bei
Meaning and Usage
- bei = at / with / by
Common Usage:
- "Ich bin bei dir." = "I am with you."
- "Er arbeitet bei einer Bank." = "He works at a bank."
Linguistic Analysis
"Bei" is a preposition used to indicate location, company, association, or proximity. Its etymology can be traced back to Middle High German and Old High German.
Comparisons between German and English
The word "bei" can correspond to "at," "with," or "by" in English, depending on the context of its usage.
Cultural Context
The use of "bei" is integral to expressing physical or relational proximity in German, as well as specifying association or employment.
Example Sentences
- "Er sitzt bei seinem Bruder." = "He is sitting with his brother."
- "Ich bin bei meinen Eltern." = "I am at my parents' house."
Memory Tips
Associate "bei" with the English words "at," "with," or "by" to remember its meaning and usage.
Additional Vocabulary
Related words: neben (next to), unter (under), über (above/over)