ein
Meaning and Usage
- ein = a / an / one
Common Usage:
- "Ein Mann" = "A man"
- "Ein Buch" = "A book"
Linguistic Analysis
"Ein" is an indefinite article in German, used with masculine and neuter nouns. It is derived from Old High German and Middle High German.
Comparisons between German and English
The word "ein" corresponds to "a," "an," or "one" in English, serving as an indefinite article to indicate a singular, unspecified noun.
Cultural Context
The use of "ein" is essential for indicating the presence of a singular, unspecified item or person in German, as well as for generalizing about a category.
Example Sentences
- "Ein Apfel" = "An apple"
- "Er hat ein Auto." = "He has a car."
Memory Tips
Associate "ein" with the English words "a," "an," or "one" to remember its meaning and usage.
Additional Vocabulary
Related words: eine (a/an - feminine), einer (one - masculine/nominative), einem (one - masculine/dative)