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A1 verb #1,500 le plus courant 13 min de lecture

schreiben

Top 1,500

At the A1 beginner level, learning the verb 'schreiben' is an absolute priority. It is introduced very early in language courses because it is essential for basic communication and classroom instructions. At this stage, the focus is entirely on the present tense conjugation, which is completely regular and easy to memorize: ich schreibe, du schreibst, er/sie/es schreibt, wir schreiben, ihr schreibt, sie/Sie schreiben. Learners practice using this verb in simple, everyday contexts, such as writing a letter (einen Brief schreiben), writing an email (eine E-Mail schreiben), or writing a text message (eine SMS schreiben). The vocabulary surrounding the verb is kept basic, focusing on common nouns like words (Wörter), sentences (Sätze), and names (Namen). Teachers frequently use the imperative form in the classroom, instructing students with phrases like 'Schreiben Sie das bitte' (Please write this down) or 'Schreib deinen Namen an die Tafel' (Write your name on the board). Understanding these basic commands is crucial for participating in class. Furthermore, learners at the A1 level begin to understand the basic sentence structure involving a direct object in the accusative case, learning that the thing being written must take the accusative form, such as 'einen Text' (masculine accusative). While the complexities of past tenses and dative recipients are generally avoided or only touched upon lightly at this stage, establishing a solid foundation with the present tense of 'schreiben' empowers beginners to express their current actions and understand basic written instructions, paving the way for more complex communication in subsequent levels.

Moving into the A2 level, the usage of 'schreiben' expands significantly, particularly with the introduction of past tenses. Learners are now expected to recount past events, which means mastering the conversational past tense (Perfekt). They learn that 'schreiben' is a strong verb and must memorize its past participle, 'geschrieben', used with the auxiliary verb 'haben' (e.g., Ich habe einen Brief geschrieben). This allows them to talk about what they wrote yesterday or last week. Additionally, the simple past (Präteritum) form 'schrieb' is introduced, primarily for reading comprehension, as it is common in stories and news articles. At the A2 level, learners also begin to construct more complex sentences using coordinating and subordinating conjunctions. They might say, 'Ich schreibe dir, weil ich dich vermisse' (I am writing to you because I miss you), demonstrating an understanding of verb placement in subordinate clauses. The concept of the dative case for the recipient is solidified; learners practice phrases like 'Ich schreibe meiner Mutter' (I am writing to my mother), understanding that the person receiving the writing takes the dative form. Vocabulary expands to include different types of written documents, such as invitations (Einladungen), postcards (Postkarten), and short reports (Berichte). The ability to write short, simple notes and messages relating to matters in areas of immediate need is a key competency at this level, making 'schreiben' a central tool for practical, everyday communication.

At the B1 intermediate level, learners develop a much more nuanced and flexible command of the verb 'schreiben'. They are now expected to produce connected text on topics that are familiar or of personal interest. This involves using 'schreiben' to express opinions, describe experiences, and narrate events in a structured manner. The simple past tense (Präteritum) becomes more active in their writing, especially when composing formal letters or recounting stories. They confidently use forms like 'ich schrieb', 'er schrieb', and 'wir schrieben'. A major focus at this level is the distinction between formal and informal writing. Learners practice writing formal emails or letters to businesses or authorities, utilizing appropriate greetings (Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren) and closings (Mit freundlichen Grüßen), and understanding how the tone of 'schreiben' changes in these contexts. Furthermore, B1 learners are introduced to common prepositional phrases associated with the verb, such as 'schreiben an' (to write to) with the accusative, and 'schreiben über' (to write about) with the accusative. This allows for more precise expression, e.g., 'Ich schreibe einen Artikel über den Umweltschutz' (I am writing an article about environmental protection). They also begin to encounter and use separable prefix verbs derived from 'schreiben', such as 'aufschreiben' (to note down) and 'abschreiben' (to copy), expanding their vocabulary and ability to describe specific writing-related actions accurately.

