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A1 preposition #1,000 le plus courant 11 min de lecture

neben

Top 1,000

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces neben en 30 secondes

Explication neben in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'neben' is introduced as a basic preposition of place. Learners are expected to use it to describe the physical location of objects in a room or buildings in a city. The primary focus is on the dative case (e.g., 'neben dem Tisch', 'neben der Schule'). At this stage, you should be able to answer simple 'Wo?' (Where?) questions using 'neben'. You might also learn very basic movement sentences with the accusative (e.g., 'Stell das Glas neben den Teller'), but the emphasis is usually on static location. The goal is to build a foundation for spatial awareness in German. You will use it to describe your family sitting next to each other in photos or where your favorite cafe is located. It is one of the first prepositions you learn alongside 'in', 'auf', and 'unter'. Mastery at this level means knowing that 'neben' means 'next to' and being able to use it with basic nouns and their correct dative articles.

At the A2 level, the distinction between dative (location) and accusative (direction) becomes more critical. You will practice 'Wechselpräpositionen' more rigorously. You should be able to distinguish between 'Der Hund liegt neben dem Bett' (dative) and 'Der Hund geht neben das Bett' (accusative). You will also start to see 'neben' in more varied contexts, such as giving detailed directions or describing more complex arrangements of objects. You might encounter 'neben' in the context of 'nebenan' (next door), which is a common adverbial form. At A2, you are expected to handle the gender of nouns more accurately when they follow 'neben', ensuring the articles 'dem', 'der', and 'den' are used correctly. You will also start to use 'neben' to describe people standing or sitting next to each other in social situations, expanding your ability to describe scenes and interactions.

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At the B1 level, you move beyond purely physical descriptions and begin to use 'neben' in its figurative sense, meaning 'besides' or 'in addition to'. For example, 'Neben seinem Beruf hat er viele Hobbys' (Besides his job, he has many hobbies). This abstract usage almost always requires the dative case. You will also learn more idiomatic expressions, such as 'nebenbei' (incidentally/on the side). Your ability to use 'neben' in complex sentences increases, including its use in subordinate clauses. You will also start to compare 'neben' with other prepositions like 'an' and 'bei' to choose the most precise word for a given situation. B1 learners should be comfortable using 'neben' to structure arguments, listing points in addition to one another. This level marks the transition from simple spatial description to more nuanced communication about life, work, and interests.

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At the B2 level, 'neben' is used with high frequency in professional and academic contexts. You will use it to express concurrent developments or to contrast two different ideas. For example, 'Neben den wirtschaftlichen Vorteilen müssen auch die ökologischen Folgen bedacht werden' (Besides the economic advantages, the ecological consequences must also be considered). You will also master more sophisticated idioms like 'neben der Spur sein' or 'neben sich stehen' and use them naturally in conversation. Your understanding of the nuances between 'neben' and its synonyms (like 'zusätzlich zu' or 'flankierend') will be well-developed. At this level, you should be able to use 'neben' to create complex, multi-layered sentences that reflect a high degree of linguistic control. You will also encounter 'neben' in more formal literature and news reports, where it helps to synthesize multiple pieces of information into a coherent narrative.

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At the C1 level, your use of 'neben' is nuanced and stylistically varied. You can use it to create specific rhetorical effects, such as placing two contrasting ideas 'side-by-side' for impact. You will have a deep understanding of how 'neben' functions in legal, scientific, and literary German. For instance, in a legal context, 'neben' might be used to describe secondary obligations or concurrent jurisdictions. You will also be able to analyze the use of 'neben' in classical literature, where it might be used to describe the physical and psychological proximity of characters. Your mastery of the dative/accusative distinction is flawless, and you can use the preposition in highly abstract ways without hesitation. C1 learners can also use 'neben' to express subtle comparisons, indicating how one thing stands 'beside' another in terms of quality or importance.

