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Teaching guidelines +/- 15 minutes

Master the difference between „es gibt“ (there is/are) to express existence, and „sein“ (to be) for location or state, with examples like „Es gibt einen Garten“ and „Der Garten ist groß.“
  1. If you want to express that something exists → es gibt
  2. When you want to express where or how something is → sein
Ausdruck (expression)Benutzung (Usage)Beispiele (Examples)
„Es gibt“Existenz / Verfügbarkeit (existence / availability)
 Es gibt einen Garten.
 Es gibt eine Küche im Haus.
 Es gibt viele Zimmer.
„Sein“Ort / Zustand (Place / State)
Der Garten ist groß.
Die Küche ist im Haus.
Die Zimmer sind groß.

Exceptions!

  1. With "es gibt" the accusative case is always used.

Exercise 1: Multiple Choice

Instruction: Choose the correct solution

1. Es ___ ein Sofa im Wohnzimmer.

(There ___ a sofa in the living room.)

2. Der Esstisch ___ neben dem Fenster.

(The dining table ___ next to the window.)

3. Es ___ einen Schreibtisch im Zimmer.

(There ___ a desk in the room.)

4. Das Bett ___ unter dem Fenster.

(The bed ___ under the window.)

5. Es ___ drei Stühle im Esszimmer.

(There ___ three chairs in the dining room.)

6. Der Schrank ___ neben der Tür.

(The wardrobe ___ next to the door.)

Understanding "Es gibt" and "sein" in German

This lesson focuses on two essential expressions in German: "Es gibt" and "sein." Both are used frequently to describe existence and states, but they serve different purposes and grammatical functions. Mastering their use is crucial for beginners at the A1 level to form correct and meaningful sentences.

What Does "Es gibt" Mean?

"Es gibt" translates to "there is" or "there are" in English and is used to indicate the existence or availability of something. For example:

  • Es gibt einen Garten.
  • Es gibt eine Küche im Haus.
  • Es gibt viele Zimmer.

Keep in mind that "Es gibt" is always followed by a noun in the accusative case.

Using "sein" to Describe Location or State

The verb "sein" means "to be" and is used to express where something is located or to describe its condition. For example:

  • Der Garten ist groß.
  • Die Küche ist im Haus.
  • Die Zimmer sind groß.

Unlike "Es gibt," "sein" focuses on the state or position rather than mere existence.

Key Points to Remember

  • "Es gibt" = existence or availability of something (always accusative).
  • "Sein" = location or condition of something.
  • Examples show that while "Es gibt" introduces something new or affirms its presence, "sein" describes existing qualities or positions.

Important Differences Between English and German Expressions

In English, "there is" or "there are" and "to be" are used similarly but without strict case requirements. German's use of cases, especially the accusative after "Es gibt," differs significantly. For example, "there is a garden" corresponds directly to "Es gibt einen Garten," but knowing the accusative form "einen" is essential.

Useful phrases and words to practice include:

  • Es gibt (there is/are)
  • ist/sind (is/are)
  • einen Garten (a garden - accusative)
  • im Haus (in the house)
  • groß (big, large)

Understanding these will help you form clear and accurate sentences about existence and descriptions in German.

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Sophie Schmidt

International Administration Management

Würzburger Dolmetscherschule

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Last Updated:

Thursday, 17/07/2025 12:59