TOPIC · Prepositions (Präpositionen)

Prepositions used with Dative and Accusative in German

B1B2

After this lesson, learners will be able to distinguish between the use of Dative and Accusative with specific German prepositions depending on context.

In the German language, the use of prepositions is an important but often confusing topic for learners. In particular, prepositions that can take both Dative and Accusative can present significant challenges. In this lesson, we will explore the most common of these prepositions and see how to use them correctly.

What Are Prepositions?

Prepositions are words that describe relationships between certain things or people. They often provide information about location, time, and manner (modality).

Prepositions That Require Both Dative and Accusative

Some prepositions can be used with both Dative and Accusative, but the choice of case depends on the context. Here are the key ones:

PrepositionCaseExampleMeaning
anAccusativeIch hänge das Bild an die Wand.local (where to?)
DativeDas Bild hängt an der Wand.local (where?)
aufAccusativeWir legen die Flaschen auf den Tisch.local (where to?)
DativeDie Flasche steht auf dem Tisch.local (where?)
hinterAccusativeSie geht hinter den Baum.local (where to?)
DativeDer Hund ist hinter dem Haus.local (where?)
inAccusativeIch gehe in die Schule.local (where to?)
DativeDas Buch liegt in der Tasche.local (where?)
nebenAccusativeDer Schlüssel liegt neben die Tür.local (where to?)
DativeDer Schlüssel liegt neben der Tür.local (where?)
überAccusativeSie stellen den Tisch über die Bühne.local (where to?)
DativeDie Lampe hängt über dem Tisch.local (where?)
unterAccusativeWir legen die Matten unter das Bett.local (where to?)
DativeDie Matten liegen unter dem Tisch.local (where?)

Usage in Context

The choice between Dative and Accusative often relies on the meaning of the sentence. Generally, the Accusative is used when indicating movement from one place to another (Where to?). The Dative is instead used when something remains in a specific location (Where?).

Everyday Examples

  1. Accusative:

    • “Ich gehe in die Stadt.” (I am going to the city.)
    • “Wir kaufen die Blumen für die Freundin.” (We buy the flowers for the girlfriend.)

  2. Dative:

    • “Das Buch liegt in der Schublade.” (The book is in the drawer.)
    • “Die Blumen sind für die Freundin.” (The flowers are for the girlfriend.)

Conclusion

Correctly using prepositions with Dative and Accusative is crucial for comprehensibility in German. Practice the examples and try to pay attention to which cases are being used in various contexts in your everyday interactions.