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At the C2 level, you have reached near-native proficiency in the use of 'neben'. You can use it in all its forms—spatial, figurative, idiomatic, and stylistic—with complete ease. You understand the historical development of the word and how its usage has evolved in different German dialects and registers. You can use 'neben' to write sophisticated essays, deliver persuasive speeches, and engage in deep philosophical discussions. Whether you are describing the placement of a minor character in a complex play or discussing the 'neben' (side-by-side) existence of different cultural paradigms, your use of the word is precise, natural, and evocative. You are also aware of very rare or archaic uses of 'neben' and can interpret them correctly in historical texts. At this level, 'neben' is not just a preposition but a versatile tool for expressing the complex relationships that define the human experience.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

neben en 30 secondes

The preposition 'neben' primarily means 'next to' or 'beside' in English, describing a lateral physical relationship between two objects or people in space.
It is a 'two-way' preposition, meaning it takes the dative case for static locations and the accusative case for movements toward a side-by-side position.
Figuratively, 'neben' can mean 'besides' or 'in addition to', which is very common in professional and academic German to list multiple factors or skills.
Common idioms like 'neben sich stehen' (to be beside oneself) or 'neben der Spur sein' (to be off track) use the word to describe psychological states.

The German preposition neben is a fundamental building block of the German language, primarily used to describe spatial relationships where one object is positioned to the side of another. At its core, it translates to 'beside' or 'next to' in English. However, its utility extends far beyond simple physical location, branching into figurative meanings that encompass concepts like 'in addition to' or 'compared with'. Understanding 'neben' requires a grasp of its role as a two-way preposition (Wechselpräposition), meaning it can trigger either the dative or accusative case depending on the context of the sentence. This versatility makes it indispensable for everyday communication, from describing where you live to explaining complex social or professional hierarchies.

Physical Proximity: The most common use is to indicate that something is located laterally to something else. For example, if a chair is positioned to the left or right of a table, you use 'neben'.

Der Stuhl steht neben dem Tisch.

Figurative Addition: In more advanced contexts, 'neben' functions similarly to 'besides' in English, indicating that something exists in addition to another factor. This is common in professional or academic writing.

Neben seinem Job studiert er auch noch Medizin.

Native speakers use 'neben' constantly when giving directions, describing furniture layouts, or even when expressing psychological states. For instance, the idiom 'neben sich stehen' (to be beside oneself) uses the spatial concept of being outside one's own body to describe shock or confusion. In a social setting, you might hear someone say they are sitting 'neben' a friend, emphasizing the social bond through physical proximity. The word is ubiquitous because it defines the immediate environment of the speaker. Without 'neben', describing the world would be significantly more difficult, as you would lack the primary word for lateral positioning.

Ich parke mein Auto neben der Garage.

Comparative Contexts: When you place two things 'neben' each other, you are often inviting a comparison. In German, 'neben' can imply that one thing is being evaluated in the light of another.

Neben dir sehe ich wirklich klein aus.

In summary, 'neben' is the primary tool for expressing 'next to'. It covers everything from a cat sitting next to a dog to a person having a hobby in addition to their career. Its grammatical behavior—switching between dative for location and accusative for movement—is the most critical technical aspect for learners to master. By visualizing objects side-by-side, you can easily internalize the core meaning of this essential German preposition.

Using neben correctly in a sentence requires a dual understanding of spatial logic and German case grammar. As a 'Wechselpräposition' (two-way preposition), 'neben' changes the case of the noun that follows it based on whether you are describing a static location or a movement toward a destination. This is a concept that often challenges English speakers, as English uses 'next to' regardless of movement. In German, the distinction is vital for clarity and grammatical accuracy.

The Dative Case: Static Location: When you are answering the question 'Wo?' (Where?), 'neben' takes the dative case. This describes where something is already located. For example, 'The book is lying next to the lamp.'

Das Buch liegt neben der Lampe (dative).

The Accusative Case: Movement/Direction: When you are answering the question 'Wohin?' (To where?), 'neben' takes the accusative case. This describes the action of placing something next to something else. For example, 'I am putting the book next to the lamp.'

Ich lege das Buch neben die Lampe (accusative).

Furthermore, 'neben' can be used at the beginning of a sentence to emphasize the relationship or to introduce a secondary topic. When used figuratively to mean 'besides', it almost always takes the dative case. This is common when listing skills, responsibilities, or items. For instance, 'Besides German, I speak English.' Here, 'neben' acts as a preposition of addition, and the dative case is the standard requirement for this abstract usage.

Neben Deutsch spreche ich auch Englisch.

Word Order and Syntax: In a standard sentence, 'neben' followed by its noun phrase usually comes after the verb. However, if you want to emphasize the location, you can move the whole 'neben' phrase to the first position, which then forces the verb to the second position.

Neben dem Haus steht ein großer Baum.

Mastering 'neben' involves practicing these case changes until they become instinctive. Whether you are placing a glass next to a plate (accusative) or noticing that the glass is already next to the plate (dative), the choice of case tells the listener whether an action is occurring or a state is being described. This precision is one of the hallmarks of clear German communication.