Reaching the B2 upper-intermediate level, the use of 'schreiben' becomes highly sophisticated and abstract. Learners are expected to understand and produce complex texts on both concrete and abstract topics. The focus shifts heavily towards the extensive family of prefixed verbs derived from 'schreiben'. Students must master the subtle differences between verbs like 'beschreiben' (to describe), 'verschreiben' (to prescribe/to make a writing error), 'umschreiben' (to rewrite/to paraphrase), and 'vorschreiben' (to dictate/to stipulate). These variations are crucial for precise academic and professional communication. At this level, the passive voice is frequently employed, and learners must comfortably construct sentences like 'Der Bericht wird morgen geschrieben' (The report will be written tomorrow) or 'Das Buch wurde 1990 geschrieben' (The book was written in 1990). This demonstrates a strong grasp of advanced grammatical structures. B2 learners also use 'schreiben' in the context of argumentation and analysis, writing detailed essays, reports, and formal complaints. They learn to use nominalized forms, such as 'das Schreiben' (the document/the act of writing), which is common in formal and bureaucratic German (e.g., 'Bitte ignorieren Sie dieses Schreiben' - Please ignore this document). The ability to adapt their writing style—from a casual blog post to a formal business proposal—using the appropriate vocabulary and grammatical structures surrounding the concept of writing is a hallmark of B2 proficiency.

At the C1 advanced level, the verb 'schreiben' is utilized with near-native fluency and precision. Learners are expected to express themselves clearly, well-structured, and in detail on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organizational patterns, connectors, and cohesive devices. The act of writing is no longer just about conveying basic information; it is about style, tone, and rhetorical effect. C1 learners engage with complex literature, analyzing how authors 'schreiben' and the stylistic devices they employ. They are comfortable with highly specialized and idiomatic expressions related to writing. For instance, they might use phrases like 'etwas großschreiben' (to attach great importance to something) in a metaphorical sense, rather than just its literal meaning of capitalizing a word. They understand the nuances of bureaucratic and legal German (Beamtendeutsch), where 'Schreiben' as a noun is ubiquitous. In their own production, C1 students can write demanding, longer texts, such as academic papers, complex professional reports, or detailed critical reviews, demonstrating a masterful command of vocabulary, grammar, and syntax. They seamlessly integrate various prefixed forms (e.g., 'sich etwas zuschreiben' - to attribute something to oneself) and complex sentence structures, including extended participial modifiers (e.g., 'der von ihm geschriebene Artikel' - the article written by him), showcasing a deep, intuitive understanding of the language's mechanics.

At the C2 mastery level, the learner's command of 'schreiben' and its entire lexical field is virtually indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. They can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. The focus is on absolute precision, stylistic brilliance, and a deep understanding of the historical and cultural context of the written word in German. C2 learners can effortlessly navigate classic German literature, understanding archaic or poetic uses of the verb and its derivatives. They can write complex, highly structured texts that flow naturally and employ a wide range of stylistic devices to persuade, entertain, or inform effectively. They are fully aware of the subtle connotations of different writing-related verbs (e.g., the difference between 'verfassen', 'niederschreiben', and 'zu Papier bringen') and choose the exact right word for the desired impact. At this level, learners can play with the language, creating neologisms or using 'schreiben' in highly creative, unconventional ways within literary or academic contexts. They understand regional variations and historical shifts in spelling and writing conventions. Ultimately, at the C2 level, 'schreiben' is not just a tool for communication, but an instrument for sophisticated intellectual and artistic expression, mastered in all its complexity and depth.

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

schreiben en 30 secondes

The core meaning is the physical or digital act of forming letters and words to communicate.
It is a strong verb, requiring memorization of its irregular past tense forms: schrieb and geschrieben.
It frequently takes an accusative direct object (the text) and a dative indirect object (the recipient).
It forms the basis for many important prefixed verbs like beschreiben (describe) and unterschreiben (sign).

The German verb schreiben is one of the most fundamental and frequently used verbs in the language, serving as the primary term for the act of writing. At its core, it refers to the physical or digital process of forming letters, words, and sentences to communicate thoughts, record information, or express creativity. Understanding this verb is absolutely essential for any learner of German, as it forms the basis of countless daily interactions, from jotting down a simple grocery list to composing a formal business email or drafting a comprehensive academic essay. The concept of writing in German encompasses a wide array of activities, and the verb schreiben is versatile enough to cover almost all of them. When you learn this word, you are unlocking a crucial aspect of human communication.

Physical Writing: Using a pen, pencil, or marker to physically draw characters on paper or another surface, which is the traditional and historical meaning of the word.

Ich schreibe einen Brief an meine Großmutter mit einem blauen Stift.

