Introduction to Futur I with Regular Verbs
This lesson focuses on the German Futur I tense, which is used to express actions that will take place in the future. It is especially useful for discussing plans, predictions, or events that are expected to happen.
How to Form Futur I
The Futur I is built using the conjugated form of the auxiliary verb werden followed by the infinitive of the main verb. This simple structure makes it straightforward to learn and apply:
- Subject + werden (conjugated) + main verb (infinitive)
For example, with the verb stehen (to stand):
| stehen |
|---|
| ich werde stehen |
| du wirst stehen |
| er/sie/es wird stehen |
| wir werden stehen |
| ihr werdet stehen |
| sie/Sie werden stehen |
Usage and Key Points
The Futur I is used mainly when speaking about future events or intentions. The time frame is often indicated by words such as morgen (tomorrow), bald (soon), or nächste Woche (next week).
Important note: Irregular verbs that change in the simple past (Präteritum) do not change in the Futur I. The infinitive form remains the same after werden.
Examples of Useful Vocabulary and Expressions
- werden – to become / used as auxiliary in Futur I
- stehen – to stand
- sein – to be
- kaufen – to buy
- herunterladen – to download
- gehen – to go
- bestellen – to order
Important Differences Between English and German
In English, future tense often uses "will" + base verb, e.g., "I will stand." In German, this corresponds to werden + infinitive, such as ich werde stehen. However, unlike English, German Futur I uses werden as a full verb and requires proper conjugation for each subject pronoun.
Additionally, while English sometimes uses present continuous or "going to" to indicate the future, German prefers Futur I or present tense with future time indicators depending on context.
Useful Phrases for Expressing Future Actions
- Ich werde morgen arbeiten. – I will work tomorrow.
- Du wirst bald ankommen. – You will arrive soon.
- Wir werden nächste Woche feiern. – We will celebrate next week.
- Er wird das Buch lesen. – He will read the book.