The word neben is a staple of daily German life, appearing in contexts ranging from the mundane to the highly formal. You will hear it most frequently in physical descriptions. If you are at a dinner party, someone might ask you to sit 'neben' them. If you are looking for a specific shop in a city, a passerby might tell you it is 'neben der Apotheke' (next to the pharmacy). It is the go-to word for spatial orientation in any environment.

In the Workplace: In professional settings, 'neben' is often used to describe concurrent tasks or roles. A manager might say, 'Neben dem Projekt A müssen wir uns auch um Projekt B kümmern.' This usage highlights the multitasking nature of modern work.

Er arbeitet neben seinem Studium in einem Café.

At Home and in the Kitchen: When cooking or setting the table, 'neben' is essential. 'Stell das Salz neben den Pfeffer' (Put the salt next to the pepper) is a common instruction. It helps organize the physical space of the home.

Die Gabel liegt neben dem Teller.

In urban environments, 'neben' is used for parking and navigation. 'Parken Sie neben dem blauen Auto' (Park next to the blue car). It is also used in public transport announcements or when people are coordinating meetings: 'Treffen wir uns neben dem Haupteingang?' (Shall we meet next to the main entrance?). This word provides the necessary coordinates for social interaction in physical space.

Ich stehe neben der Bushaltestelle.

In Media and Literature: Authors use 'neben' to create vivid imagery, placing characters or objects in relation to each other to set a scene. In news, it is used to compare statistics or events: 'Neben dem Anstieg der Preise sank die Kaufkraft.'

Das Schloss liegt neben einem wunderschönen See.

Ultimately, 'neben' is a word of connection. It connects objects in space, tasks in time, and ideas in logic. Whether you are navigating a new city, starting a new job, or reading a German novel, you will encounter 'neben' as a constant guide to how things relate to one another in the German-speaking world.

Learning to use neben correctly involves navigating several common pitfalls, primarily related to the German case system and the subtle differences between similar prepositions. For English speakers, the lack of a case system in English makes the dative/accusative distinction particularly challenging. However, even advanced learners can occasionally slip up when the usage becomes figurative or idiomatic.

Mistake 1: Case Confusion (Dative vs. Accusative): The most frequent error is using the wrong case after 'neben'. Many learners default to one case or forget that movement requires the accusative. Saying 'Ich setze mich neben dem Stuhl' is incorrect because 'setzen' implies movement to a new position.

Falsch: Ich setze mich neben dem Tisch. Richtig: Ich setze mich neben den Tisch.

Mistake 2: Confusing 'neben' with 'an': Learners often confuse 'neben' (next to/beside) with 'an' (at/on the edge of). While both imply proximity, 'an' usually suggests a closer contact or being at a boundary (like a wall or a table), whereas 'neben' is strictly lateral.

Ich sitze am Tisch (at the table, to eat). Ich sitze neben dem Tisch (beside it, perhaps on the floor).

Another common mistake involves the word 'nahe' (near). While 'neben' implies being right next to something, 'nahe' is less specific and can mean anywhere in the vicinity. Using 'neben' when you mean 'near' can lead to confusion about exactly where an object is located. Furthermore, in figurative speech, learners sometimes forget that 'neben' meaning 'besides' requires the dative, even if the sentence feels like it has 'movement' or 'action'.

Neben meiner Arbeit (dative) habe ich viele Hobbys.

Mistake 3: Misinterpreting Idioms: Idioms like 'neben der Spur sein' (to be off track/confused) are often translated too literally. Learners might try to use 'neben' in English-style idioms where it doesn't fit in German.

Er ist heute völlig neben der Spur.

To avoid these mistakes, practice visualizing the scene. Is there movement? Use accusative. Is it a fixed spot? Use dative. Is it side-by-side? Use 'neben'. By focusing on these three questions, you can significantly reduce errors and speak more like a native German speaker.

While neben is the most common way to say 'next to', German offers several alternatives that provide more specific nuances. Choosing the right word can make your descriptions more precise and your German sound more sophisticated. Understanding the subtle differences between 'neben', 'an', 'bei', and 'nahe' is a key step in moving from A1 to higher levels of proficiency.

Neben vs. An: 'Neben' means side-by-side without necessarily touching. 'An' implies being at the edge of something, often with contact or a functional purpose. You sit 'am Tisch' to eat, but 'neben dem Tisch' if you are just standing nearby.

