TOPIC · Prepositions (Präpositionen)

Prepositions used with the Dative in German

A2B1

After this lesson, learners will be able to use the most important dative prepositions in German.

In this lesson, we will explore the prepositions that require the dative case in German. Prepositions are crucial in establishing relationships between words and sentence parts. Dative prepositions often indicate location, accompaniment, or reasons for actions. Let’s dive into the most important dative prepositions:

Important Dative Prepositions

PrepositionUsageExample
ablocalDer Zug fährt ab Berlin. (The train departs from Berlin.)
auslocalIch komme aus der Stadt. (I come from the city.)
beilocalIch bin bei meinem Freund. (I am at my friend's place.)
mitmodalIch spiele oft mit meinem Hund. (I often play with my dog.)
nachlocalIch gehe nach Hause. (I am going home.)
seittemporalIch lerne Deutsch seit einem Jahr. (I have been learning German for a year.)
vonlocalSie kommt von der Party. (She is coming from the party.)
zumodalIch gehe zu meinem Lehrer. (I'm going to my teacher.)
außerconcessiveAußer mir sind alle da. (Everyone is there except for me.)
entgegenadversativeEntgegen meiner Erwartung war das Konzert toll. (Contrary to my expectation, the concert was great.)
gegenüberlocalDie Bank ist gegenüber dem Supermarkt. (The bank is opposite the supermarket.)

Practical Applications

To better understand how to use dative prepositions in German, let’s look at a few examples:

  • "Ich lerne jeden Tag mit Freunden." (I learn with friends every day.)
  • "Wir sind seit zwei Jahren hier." (We have been here for two years.)
  • "Mein Hund schläft bei mir im Bett." (My dog sleeps with me in bed.)

Understanding these prepositions is crucial for proper grammar in German, and they also help you grasp the meaning of complete sentences. With regular practice, you will become more confident in using dative prepositions.