Beyond the physical act, schreiben also applies to the modern digital landscape. Whether you are typing on a computer keyboard, tapping on a smartphone screen, or using a tablet, the verb remains the same. This adaptability highlights the enduring relevance of the word in contemporary society. Furthermore, schreiben can denote the cognitive process of authorship. When an author creates a novel, a journalist drafts an article, or a poet composes a verse, they are all engaged in the act of schreiben. This multifaceted nature makes it a cornerstone of both practical communication and artistic expression.

Digital Writing: Typing text on electronic devices such as computers, smartphones, or tablets, which has become the most common form of writing in the modern era.

Wir schreiben jeden Tag viele E-Mails im Büro.

Der berühmte Autor schreibt gerade an seinem neuen Roman.

The cultural significance of writing in the German-speaking world cannot be overstated. Germany is often referred to as the land of 'Dichter und Denker' (poets and thinkers), and the written word has played a pivotal role in shaping its history, philosophy, and literature. From the translation of the Bible by Martin Luther, which standardized the German language, to the masterpieces of Goethe and Schiller, the act of schreiben has been central to cultural development.

Authorship: The creative and intellectual process of composing literary, academic, or journalistic texts for publication or public consumption.

Sie schreibt einen Artikel für die lokale Zeitung über das Festival.

Bitte schreiben Sie Ihren Namen deutlich auf das Formular.

In summary, mastering the verb schreiben is a critical step in your language learning journey. It is a word that bridges the gap between the physical and the digital, the mundane and the profound. By understanding its various applications and nuances, you will be well-equipped to navigate a wide range of communicative situations in German, ensuring that your thoughts and ideas are effectively conveyed to others.

Using the verb schreiben correctly involves understanding its grammatical properties, its required cases, and the various prepositions it commonly pairs with. As a transitive verb, schreiben typically takes an accusative object, which represents the thing being written, such as a letter, a book, or a message. Additionally, it often takes a dative object to indicate the recipient of the writing. This dual-object structure is a fundamental aspect of German sentence construction and is crucial for clear communication. For example, in the sentence 'Ich schreibe dir einen Brief' (I am writing you a letter), 'dir' is the dative recipient and 'einen Brief' is the accusative direct object.

Accusative Object: The direct object of the sentence, representing the item that is being produced through the act of writing, such as a text, email, or note.

Er schreibt eine lange Nachricht auf seinem Handy.

The choice of prepositions can significantly alter the meaning and context of the verb. When you want to specify the topic of your writing, you use the preposition 'über' followed by the accusative case. For instance, 'Sie schreibt ein Buch über die Geschichte Roms' (She is writing a book about the history of Rome). If you are writing on a specific surface, you use 'auf' with the accusative or dative depending on the context of motion versus location. These prepositional phrases add depth and precision to your statements.

Preposition 'über': Used with the accusative case to indicate the subject matter or topic that the writing is focused on, translating to 'about' in English.

Der Journalist schreibt über die aktuellen politischen Ereignisse.

Wir schreiben unsere Antworten auf das Arbeitsblatt.

Conjugation is another critical area to master. As an irregular (strong) verb, schreiben undergoes a vowel change in the simple past (Präteritum) and the past participle (Partizip II). The present tense is regular: ich schreibe, du schreibst, er/sie/es schreibt, wir schreiben, ihr schreibt, sie/Sie schreiben. However, the simple past is 'schrieb' and the past participle is 'geschrieben'. This pattern (ei - ie - ie) is common among a specific group of strong verbs and is essential for forming past narratives and the perfect tense.

Past Participle: The form 'geschrieben' is used with the auxiliary verb 'haben' to form the conversational past tense (Perfekt), which is the most common past tense in spoken German.

Gestern habe ich drei wichtige E-Mails geschrieben.

Als Kind schrieb sie oft kleine Geschichten in ihr Tagebuch.

By familiarizing yourself with these grammatical structures, cases, and conjugations, you will be able to use schreiben with confidence and accuracy in any situation, ensuring your written German is both natural and grammatically sound.

The verb schreiben is ubiquitous in the German-speaking world, echoing through classrooms, offices, homes, and public spaces. Its presence is felt in almost every aspect of daily life, reflecting the importance of written communication in modern society. In educational settings, from elementary schools to universities, it is a constant directive. Teachers instruct students to write down notes, complete written assignments, and take exams. The phrase 'Wir schreiben heute einen Test' (We are writing a test today) is a familiar, sometimes dreaded, announcement for students of all ages. The academic environment relies heavily on the act of writing to assess knowledge and foster critical thinking.