Neben vs. Bei: 'Bei' is more general and often means 'near' or 'at the place of'. If you are 'bei der Post', you are at the post office. If you are 'neben der Post', you are physically located on the sidewalk next to the building.

Ich bin bei meiner Freundin (at her house). Ich stehe neben meiner Freundin (physically next to her).

Neben vs. Nahe / In der Nähe von: 'Nahe' or 'in der Nähe von' means 'near'. This is less precise than 'neben'. Something can be near a city but still miles away, whereas 'neben' implies immediate proximity.

Das Hotel ist in der Nähe vom Bahnhof. Das Café ist neben dem Bahnhof.

In more formal or literary contexts, you might encounter 'unweit' (not far from) or 'flankierend' (flanking). 'Flankierend' is specifically used when something is on both sides or providing support. For abstract meanings of 'besides', you can also use 'außer' (except for) or 'zusätzlich zu' (in addition to). While 'neben' is versatile, 'zusätzlich zu' is often clearer in professional reports to avoid any spatial confusion.

Zusätzlich zu den Kosten müssen wir die Zeit planen.

Dicht bei: This phrase means 'very close to' and is a stronger version of 'bei', often used interchangeably with 'neben' in casual speech when the exact lateral position isn't critical.

By learning these alternatives, you gain the ability to describe the world with greater resolution. You can distinguish between sitting 'at' a table to eat and sitting 'next to' it to talk, or between living 'near' a park and living 'right next to' it. This nuance is what makes the German language so expressive and precise.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The word 'neben' is linguistically related to 'eben' (flat/even), which explains the original sense of being on the same level as something else.

Guide de prononciation

UK /ˈneːbn̩/

US /ˈneɪbən/

The stress is on the first syllable: NE-ben.

Rime avec

geben leben beben streben weben eben heben kleben

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing the 'e' in the second syllable too clearly.
Mixing up the 'b' with a 'p' sound.
Failing to make the first 'e' long and closed.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 1/5

Very easy to recognize in text as 'next to'.

Écriture 3/5

Requires knowledge of dative and accusative cases.

Expression orale 2/5

Commonly used, but case endings must be correct.

Écoute 1/5

Clear pronunciation, easy to hear.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

in auf unter vor hinter

Apprends ensuite

zwischen über an bei gegenüber

Avancé

zusätzlich außerdem ferner parallel angrenzend

Grammaire à connaître

Wechselpräpositionen

neben, in, auf, unter, vor, hinter, über, an, zwischen.

Dative for Location (Wo?)

Ich bin neben dem Auto.

Accusative for Direction (Wohin?)

Ich gehe neben das Auto.

Dative Articles

dem (m/n), der (f), den + n (pl).

Accusative Articles

den (m), die (f), das (n), die (pl).

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Exemples par niveau

Der Stuhl steht neben dem Tisch.

The chair stands next to the table.

Dative case: 'dem Tisch' (masculine).

Ich wohne neben der Schule.

I live next to the school.

Dative case: 'der Schule' (feminine).

Das Auto parkt neben dem Haus.

The car is parked next to the house.

Dative case: 'dem Haus' (neuter).

Wer sitzt neben dir?

Who is sitting next to you?

Dative case: 'dir' (personal pronoun).

Stell die Lampe neben das Bett.

Put the lamp next to the bed.

Accusative case: 'das Bett' (neuter, movement).

Die Post ist neben der Bank.

The post office is next to the bank.

Dative case: 'der Bank' (feminine).

Mein Hund schläft neben mir.

My dog sleeps next to me.

Dative case: 'mir' (personal pronoun).

Leg den Schlüssel neben das Telefon.

Lay the key next to the phone.

Accusative case: 'das Telefon' (neuter, movement).

Wir setzen uns neben das Fenster.

We are sitting down next to the window.

Accusative case: 'das Fenster' (neuter, movement).

Neben dem Kino gibt es ein Café.

Next to the cinema, there is a cafe.

Dative case: 'dem Kino' (neuter).

Er stellt sein Fahrrad neben mein Auto.

He puts his bicycle next to my car.

Accusative case: 'mein Auto' (neuter, movement).

Die Kinder spielen neben dem Fluss.

The children are playing next to the river.

Dative case: 'dem Fluss' (masculine).

Komm und setz dich neben mich!

Come and sit down next to me!

