TOPIC · Adjectives (Adjektive)

Verbs and Adjectives with Prepositions vor, nach, gegen, unter, um

B1B2

After this lesson, you will be able to correctly use verbs and adjectives with the prepositions vor, nach, gegen, unter, and um.

Introduction

In this lesson, we will discuss verbs and adjectives that are associated with the prepositions "vor", "nach", "gegen", "unter", and "um". These prepositions can have various meanings and impact the structure of sentences depending on the context.

Verbs with "vor"

The preposition "vor" is often used to express that someone or something is being kept away from a threat or danger. Here are some verbs that are used with "vor":

Verb	Example Sentence	Translation
sich schützen vor	Man muss sich vor der Kälte schützen.	One must protect oneself from the cold.
warnen vor	Ich werde dich vor den Gefahren warnen.	I will warn you about the dangers.
sicher sein vor	Die Kinder sind sicher vor der Gefahr.	The children are safe from the danger.

Verbs with "nach"

"Nach" is used to express direction or a search for information. Here are some examples:

Verb	Example Sentence	Translation
fragen nach	Er fragt nach dem Weg.	He asks for directions.
sich erkundigen nach	Sie erkundigt sich nach deinem Wohlergehen.	She inquires about your well-being.
riechen nach	Es riecht nach frisch gebackenem Brot.	It smells like freshly baked bread.

Verbs with "gegen"

The preposition "gegen" is primarily used to express opposition or contrast:

Verb	Example Sentence	Translation
sein gegen	Viele sind gegen den neuen Gesetzesentwurf.	Many are against the new legislative proposal.
protestieren gegen	Die Menschen protestieren gegen die Ungerechtigkeiten.	People protest against injustices.

Verbs with "unter"

"Unter" is often used to describe someone or something in a difficult situation:

Verb	Example Sentence	Translation
leiden unter	Viele Menschen leiden unter Stress.	Many people suffer from stress.

Verbs with "um"

The preposition "um" can have various meanings, often in the context of effort or striving for something:

Verb	Example Sentence	Translation
sich kümmern um	Sie kümmert sich um ihre kranke Nachbarin.	She takes care of her sick neighbor.
sich bemühen um	Er bemüht sich um eine bessere Note.	He is striving for a better grade.
bitten um	Ich bitte um Hilfe beim Umzug.	I ask for help with the move.

Conclusion

Using the correct prepositions with their corresponding verbs and adjectives is crucial, as they can significantly influence the meaning of a sentence. Practice the examples given and try creating your own sentences to deepen your understanding.