Educational Context: Schools and universities where writing is a primary method of learning, assessment, and academic expression.

Die Studenten schreiben eine Klausur in Mathematik.

In the professional sphere, schreiben is equally pervasive. The modern workplace is driven by written correspondence, primarily in the form of emails, reports, and memos. Office workers spend a significant portion of their day writing to colleagues, clients, and management. Phrases like 'Ich schreibe Ihnen bezüglich...' (I am writing to you regarding...) are standard in formal business communication. The ability to write clearly and professionally is a highly valued skill in the German job market, making mastery of this verb and its associated vocabulary essential for career advancement.

Professional Context: The workplace environment where formal written communication is necessary for operations, documentation, and client relations.

Der Manager schreibt den wöchentlichen Bericht für die Geschäftsführung.

Bitte schreiben Sie mir eine kurze Bestätigung per E-Mail.

In personal and social contexts, the verb has adapted seamlessly to the digital age. While handwritten letters are less common, the act of writing has simply shifted to digital platforms. People constantly 'schreiben' on WhatsApp, social media, and SMS. The question 'Schreiben wir später?' (Shall we text later?) is a typical way to arrange future communication among friends. This informal, rapid-fire writing is a defining characteristic of modern social interaction, proving that the verb remains as relevant as ever, even as the medium changes.

Social Context: Informal, everyday communication between friends and family, heavily reliant on instant messaging and social media platforms.

Wir schreiben oft über WhatsApp miteinander.

Er schreibt einen Kommentar unter das Foto auf Instagram.

Whether you are navigating the bureaucratic hurdles of German administration, participating in a university seminar, or simply chatting with a friend online, you will encounter the verb schreiben continuously. Its universal application makes it a vital component of your active vocabulary.

While schreiben is a common verb, learners frequently encounter specific pitfalls when using it, particularly regarding conjugation, preposition usage, and distinguishing it from similar verbs. One of the most prevalent errors involves the irregular conjugation in the past tenses. Because the present tense is regular, beginners often mistakenly apply regular rules to the past, resulting in incorrect forms like 'geschreibt' instead of the correct past participle 'geschrieben', or 'schreibte' instead of the correct simple past 'schrieb'. Mastering the strong verb vowel change pattern (ei - ie - ie) is essential to overcome this hurdle and speak or write accurately about past events.

Conjugation Error: Applying weak (regular) verb endings to strong (irregular) verbs, a very common mistake for beginners learning past tenses.

FALSCH: Ich habe einen Brief geschreibt. RICHTIG: Ich habe einen Brief geschrieben.

Another frequent area of confusion is the use of prepositions and cases when indicating the recipient of the writing. English speakers often try to translate 'to write to someone' directly, leading to awkward or incorrect phrasing. In German, you can either use the dative case without a preposition (Ich schreibe meinem Freund) or the preposition 'an' with the accusative case (Ich schreibe an meinen Freund). Mixing these up, such as using 'an' with the dative (an meinem Freund) in this context, is a common grammatical error that can confuse native speakers.

Preposition and Case Error: Incorrectly matching the preposition 'an' with the dative case instead of the accusative case when expressing the direction of the writing.

FALSCH: Ich schreibe an dir. RICHTIG: Ich schreibe an dich.

FALSCH: Sie schreibt dem Firma. RICHTIG: Sie schreibt der Firma (Dativ feminin).

Finally, learners sometimes confuse schreiben with related verbs that have more specific meanings. For instance, 'aufschreiben' means to note down or record, while 'beschreiben' means to describe. Using the base verb schreiben when a more specific prefixed verb is required can make your German sound less precise. For example, if you want someone to describe a picture, saying 'Schreibe das Bild' is incorrect; you must use 'Beschreibe das Bild'. Understanding these nuances is key to advancing beyond a basic level of proficiency.

Prefix Confusion: Failing to use the appropriate prefixed verb (like beschreiben or aufschreiben) when the context demands a more specific meaning than just general writing.

FALSCH: Kannst du den Mann schreiben? RICHTIG: Kannst du den Mann beschreiben?

Bitte schreiben Sie die Vokabeln in Ihr Heft (or: schreiben Sie ... auf).

By being aware of these common mistakes—conjugation errors, prepositional mismatches, and prefix confusion—you can actively work to avoid them, thereby significantly improving the accuracy and natural flow of your written and spoken German.