Accusative case: 'mich' (personal pronoun, movement).

Neben der Kirche steht ein alter Baum.

Next to the church stands an old tree.

Dative case: 'der Kirche' (feminine).

Ich habe mein Heft neben dein Buch gelegt.

I laid my notebook next to your book.

Accusative case: 'dein Buch' (neuter, movement).

Nebenan wohnt eine nette Familie.

A nice family lives next door.

Adverbial use: 'nebenan'.

Neben seinem Studium arbeitet er als Kellner.

Besides his studies, he works as a waiter.

Figurative use: 'besides/in addition to' (Dative).

Neben der Musik interessiert sie sich für Kunst.

Besides music, she is interested in art.

Figurative use: 'besides' (Dative).

Er erzählte mir das so nebenbei.

He told me that just in passing.

Adverbial idiom: 'nebenbei' (incidentally).

Neben dem Haupteingang finden Sie die Toiletten.

Next to the main entrance, you will find the toilets.

Dative case: 'dem Haupteingang' (masculine).

Ich konnte neben dem Lärm nicht schlafen.

I couldn't sleep next to (because of) the noise.

Dative case: 'dem Lärm' (masculine).

Neben der Arbeit treibe ich viel Sport.

Besides work, I do a lot of sports.

Figurative use (Dative).

Stell den Schrank bitte neben die Tür.

Please put the wardrobe next to the door.

Accusative case: 'die Tür' (feminine, movement).

Neben wem hast du im Flugzeug gesessen?

Next to whom did you sit on the plane?

Dative case: 'wem' (interrogative pronoun).

Neben den Kosten spielt auch die Zeit eine Rolle.

Besides the costs, time also plays a role.

Figurative use in a formal context (Dative).

Er war völlig neben der Spur.

He was completely off track / confused.

Idiom: 'neben der Spur sein' (Dative).

Neben der Tatsache, dass es regnet, ist es auch kalt.

Besides the fact that it's raining, it's also cold.

Complex structure with 'neben der Tatsache'.

Sie wirkte heute irgendwie neben sich.

She seemed somehow beside herself today.

Idiom: 'neben sich stehen/sein' (Dative).

Neben dem regulären Programm gibt es Workshops.

Besides the regular program, there are workshops.

Formal dative usage.

Er hat das Geld nebenher verdient.

He earned the money on the side.

Adverbial: 'nebenher'.

Neben der Autobahn wurde ein neuer Park gebaut.

Next to the highway, a new park was built.

Dative case: 'der Autobahn' (feminine).

Ich habe mich direkt neben ihn gestellt.

I stood myself directly next to him.

Accusative case: 'ihn' (personal pronoun, movement).

Neben der ästhetischen Komponente ist die Funktionalität entscheidend.

Besides the aesthetic component, functionality is decisive.

Academic/Formal dative usage.

Das Gebäude wirkt neben dem Wolkenkratzer winzig.

The building looks tiny next to the skyscraper.

Comparative use of 'neben' (Dative).

Neben der fachlichen Qualifikation zählt die Sozialkompetenz.

Besides professional qualification, social competence counts.

Professional context (Dative).

Er stand völlig neben sich vor lauter Schreck.

He was completely beside himself with fright.

Idiomatic dative.

Neben den erwähnten Punkten gibt es noch weitere Aspekte.

Besides the points mentioned, there are further aspects.

Structuring an argument (Dative).

Die Villa liegt malerisch neben den Weinbergen.

The villa is situated picturesquely next to the vineyards.

Literary/Descriptive dative.

Er hat sich neben die Mächtigen dieser Welt gewagt.

He dared to place himself next to the powerful of this world.

Metaphorical movement (Accusative).

Neben der Theorie muss auch die Praxis stimmen.

Besides the theory, the practice must also be right.

Formal contrast (Dative).

Neben der ontologischen Frage stellt sich die ethische.

Besides the ontological question, the ethical one arises.

Highly academic dative usage.

Die Bedeutung verblasst neben der Größe des Ereignisses.

The significance pales beside the magnitude of the event.

Abstract comparative dative.

Neben dem Hauptstrang der Erzählung laufen mehrere Nebenhandlungen.

Besides the main thread of the narrative, several subplots run.

Literary analysis (Dative).

Er existiert nur noch neben der Realität.

He only exists beside reality now.

Philosophical/Metaphorical dative.

Neben der rein materiellen Ebene gibt es eine geistige.

Besides the purely material level, there is a spiritual one.

