TOPIC · Prepositions (Präpositionen)

Distinguishing the German prepositions of place aus and von

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After this lesson, learners will be able to correctly use the prepositions "aus" and "von" in German.

In this lesson, we will explore the local prepositions "aus" and "von" in German. Both prepositions help answer the question "Woher?" (Where from?), which can make them confusing. Let's examine the differences and correct usages!

1. Similarities

  • Both prepositions are used only with the dative case.
  • They answer the question "Woher?" – where does someone or something come from?

Example:
Woher kommt Julia? – Sie kommt aus Deutschland.
(Where does Julia come from? – She comes from Germany.)

Example:
Woher hast du das? – Ich habe es von meinem Freund.
(Where did you get that? – I got it from my friend.)

2. Differences

Usage of "aus"

ExampleExplanation
aus BerlinWith cities, countries, or continents without an article.
aus der TürkeiWith countries that have an article.
aus den AlpenWith mountain ranges (plural).
aus dem KinoWith closed spaces (cinemas, supermarkets, etc.).

Usage of "von"

ExampleExplanation
von PeterWith the names of people.
vom ArztShort form of "von dem" when referring to professions.
von der UniversitätWith institutions.
von der Insel RügenWith islands.
vom BodenseeWith bodies of water.

3. Special Notes

Some sentences in German can use both "aus" and "von" without changing the meaning:

  • Ich komme aus Lindau.
    (I come from Lindau.)
  • Ich komme von Lindau.
    (I come from Lindau.)
    In this case, "aus" indicates that the person lives there, while "von" suggests that the person has just returned from there.

Conclusion

In summary, "aus" is often used for locations, while "von" is used for people, institutions, or to indicate starting points. To speak correct German, mastering these differences is essential!