The German language is rich in vocabulary related to writing, offering various synonyms and related terms that provide subtle distinctions in meaning. While schreiben is the general, all-encompassing term, knowing its alternatives allows for more precise and expressive communication. One common synonym is 'verfassen', which is typically used in more formal or literary contexts. It implies a more thoughtful, structured process of composing a text, such as an article, a report, or a legal document. You wouldn't 'verfassen' a quick text message, but you would 'verfassen' a thesis.

verfassen: To compose or draft a text, usually implying a formal, structured, or professional piece of writing rather than a casual note.

Der Anwalt muss noch den Vertrag verfassen.

Another related term is 'notieren', which means to note down or jot down. This verb is used when the focus is on recording information quickly for future reference, such as taking notes during a lecture or writing down a phone number. It emphasizes brevity and utility over composition. Similarly, 'aufschreiben' carries a very similar meaning to notieren, focusing on the act of putting something on paper so it isn't forgotten. These words are essential for classroom and meeting environments.

notieren: To jot down or make a note of something, emphasizing quick recording of facts or details rather than drafting a full text.

Bitte notieren Sie sich den Termin für das nächste Meeting.

Ich muss mir diese Idee sofort aufschreiben.

In the digital realm, the verb 'tippen' is frequently used. While it literally means to tap or type, it has become synonymous with writing on a keyboard or smartphone. If someone is writing an email on their computer, you might say they are 'am Tippen'. This distinction is useful when you want to specify the physical action of using a keyboard rather than writing by hand. Understanding these nuances allows you to paint a clearer picture of the action taking place.

tippen: To type on a keyboard or touchscreen, specifically denoting the digital method of inputting text.

Sie tippt sehr schnell auf ihrer neuen Tastatur.

Er hat den ganzen Text fehlerfrei getippt.

By incorporating these similar words into your vocabulary, you move beyond the basic utility of schreiben and begin to express yourself with the nuance and precision of a more advanced speaker, tailoring your language to the specific context of the situation.

How Formal Is It?

Formel

Informel

Argot

Niveau de difficulté

Grammaire à connaître

Exemples par niveau

Ich schreibe ein Buch.

I write a book.

Present tense, 1st person singular. 'ein Buch' is the accusative object.

Du schreibst sehr gut.

You write very well.

Present tense, 2nd person singular informal.

Er schreibt eine E-Mail.

He is writing an email.

Present tense, 3rd person singular masculine.

Wir schreiben einen Test.

We are writing a test.

Present tense, 1st person plural. 'einen Test' is accusative masculine.

Schreibt ihr die Hausaufgaben?

Are you (plural) writing the homework?

Present tense, 2nd person plural informal, used as a question.

Sie schreiben den Namen.

They write the name.

Present tense, 3rd person plural.

Schreiben Sie das bitte.

Please write that down. (Formal)

Imperative formal. Used for polite commands.

Ich schreibe einen Brief.

I am writing a letter.

'einen Brief' is the direct object in the accusative case.

Gestern habe ich einen Brief geschrieben.

Yesterday I wrote a letter.

Perfekt tense. Uses auxiliary 'haben' and past participle 'geschrieben'.

Sie hat eine lange Nachricht geschrieben.

She wrote a long message.

Perfekt tense, 3rd person singular.

Ich schreibe dir morgen.

I will write to you tomorrow.

'dir' is the dative pronoun indicating the recipient.

Wir schreiben eine Einladung für die Party.

We are writing an invitation for the party.

Using 'für' + accusative to indicate purpose.

Er schrieb seinen Namen auf das Papier.

He wrote his name on the paper.

Präteritum (simple past) tense 'schrieb'. 'auf das Papier' is accusative indicating direction.

Hast du die Vokabeln geschrieben?

Did you write the vocabulary words?

Question in the Perfekt tense.

Ich schreibe meiner Mutter eine Karte.

I am writing my mother a card.

Sentence with both dative (meiner Mutter) and accusative (eine Karte) objects.

Schreib mir, wenn du zu Hause bist.

Write me when you are home.

Imperative informal singular 'Schreib' combined with a subordinate 'wenn' clause.

Ich schreibe an meine Versicherung, weil ich einen Unfall hatte.

I am writing to my insurance company because I had an accident.