Abstract dative.

Das Gesetz findet neben der Verordnung Anwendung.

The law is applied alongside the regulation.

Legal terminology (Dative).

Neben der Pracht des Hofes wirkte das Volk armselig.

Beside the splendor of the court, the people seemed wretched.

Historical/Literary contrast.

Er stellte seine eigenen Bedürfnisse neben die der Gruppe.

He placed his own needs alongside those of the group.

Abstract movement (Accusative).

Collocations courantes

neben dem Haus

neben der Arbeit

neben der Spur

neben sich stehen

direkt neben

neben dem Studium

neben der Tatsache

neben der Schule

neben dem Weg

neben der Grenze

Phrases Courantes

Gleich nebenan

— Right next door or very close by.

Wir wohnen gleich nebenan.

Nebenbei bemerkt

— By the way or incidentally.

Nebenbei bemerkt, ich habe Hunger.

Neben der Kappe sein

— To be out of sorts or not feeling well.

Ich bin heute etwas neben der Kappe.

Neben dem Ziel

— Missing the target or point.

Deine Antwort war völlig neben dem Ziel.

Neben der Rolle sein

— To be acting out of character or confused.

Er ist nach dem Unfall völlig neben der Rolle.

Nebenher laufen

— To happen simultaneously or as a side project.

Das Projekt läuft so nebenher.

Neben der Zeit

— Outside of the usual time or outdated.

Das wirkt irgendwie neben der Zeit.

Neben dem Gesetz

— Outside of the law (illegal).

Er handelt oft neben dem Gesetz.

Neben der Norm

— Outside of the standard or unusual.

Sein Verhalten ist etwas neben der Norm.

Neben dem Protokoll

— Off the record or unofficial.

Das sagen wir nur neben dem Protokoll.

Souvent confondu avec

neben vs an

Use 'an' for contact or edge; 'neben' for side-by-side.

neben vs bei

Use 'bei' for general vicinity or 'at someone's house'.

neben vs nahe

Use 'nahe' for 'near' in a general sense, not necessarily lateral.

Expressions idiomatiques

"neben der Spur sein"

— To be confused, distracted, or not functioning normally.

Nach der langen Reise war er völlig neben der Spur.

informal

"neben sich stehen"

— To be in a state of shock, extreme stress, or dissociation.

Sie stand nach der Nachricht völlig neben sich.

neutral

"neben der Kappe sein"

— To feel slightly unwell, tired, or mentally foggy.

Ich kann mich nicht konzentrieren, ich bin heute neben der Kappe.

colloquial

"völlig daneben sein"

— To be completely wrong or inappropriate (related to 'neben').

Dein Witz war völlig daneben.

informal

"nebenher verdienen"

— To earn extra money through a side job.

Er verdient sich nebenher etwas Geld mit Nachhilfe.

neutral

"neben dem Mainstream"

— Outside of popular or conventional trends.

Ihre Musik liegt weit neben dem Mainstream.

neutral

"neben der Sache liegen"

— To be irrelevant or miss the point entirely.

Ihre Argumente liegen völlig neben der Sache.

formal

"neben der Schnur sein"

— An older idiom meaning to be out of order or confused.

Heute ist alles irgendwie neben der Schnur.

archaic

"neben dem Gleis sein"

— Similar to 'off the rails', meaning to be in a bad state.

Er ist nach der Kündigung völlig neben dem Gleis.

informal

"neben der Wahrheit"

— Not quite true or misleading.

Diese Aussage liegt weit neben der Wahrheit.

neutral

Facile à confondre

neben vs an

Both mean 'near' or 'at'.

'An' usually implies contact with a surface or a functional spot (at a desk), while 'neben' is strictly lateral proximity.

Ich sitze am Fenster (at the window) vs. Ich stehe neben dem Fenster (next to it).

neben vs bei

Both describe proximity.

'Bei' is more about being 'at' a location or 'with' a person, while 'neben' is about physical side-by-side positioning.

Ich bin bei der Bank (at the bank) vs. Ich stehe neben der Bank (beside the building).

neben vs nahe

Both mean 'close'.

'Nahe' is a general distance, while 'neben' is a specific position.

Ich wohne nahe Berlin (near Berlin) vs. Ich wohne neben dem Park (next to the park).

neben vs zwischen

Both are prepositions of place.

'Zwischen' requires two objects (between), while 'neben' only requires one reference point (next to).

