How Do You Say For In German

How Do You Say "For" in German? A Comprehensive Guide

This guide explores the various ways to translate "for" in German, depending on the context. It's not a simple one-to-one translation, as the English word "for" encompasses several different meanings and grammatical functions. Mastering these nuances is key to fluent German. This article will help you understand the different uses and provide examples to solidify your understanding.

1. "For" expressing purpose or reason (zum/zur/für)

This is probably the most common use of "for," indicating the reason behind an action. In German, this often uses the preposition "für" or the preposition "zum/zur" + Dative case.

• für + Accusative: This is used when "for" indicates the recipient or beneficiary of something.

  • Ich kaufe ein Geschenk für meine Mutter. (I buy a gift for my mother.)
  • Das ist gut für dich. (That's good for you.)

• zum/zur + Dative: This construction is used when expressing purpose. "Zum" is used with masculine and neuter nouns, while "zur" is used with feminine nouns.

  • Ich gehe zum Einkaufen. (I'm going for shopping / to go shopping.)
  • Sie geht zur Arbeit. (She is going for work / to work.)
  • Er lernt zum Arzt zu werden. (He is studying to become a doctor.)

2. "For" expressing duration (seit/während/für)

When "for" refers to a period of time, you'll often use "seit," "während," or "für."

• seit + Dative: Indicates "since" a certain point in time.

  • Ich wohne seit fünf Jahren hier. (I have lived here for five years.)

• während + Genitive (formal) or Accusative (informal): Means "during"

  • Während des Krieges… (During the war…) - Genitive
  • Während des Semesters… (During the semester…) - Genitive
  • Während des Spiels… (During the game…) - Genitive
  • Während der Fahrt…(During the drive…) - Genitive

• für + Accusative: Used when specifying a duration of time.

  • Ich arbeite für zwei Stunden. (I work for two hours.)

3. "For" meaning "in exchange for" or "instead of" (gegen/statt/anstatt)

For situations where "for" implies an exchange or substitution, you'll use different prepositions.

• gegen + Accusative: This means "in exchange for" or "for" in the sense of a trade.

  • Ich tausche mein Buch gegen dein. (I'll trade my book for yours.)

• statt/anstatt + Genitive: Means "instead of." "Anstatt" is slightly more formal.

  • Statt zu gehen, blieb ich zu Hause. (Instead of going, I stayed home.)
  • Anstatt zu essen, schlief er ein. (Instead of eating, he fell asleep.)

4. "For" as a part of phrasal verbs

Many German phrasal verbs incorporate the concept of "for," but their translation is not a direct equivalent. You'll need to learn these verbs individually. Examples include:

• sich entscheiden für etwas (to decide for something)
• sich interessieren für etwas (to be interested in something)
• warten auf jemanden (to wait for someone - note the use of "auf")

Conclusion

Translating "for" in German requires careful consideration of the context. Understanding the nuances of "für," "zum/zur," "seit," "während," "gegen," and "statt/anstatt," as well as their case requirements, is crucial for accurate and fluent German. Remember to practice using these prepositions in various sentences to reinforce your understanding. With practice, you'll become more confident in choosing the right German equivalent for "for" in any given situation.