Use of 'an' + accusative for the recipient, combined with a 'weil' subordinate clause.

Der Autor schrieb den Roman in nur drei Monaten.

The author wrote the novel in just three months.

Präteritum tense, commonly used for narratives and written accounts.

Wir haben uns lange nicht geschrieben.

We haven't written to each other in a long time.

Reflexive use indicating reciprocal action (to each other).

Bitte schreiben Sie Ihre Meinung in die Kommentare.

Please write your opinion in the comments.

Formal imperative with directional preposition 'in' + accusative.

Er hat den Text fehlerfrei geschrieben.

He wrote the text without errors.

Use of the adjective/adverb 'fehlerfrei' to modify the verb.

Ich möchte dir schreiben, dass es mir gut geht.

I want to write to you that I am doing well.

Modal verb 'möchte' with infinitive 'schreiben' and a 'dass' clause.

Sie schreibt einen Artikel über den Klimawandel.

She is writing an article about climate change.

Preposition 'über' + accusative to indicate the topic.

Hast du dir die Adresse aufgeschrieben?

Did you write down the address?

Introduction of the separable prefix verb 'aufschreiben' in the Perfekt tense.

Der Bericht muss bis morgen geschrieben werden.

The report must be written by tomorrow.

Passive voice with a modal verb (muss ... geschrieben werden).

Der Arzt hat mir ein neues Medikament verschrieben.

The doctor prescribed me a new medication.

Use of the inseparable prefix verb 'verschreiben' (to prescribe).

Könnten Sie das bitte genauer beschreiben?

Could you please describe that more precisely?

Use of the inseparable prefix verb 'beschreiben' (to describe) in a polite request.

Es steht geschrieben, dass man hier nicht parken darf.

It is written that one is not allowed to park here.

Idiomatic passive-like construction 'Es steht geschrieben'.

Sie schreibt an ihrer Doktorarbeit im Bereich Biologie.

She is writing her doctoral thesis in the field of biology.

Use of 'an' + dative to indicate working on a long-term writing project.

Ich habe mich beim Tippen leider verschrieben.

Unfortunately, I made a typo while typing.

Reflexive use of 'verschreiben' meaning to make a writing mistake.

Der Vertrag wurde von beiden Parteien unterschrieben.

The contract was signed by both parties.

Passive voice in the Präteritum using the prefixed verb 'unterschreiben'.

Dieses Buch ist in einem sehr flüssigen Stil geschrieben.

This book is written in a very fluent style.

Zustandspassiv (statal passive) describing the condition of the book.

Dem Autor wird ein außergewöhnliches Talent zugeschrieben.

An extraordinary talent is attributed to the author.

Passive voice with the separable prefix verb 'zuschreiben' (to attribute).

Das offizielle Schreiben der Behörde enthielt unverständliches Beamtendeutsch.

The official letter from the authority contained incomprehensible bureaucratic German.

Nominalization 'das Schreiben' referring to a formal document.

In diesem Unternehmen wird Kundenservice großgeschrieben.

In this company, customer service is given high priority.

Idiomatic use of 'großschreiben' meaning to prioritize or value highly.

Er hat seine Gedanken in einem philosophischen Essay niedergeschrieben.

He wrote down his thoughts in a philosophical essay.

Use of the formal separable prefix verb 'niederschreiben'.

Die Vorschriften sind gesetzlich festgeschrieben.

The regulations are codified in law.

Use of 'festschreiben' indicating something is permanently recorded or mandated.

Sie verstand es meisterhaft, zwischen den Zeilen zu schreiben.

She was a master at writing between the lines.

Idiomatic expression 'zwischen den Zeilen schreiben' (implying hidden meanings).

Der Journalist umschrieb die heikle Situation mit diplomatischen Worten.

The journalist paraphrased the delicate situation with diplomatic words.

Inseparable prefix verb 'umschreiben' meaning to paraphrase or circumlocute.

Dieses Ereignis wird in die Geschichte eingeschrieben bleiben.

This event will remain inscribed in history.

Metaphorical use of 'einschreiben' combined with 'bleiben'.

Das Werk ist der Epoche der Romantik zuzuschreiben.

The work is to be attributed to the Romantic era.

Gerundive construction (zu + infinitive) indicating attribution.

Seine Ausführungen entbehren nicht einer gewissen literarischen Schreibkunst.

His explanations do not lack a certain literary art of writing.