Ich sitze zwischen Hans und Peter vs. Ich sitze neben Hans.

neben vs vor

Both describe relative position.

'Vor' is 'in front of', 'neben' is 'to the side of'.

Das Auto parkt vor dem Haus vs. Das Auto parkt neben dem Haus.

Structures de phrases

Nomen + ist + neben + Dativ-Nomen.

Die Katze ist neben dem Hund.

Stell + Nomen + neben + Akkusativ-Nomen.

Stell das Glas neben den Teller.

Neben + Dativ-Nomen + Verb + Nomen.

Neben dem Park steht ein Hotel.

Neben + Dativ-Nomen + Verb + Subjekt + auch + ...

Neben Deutsch lerne ich auch Spanisch.

Subjekt + Verb + etwas + nebenbei.

Er liest die Zeitung nebenbei.

Subjekt + ist + völlig + neben der Spur.

Ich bin heute völlig neben der Spur.

Neben + Dativ-Aspekt + ist + auch + ... entscheidend.

Neben der Qualität ist auch der Preis entscheidend.

Etwas + steht + neben + Dativ-Konzept.

Die Ethik steht neben der Logik.

Famille de mots

Noms

Nebenraum (side room)

Nebensache (minor matter)

Nebenjob (side job)

Nebenwirkung (side effect)

Verbes

nebenherlaufen (to run alongside)

nebenordnen (to coordinate/rank equally)

Adjectifs

nebensächlich (minor/unimportant)

nebenberuflich (part-time/side job)

Apparenté

Nebeneinander (side-by-side existence)

Nebenbuhler (rival)

Nebenfluss (tributary)

Nebensatz (subordinate clause)

Nebenkosten (utility costs)

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Very high; one of the top 100 most used words in German.

Erreurs courantes

Ich sitze neben den Tisch. → Ich sitze neben dem Tisch.
Since you are already sitting (static location), you must use the dative case 'dem'.
Ich stelle das Glas neben dem Teller. → Ich stelle das Glas neben den Teller.
The verb 'stellen' implies movement to a destination, so you must use the accusative case 'den'.
Neben von der Schule ist ein Park. → Neben der Schule ist ein Park.
'Neben' is a preposition and does not need 'von'. It takes the dative case directly.
Er wohnt neben mich. → Er wohnt neben mir.
Living is a state, not a movement toward a destination. Use the dative 'mir'.
Neben das Studium arbeite ich. → Neben dem Studium arbeite ich.
When 'neben' means 'besides' (figurative), it always takes the dative case.

Astuces

The 'Wo' vs 'Wohin' Test

Always ask yourself if you can ask 'Where?' (Wo) or 'To where?' (Wohin). 'Wo' leads to dative, 'Wohin' leads to accusative. This is the golden rule for 'neben'.

Neben vs. An

If you are touching the side of something (like a wall), use 'an'. If you are just near the side, use 'neben'. 'An der Wand' vs 'Neben der Wand'.

Using 'Nebenan'

Use 'nebenan' to sound more like a native speaker when referring to a neighbor or a nearby room. It's shorter and more natural than 'im Zimmer nebenan'.

Figurative Dative

When using 'neben' to mean 'besides', always use the dative. It's a common mistake to try and use accusative here. 'Neben dem Studium' is always correct.

Personal Space

In Germany, 'neben' implies a specific distance. Being 'neben' someone is closer than being 'in der Nähe' of someone. Use it carefully in social contexts.

Beside Yourself

The idiom 'neben sich stehen' is very common for shock. If someone is acting crazy or is very upset, they are 'neben sich'.

Long E

Make sure the first 'e' in 'neben' is long and closed, like the 'a' in 'name' but without the 'i' sound at the end.

Neighbor Mnemonic

Neighbors live 'neben' you. This simple association will help you remember the meaning forever.

Compound Nouns

Many German words start with 'Neben-'. They usually mean 'side-' or 'secondary'. 'Nebenjob', 'Nebenrolle', 'Nebenwirkung'.

Daily Practice

Every time you put something down today, say out loud: 'Ich lege es neben...' and use the correct accusative article.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'NEBEN' as 'NExt to BEN'. Imagine your friend Ben standing right beside you. 'Neben' = Next to Ben.

Association visuelle

Visualize two identical blocks sitting side-by-side on a table. The space between them is where 'neben' lives.

Word Web

next to beside addition parallel side proximity lateral adjacent

Défi

Try to describe five things in your room right now using 'neben' and the correct dative case.

