geben
Meaning and Usage
"Geben" means "to give" in German. It is a common verb used to express the action of giving something to someone.
Linguistic Analysis
"Ge-" is the prefix indicating the action of giving, while "-en" is the infinitive ending for verbs in German. The word comes from the Middle High German word "geben."
Comparisons between German and English
The English equivalent of "geben" is "to give." Both words share a common Indo-European root.
Cultural Context
In German culture, the act of giving gifts or assistance is highly valued, and "geben" is an essential word in everyday communication.
Example Sentences
- Kannst du mir bitte helfen? - Nein, ich kann nicht helfen. - Warum nicht? - Weil ich kein Geld geben habe. (Can you please help me? - No, I can't help. - Why not? - Because I don't have any money to give.)
- Ich gebe dir das Buch. (I'll give you the book.)
Memory Tips
Associate "geben" with the English word "give" and its meaning.
Additional Vocabulary
Synonyms: schenken (to give as a gift), überreichen (to hand over) Antonyms: nehmen (to take), zurückhalten (to withhold)
Conjugation (for verbs)
Ich gebe (I give) Du gibst (You give) Er/sie/es gibt (He/she/it gives) Wir geben (We give) Ihr gebt (You (plural) give) Sie geben (They give)