Highly formal vocabulary ('entbehren', 'Schreibkunst') and complex syntax.

Der Vertragsklausel wurde stillschweigend Rechtsgültigkeit zugeschrieben.

The contract clause was tacitly attributed legal validity.

Advanced passive construction with abstract nouns.

Es gilt als ungeschriebenes Gesetz, dass man hier nicht widerspricht.

It is considered an unwritten law that one does not contradict here.

Use of the participial adjective 'ungeschrieben' in an idiomatic phrase.

Die Tragik der Figur ist ihr quasi auf den Leib geschrieben.

The tragedy of the character is practically written on her body (tailor-made for her).

Advanced idiom 'jemandem auf den Leib geschrieben sein' (to be tailor-made for someone).

Der Historiker hat die Chronik der Stadt akribisch fortgeschrieben.

The historian meticulously continued writing the city's chronicle.

Use of the separable prefix verb 'fortschreiben' (to continue writing/updating).

Ihre Handschrift ist kaum noch zu entziffern, so flüchtig ist sie geschrieben.

Her handwriting is barely decipherable, it is written so hastily.

Complex sentence combining a 'zu + infinitive' passive alternative with a descriptive clause.

Das Manifest schreibt eine radikale Umwälzung der bestehenden Ordnung vor.

The manifesto dictates a radical upheaval of the existing order.

Use of 'vorschreiben' (to dictate/mandate) in a political/historical context.

Collocations courantes

einen Brief schreiben

eine E-Mail schreiben

ein Buch schreiben

eine Prüfung schreiben

Geschichte schreiben

groß schreiben

klein schreiben

deutlich schreiben

leserlich schreiben

fehlerfrei schreiben

Phrases Courantes

Wie schreibt man das?

Schreib mir mal!

Wir schreiben uns.

Das schreibt sich mit Doppel-S.

Es steht geschrieben.

Schwarz auf weiß geschrieben.

Ins Reine schreiben.

Jemandem ein paar Zeilen schreiben.

Sich die Finger wund schreiben.

Etwas dem Zufall zuschreiben.

Souvent confondu avec

schreiben vs schreien (to scream)

schreiben vs reiben (to rub)

schreiben vs bleiben (to stay)

Expressions idiomatiques

Facile à confondre

schreiben vs

Structures de phrases

Comment l'utiliser

historical shifts

The transition from handwriting (mit der Hand schreiben) to typing (tippen) has broadened the daily application of the verb.

regional variants

In Switzerland, texting is often referred to as 'sömsle' (from SMS) or 'wätsele' (from WhatsApp), though 'schreiben' is universally understood.

Erreurs courantes

Conjugating it as a regular verb in the past (geschreibt instead of geschrieben).
Using the wrong preposition for the recipient (an dir instead of an dich).
Confusing 'schreiben' (to write) with 'schreien' (to scream).
Forgetting to capitalize 'Schreiben' when using it as a noun.
Using 'schreiben' when a specific prefixed verb like 'unterschreiben' (to sign) is required.

Astuces

Memorize the Vowel Shift

Group 'schreiben' with other strong verbs that follow the 'ei - ie - ie' pattern. Examples include bleiben (blieb, geblieben) and steigen (stieg, gestiegen). This makes memorizing irregular verbs much easier.

Dative vs. Accusative

Always remember the formula: 'jemandem (Dativ) etwas (Akkusativ) schreiben'. The person receiving the text is Dative, the text itself is Accusative. Example: Ich schreibe dir (Dat) eine SMS (Akk).

Learn the Prefixes

Don't just learn 'schreiben'. Learn its prefixed siblings at the same time: unterschreiben (sign), beschreiben (describe), aufschreiben (note down). They are incredibly common and expand your vocabulary rapidly.

Texting in German

When talking about chatting on WhatsApp or SMS, just use 'schreiben'. You don't need to translate 'texting' literally. 'Schreib mir!' is the perfect way to say 'Text me!'.

Formal Letters

When writing a formal letter or email, always start with 'Sehr geehrte(r)...' and end with 'Mit freundlichen Grüßen'. The verb 'schreiben' is often used in the opening: 'Ich schreibe Ihnen, weil...'.

IE vs EI

A common spelling mistake is confusing 'ie' and 'ei'. Remember that in German, the second vowel does the talking. 'ei' sounds like 'eye' (schreiben). 'ie' sounds like 'ee' (schrieb).

