Can and able: singular 'können' + infinitive
Learning outcomes
I can say what I and others are able to do using the modal verb 'können' and correct word order.
I can pronounce [au].
Can and able: singular 'können' + infinitive
Learning outcomes
I can say what I and others are able to do using the modal verb 'können' and correct word order.
I can pronounce [au].
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Vocabulary and transcripts for this lessons
Key learning points
- [au] is pronounced as in 'Haus'.
- Learning new vocabulary (especially verbs) allows you to use familiar vocabulary in different ways.
- 'Können' is a modal verb used to say what you can and cannot do (as in physically or situationally able).
- 'Kann' means 'can' and is used with 'ich', 'sie', 'er', 'es'. 'Du kannst' means 'you can'.
- Modal verbs such as 'können' require a 2nd verb in the infinitive, placed at the end of the sentence.
Keywords
[au] - pronounced as in 'Haus'
Modal verb - verb of necessity or possibility (must, can, want) used with a 2nd verb in the infinitive, which goes to the end
Können - a modal verb meaning 'to be able to'
Common misconception
The infinitive comes directly after the form of 'können', as in English: 'I can play guitar'.
The infinitive comes at the end of the sentence in German when used with a modal verb such as 'können', as in 'Ich kann Gitarre spielen'.
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