TOPIC · Verbs (Verben)

Distinguishing the meanings of the verb "geben" when combined with different prefixes

A2B1B2

After this lesson, learners will be able to understand and use the various meanings of the verb "geben" with its prefixes.

Introduction

The verb "geben" is a crucial and versatile word in German. Its basic meaning is "to give" or "to hand over," but it takes on many nuances when combined with different prefixes. Each prefix adds a distinct meaning to the verb. In this lesson, we will explore the various combinations of "geben" with their meanings and sentences.

Base Form of "geben"

"Geben" can be used in different contexts:

  • Er bat mich, ihm das Buch zu geben. (He asked me to give him the book.)
  • Es wird heute noch Regen geben. (There will still be rain today.)
  • Gibt es jemanden, der mir helfen kann? (Is there someone who can help me?)

Meanings of "geben" with Different Prefixes

Here are some important prefixes combined with "geben":

PrefixMeaningExampleTranslation
ab-to submit / hand inSie hat ihre Hausarbeit schon abgegeben.She has already submitted her homework.
an-to indicate / boastHat die Zeitung ihre Quellen angegeben?Did the newspaper cite its sources?
aus-to spend moneyWie viel hast du gestern ausgegeben?How much did you spend yesterday?
bekannt-to announceWann gibt er die Ergebnisse bekannt?When will he announce the results?
ein-to enterBeim Bankautomat muss man seine PIN eingeben.At the ATM, you must enter your PIN.
frei-to releaseDie Datei wurde für alle Benutzer freigegeben.The file has been released for all users.
zu-to admit / acknowledgeDu hast die ganze Schokolade aufgegessen! Gib es zu!You ate almost all the chocolate! Admit it!
vor-to specifyDer Lehrer gibt vor, wie viele Seiten wir schreiben sollen.The teacher specifies how many pages we should write.
ver-to forgiveVergeben ist leichter als Vergessen.Forgiving is easier than forgetting.
weiter-to pass onEr gibt die Kleidung weiter, die ihm zu klein ist.He passes on the clothes that are too small for him.
wieder-to rephraseKönnen Sie die Infos in eigenen Worten wiedergeben?Can you rephrase the information in your own words?
sich über-to vomitWenn man zu viel Alkohol trinkt, übergibt man sich.If you drink too much alcohol, you'll throw up.

Conclusion

Understanding the meanings of these combinations is crucial for improving your grasp of the German language. The verb "geben" is widely used in various everyday situations, and knowing these prefixes will help you express yourself more richly and communicate more accurately.