Listen for the Past Tense

In spoken German, people almost exclusively use the Perfekt tense (habe geschrieben) for past actions. If you hear the Präteritum (schrieb), it is likely a formal context, a news report, or a story.

Zwischen den Zeilen

Learn the idiom 'zwischen den Zeilen schreiben/lesen' (to write/read between the lines). It's a great phrase to use when discussing literature, politics, or subtle communication.

Passive Voice

'Schreiben' is frequently used in the passive voice, especially in academic or professional contexts. Practice forming sentences like 'Der Text wird geschrieben' (The text is being written).

Schriftlich is King

In Germany, if it isn't written down, it didn't happen. Important agreements, cancellations, and notices must be 'schriftlich' (in writing). Verbal agreements hold little weight in bureaucracy.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Imagine a SCRIBE with a PEN writing a document. SCRIBE -> SCHREIBEN.

Origine du mot

From Middle High German 'schrīben', from Old High German 'scrīban', borrowed from Latin 'scrībere' (to write, draw).

Contexte culturel

Germans distinguish strictly between formal (Sie) and informal (du) writing. Formal letters require specific greetings like 'Sehr geehrte(r)' and closings like 'Mit freundlichen Grüßen'.

Germany is known for its bureaucracy, which relies heavily on 'Schriftverkehr' (written correspondence). Important cancellations (e.g., gym memberships) often must be done 'schriftlich' (in writing).

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Amorces de conversation

"Schreibst du lieber E-Mails oder Briefe?"

"Wem hast du zuletzt eine Nachricht geschrieben?"

"Schreibst du ein Tagebuch?"

"Wie oft schreibst du mit deinen Eltern?"

"Hast du schon mal ein Gedicht geschrieben?"

Sujets d'écriture

Schreibe über deinen perfekten Tag.

Was hast du gestern gemacht? Schreibe einen kurzen Bericht.

Schreibe einen Brief an dein zukünftiges Ich.

Beschreibe dein Lieblingsbuch. Warum ist es gut geschrieben?

Schreibe drei Dinge auf, für die du heute dankbar bist.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

It is an irregular, or 'strong', verb. While its present tense follows regular ending patterns, its stem vowel changes in the past tenses. The simple past is 'schrieb' and the past participle is 'geschrieben'. You must memorize this 'ei-ie-ie' pattern.

You use the auxiliary verb 'haben'. For example, 'Ich habe einen Brief geschrieben' (I have written a letter). It does not indicate a change of state or motion, which are the typical triggers for using 'sein'.

You have two options. You can use the dative case directly: 'Ich schreibe meinem Freund' (I write to my friend). Alternatively, you can use the preposition 'an' followed by the accusative case: 'Ich schreibe an meinen Freund'. Both are correct and common.

'Schreiben' is the general word for writing, regardless of the medium. 'Tippen' specifically refers to typing on a keyboard or a touchscreen. You can say 'Ich schreibe eine E-Mail' or 'Ich tippe eine E-Mail', but you cannot 'tippen' with a pen.

Yes, absolutely. In modern everyday German, 'schreiben' is the most common way to say 'to text' or 'to message' someone on platforms like WhatsApp. For example, 'Wir schreiben später' means 'We will text later'.

It is a reflexive verb meaning to make a mistake while writing or typing (a typo). For example, 'Entschuldigung, ich habe mich verschrieben' means 'Sorry, I made a typo'. Without the reflexive pronoun, 'verschreiben' means to prescribe medication.

You use the preposition 'von' with the dative case. For example, 'Das Buch wurde von Goethe geschrieben' (The book was written by Goethe). You can also use it as an adjective: 'Ein von Goethe geschriebenes Buch'.

When capitalized, 'das Schreiben' is a noun. It can refer to the general act of writing, or it can mean an official document, formal letter, or dispatch. For instance, 'Ich habe ein Schreiben vom Finanzamt erhalten' (I received a letter from the tax office).

Informally to one person, you say 'Schreib das auf!'. Formally, you say 'Schreiben Sie das auf!'. To a group informally, it is 'Schreibt das auf!'. The prefix 'auf' emphasizes recording the information.

Literally, it means to capitalize a word (write it with a big letter). Metaphorically, as an idiom, it means to attach great importance to something. For example, 'Qualität wird bei uns großgeschrieben' means 'Quality is a top priority for us'.