually all forms of the written language
- Write clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects
- Participate effortlessly in any conversation or discussion
- Use idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms appropriately
Vocabulary
Master advanced German vocabulary with approximately 8,000-10,000 words covering academic, professional, and abstract terminology, sophisticated expressions, and nuanced language for proficient speakers.
C1 Vocabulary →Grammar
Master sophisticated grammar with near-native command. Key advanced topics include:
Advanced Subjunctive Usage
Complex Passive Constructions
Nominal Style & Nominalization
Participle Constructions
Infinitive with 'zu' (Complex)
Advanced Relative Clauses
Stylistic Variations
Register & Formality Levels
Skills
📖 Reading
You can understand with ease virtually everything read or heard. You can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation.
✍️ Writing
You can express yourself in clear, well-structured text, expressing points of view at some length. You can write about complex subjects in a letter, an essay, or a report, underlining what you consider to be the salient issues.
👂 Listening
You can understand extended speech even when it is not clearly structured and when relationships are only implied and not signaled explicitly. You can understand television programs and films without too much effort.
🗣️ Speaking
You can express yourself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. You can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes. You can formulate ideas and opinions with precision and relate your contribution skillfully to those of other speakers.
Practice Exercises
Practice C1 level German with advanced interactive exercises covering vocabulary, grammar, reading, listening, writing, and speaking.
C1 Exercises →Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to know for C1 German?
For C1 German, you need to master the vocabulary, grammar topics, and skills listed on this page. Focus on understanding and using the grammar structures, building your vocabulary, and practicing all four language skills.
How long does it take to reach C1 level?
It typically takes approximately 400 hours of study to reach C1 level. This includes structured learning, practice, and regular exposure to the language.
What's the difference between C1 and the previous level?
C1 represents advanced proficiency where you can express ideas fluently and spontaneously without much searching for expressions, and understand a wide range of demanding texts.