Places 1 · 923b38131d52e6d0276a7e9f725468c6
Ein vs Einen
When the word ein is part of the noun receiving the action (for example, I ate an apple), you need to use the accusative endings. It’s like how der words also change their endings!
| Action Doer | Action Recipient |
|---|---|
| ein eine ein |
einen eine ein |
| der die das die |
den die das die |
Notice that for both of these groups, just the masculine words change!
Looking in the mirror!
Usually after a verb, you use accusative der word and ein word endings.
Er isst den Apfel.
He eats the apple.
Er hat einen Garten.
He has a garden.
But with forms of sein (ich bin, du bist, and so on), you don’t need accusative endings for the second noun!
Der Mann ist mein Vater.
The man is my father.
Das ist ein Garten.
That is a garden.
If we ask What is a garden? The answer is that! If we ask What is that? The answer is a garden! Sein is like a mirror or an equal sign. Both nouns on each side each use the basic der word and ein word endings.
In the City
Dieses Schloss ist schön.This castle is pretty.
Many cities in the German‑speaking realm have grown from villages that once surrounded small castles and fortresses. The historical section is often called die Altstadt. Traditionally, you can visit the Marktplatz, where you can buy fresh produce, cheeses, meats, flowers, and more!