Origine du mot

Derived from Middle High German 'neben' and Old High German 'nebano'. It is related to the word 'Abend' (evening) in some ancient roots, but primarily developed as a contraction of 'in ebene' (on the level/beside).

Sens originel : Originally meant 'on the level with' or 'at the same height as'.

Germanic

Contexte culturel

No specific sensitivities, but be aware of personal space when using it to describe people.

English speakers often use 'next to' and 'near' interchangeably, but German speakers are more precise with 'neben' vs 'nahe'.

The song 'Nebenan' by various German artists. The concept of 'Nebeneinander' in German sociology. Literary descriptions in Goethe's works.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Giving Directions

Neben der Post links abbiegen.
Das Haus neben der Kirche.
Es ist direkt neben dem Bahnhof.
Suchen Sie das Geschäft neben dem Park.

Setting the Table

Das Messer liegt neben dem Teller.
Stell das Glas neben die Gabel.
Die Serviette ist neben dem Löffel.
Salz steht neben dem Pfeffer.

Describing People

Er steht neben seiner Frau.
Wer ist der Mann neben dir?
Ich sitze neben meinem Bruder.
Sie tanzt neben ihrer Freundin.

Work/Study

Neben dem Job lerne ich viel.
Mein Büro ist neben dem Aufzug.
Er arbeitet nebenher als Fahrer.
Neben der Theorie gibt es Praxis.

Parking/Driving

Parken Sie neben dem blauen PKW.
Die Ausfahrt ist neben der Tankstelle.
Er fährt neben mir auf der Autobahn.
Halt mal neben dem Baum an.

Amorces de conversation

"Wer sitzt in der Schule normalerweise neben dir?"

"Was steht direkt neben deinem Bett in deinem Schlafzimmer?"

"Welches Gebäude befindet sich direkt neben deinem Haus?"

"Hast du einen Nebenjob neben deinem Studium oder deiner Arbeit?"

"Was liegt auf deinem Schreibtisch direkt neben deinem Computer?"

Sujets d'écriture

Beschreibe dein Wohnzimmer. Was steht neben dem Sofa und was liegt neben dem Fernseher?

Was machst du alles neben deiner Arbeit oder deinem Studium, um dich zu entspannen?

Denk an dein Lieblingsrestaurant. Was ist direkt neben diesem Restaurant?

Warst du schon einmal 'neben der Spur'? Beschreibe die Situation.

Stell dir vor, du sitzt in einem Flugzeug. Neben wem würdest du am liebsten sitzen?

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

No, 'neben' is a two-way preposition. It takes the dative case when describing a static location (answering 'Wo?') and the accusative case when describing movement toward a destination (answering 'Wohin?'). For example, 'neben dem Tisch' (location) vs. 'neben den Tisch' (movement).

'Neben' is a preposition that requires a noun or pronoun (e.g., neben dem Haus). 'Nebenan' is an adverb that stands alone and means 'next door' or 'nearby' (e.g., Er wohnt nebenan). You don't put a noun after 'nebenan'.

Yes, in a figurative sense, 'neben' means 'besides' or 'in addition to'. In this context, it almost always takes the dative case. For example: 'Neben meiner Arbeit habe ich Hobbys' (Besides my work, I have hobbies).

You say 'neben mir' (dative) if you are already there, or 'neben mich' (accusative) if someone is moving to sit next to you. For example: 'Er sitzt neben mir' vs. 'Er setzt sich neben mich'.

'Nebenbei' is an adverb meaning 'incidentally', 'by the way', or 'on the side'. It is used to introduce a side comment or describe a secondary activity. For example: 'Ich lerne Deutsch und arbeite nebenbei'.

Generally, 'neben' is not used for time. Use 'während' (during) or 'vor/nach' (before/after) for temporal relationships. 'Neben' is strictly spatial or additive.

No, 'neben' is used directly with the noun in the dative or accusative case. You do not say 'neben von dem Haus'. Just 'neben dem Haus'.

There isn't a single opposite, but 'weit weg von' (far from) or 'gegenüber' (across from) are often used as conceptual opposites in spatial descriptions.

Use the 'Be-rule': If you are 'BEing' there (static), use dative. If you are 'BEcoming' there (moving), use accusative. 'Neben dem Tisch' (being), 'Neben den Tisch' (becoming).

'Neben' is neutral and used in all registers of German, from casual conversation to academic writing.

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