B2 Verb Moods 19 min read Hard

German Indirect Speech (Konjunktiv I): Reporting What Others Say

Use Konjunktiv I to neutrally report someone else's words without claiming they are your own facts.
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Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds

Konjunktiv I is used to report what someone else said without taking responsibility for the truth of the statement.

  • Use Konjunktiv I for reported speech: 'Er sagt, er sei müde.'
  • If Konjunktiv I looks like Indicative, use Konjunktiv II: 'Sie sagten, sie kämen (not kommen).'
  • Keep the tense of the original statement relative to the reporting verb.
Subject + Reporting Verb + (dass) + Subject + Konjunktiv I Verb

Overview

German indirect speech, primarily expressed through the Konjunktiv I mood, is a sophisticated grammatical tool vital for conveying reported statements, thoughts, or beliefs while maintaining a crucial distance from their truth value. At the B2 CEFR level, mastering Konjunktiv I signifies a substantial step towards academic proficiency and formal communication in German. Its fundamental purpose is to signal that the information being conveyed originates from another source, not necessarily reflecting the speaker’s own conviction or confirmation of its veracity.

This mood is a cornerstone of objective reporting, academic citations, and nuanced discourse.

The existence of a dedicated grammatical mood for indirect speech highlights German's emphasis on precision and source attribution. Unlike English, which often relies on context or introductory phrases like "he claimed that..." to imply distance, German embeds this neutrality directly into the verb form. This allows you to present information as second-hand, effectively acting as a neutral messenger.

Understanding why this distinction is made—to differentiate between factual statements and reported information—is key to grasping its utility. It empowers you to navigate discussions where verifying facts isn't your role or intention, presenting what was said without necessarily endorsing it.

How This Grammar Works

Konjunktiv I functions as the primary mood for indirect speech (die indirekte Rede). It allows you to report what someone has said, asked, or thought, transforming their direct statement into a subordinate clause. The core mechanism involves a specific conjugation of the verb in the reported clause, which subtly alters its form to indicate its status as reported information rather than a direct assertion of fact.
Consider the difference between direct and indirect speech:
  • Direct Speech (Die direkte Rede): "Ich bin müde," sagte er. (I am tired," he said.)
  • Indirect Speech (Die indirekte Rede): Er sagte, er sei müde. (He said that he is tired.)
In the indirect example, the verb bin (from sein) transforms into sei. This change signals that you are relaying information. The reporting clause typically begins with a verb of speaking, thinking, or knowing, such as sagen (to say), meinen (to mean/think), glauben (to believe), fragen (to ask), behaupten (to claim), or erzählen (to tell).
Often, these reporting clauses are followed by a dass-clause, particularly in more casual or unambiguous contexts, but the true Konjunktiv I does not require dass.
When Konjunktiv I is used, the speaker essentially disclaims responsibility for the accuracy of the reported statement. This is crucial for maintaining objectivity, especially in fields like journalism or academia. If the reported statement is in the present or future, Konjunktiv I typically reflects this.
If the original statement was in the past, Konjunktiv I can still be used, but it will take a compound tense form (e.g., Perfect or Plusquamperfekt).
Tense Agreement in Indirect Speech:
  1. 1Reporting Present/Future Statements: If the original statement is in the present or future, the reported clause uses the Konjunktiv I Present.
  • Direct: "Ich gehe morgen ins Kino." (I am going to the cinema tomorrow.)
  • Indirect: Sie sagte, sie gehe morgen ins Kino. (She said that she is going to the cinema tomorrow.)
  1. 1Reporting Past Statements: If the original statement was in the past (Perfekt, Präteritum, Plusquamperfekt), the reported clause uses the Konjunktiv I Perfect or Plusquamperfekt.
  • Direct: "Ich bin gegangen." (I went.)
  • Indirect: Er sagte, er sei gegangen. (He said that he had gone.)
  1. 1Reporting Modal Verbs: Modal verbs often retain their Konjunktiv I forms if they are distinct. Otherwise, Konjunktiv II forms or Ersatzformen (würde + infinitive) are used.
  • Direct: "Ich kann das tun." (I can do that.)
  • Indirect: Sie sagte, sie könne das tun. (She said that she could do that.)
This system allows for precise reflection of the original statement's tense and mood while clearly marking it as reported speech. The distinction becomes particularly important when the Konjunktiv I form is identical to the Indikativ (regular present tense), in which case Konjunktiv II is often substituted to preserve the signal of indirectness.

Formation Pattern

1
Forming Konjunktiv I generally follows a straightforward pattern, deriving from the infinitive stem of the verb. This mood largely avoids the vowel changes (Umlaut) characteristic of Konjunktiv II for strong verbs, making its formation more consistent in many cases. The key is to identify the verb's stem and apply the appropriate Konjunktiv I endings.
2
1. Regular Verbs (Weak Verbs):
3
Remove the -en (or -n) from the infinitive to get the stem, then add the specific Konjunktiv I endings.
4
| Person | Ending | Example: sagen (to say) |
5
| :----------- | :----- | :---------------------- |
6
| ich | -e | ich sage |
7
| du | -est | du sagest |
8
| er/sie/es | -e | er/sie/es sage |
9
| wir | -en | wir sagen |
10
| ihr | -et | ihr saget |
11
| sie/Sie | -en | sie/Sie sagen |
12
Important Note: For ich, wir, and sie/Sie, the Konjunktiv I forms are often identical to the Indikativ Present forms. For example, ich sage is both Indikativ and Konjunktiv I. To avoid ambiguity and clearly signal indirect speech, particularly in informal or journalistic contexts, speakers often opt for the Konjunktiv II equivalent or the würde + infinitive construction when the Konjunktiv I form is identical to the Indikativ.
13
2. Irregular Verbs (Strong Verbs):
14
Strong verbs also use their infinitive stem, crucially without the vowel changes often seen in their Indikativ Present or Präteritum forms, or in Konjunktiv II. For example, fahren (to drive) does not become fähre (which would be Konjunktiv II).
15
| Person | Ending | Example: fahren (to drive) |
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| :----------- | :----- | :------------------------- |
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| ich | -e | ich fahre |
18
| du | -est | du fahrest |
19
| er/sie/es | -e | er/sie/es fahre |
20
| wir | -en | wir fahren |
21
| ihr | -et | ihr fahret |
22
| sie/Sie | -en | sie/Sie fahren |
23
Notice that the er/sie/es form (fahre) is distinct from the Indikativ (fährt), making it a clear signal of Konjunktiv I. Similarly for schreiben (to write): er schreibe vs. er schreibt.
24
3. Auxiliary Verbs (Hilfsverben):
25
These verbs are fundamental for forming compound tenses and are crucial for Konjunktiv I.
26
haben (to have)
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| Person | Form |
28
| :----------- | :------ |
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| ich | habe |
30
| du | habest|
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| er/sie/es | habe |
32
| wir | haben |
33
| ihr | habet |
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| sie/Sie | haben |
35
sein (to be)
36
This is the most irregular and frequently used Konjunktiv I form. er/sie/es sei is particularly important.
37
| Person | Form |
38
| :----------- | :------ |
39
| ich | sei |
40
| du | seiest|
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| er/sie/es | sei |
42
| wir | seien |
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| ihr | seiet |
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| sie/Sie | seien |
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werden (to become / auxiliary for future/passive)
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| Person | Form |
47
| :----------- | :------ |
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| ich | werde |
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| du | werdest|
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| er/sie/es | werde |
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| wir | werden|
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| ihr | werdet|
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| sie/Sie | werden|
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4. Modal Verbs (Modalverben):
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Modal verbs in Konjunktiv I are often identical to their Indikativ Present forms, especially for ich and wir. When distinct forms exist (primarily for er/sie/es), they are used. If the Konjunktiv I form is identical to Indikativ, Konjunktiv II or würde + infinitive replacements are common.
56
| Modal Verb | er/sie/es Konjunktiv I | er/sie/es Indikativ Present |
57
| :----------- | :----------------------- | :---------------------------- |
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| können | er könne | er kann |
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| dürfen | er dürfe | er darf |
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| müssen | er müsse | er muss |
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| sollen | er solle | er soll |
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| wollen | er wolle | er will |
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| mögen | er möge | er mag |
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5. Compound Tenses (Zusammengesetzte Zeiten):
65
Konjunktiv I is used to report statements that originally occurred in the past or will occur in the future. This requires using the Konjunktiv I forms of the auxiliary verbs haben, sein, or werden with the main verb's participle or infinitive.
66
Perfekt Konjunktiv I: haben/sein (Konjunktiv I) + Partizip II
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Direct: "Ich habe das gesehen." (I saw that.)
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Indirect: Er sagte, er habe das gesehen. (He said that he had seen that.)
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Plusquamperfekt Konjunktiv I: This form is technically possible but rarely used, as Perfekt Konjunktiv I often suffices to indicate a past action. It would involve haben/sein in the Konjunktiv I Präteritum (which is typically Konjunktiv II forms) + Partizip II.
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Futur I Konjunktiv I: werden (Konjunktiv I) + Infinitive
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Direct: "Ich werde morgen kommen." (I will come tomorrow.)
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Indirect: Sie meinte, sie werde morgen kommen. (She thought that she would come tomorrow.)
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Passiv Konjunktiv I: werden (Konjunktiv I) + Partizip II + werden (infinitive)
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Direct: "Das Buch wird gelesen." (The book is being read.)
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Indirect: Er behauptete, das Buch werde gelesen. (He claimed that the book was being read.)
76
These compound forms ensure that the reported statement accurately reflects its original tense while signaling its indirect nature. The er/sie/es forms of haben, sein, and werden in Konjunktiv I are particularly critical for these constructions.

When To Use It

Konjunktiv I is primarily employed in contexts demanding objectivity, neutrality, and clear attribution of information. Its usage signifies that the speaker is merely relaying another person's words or thoughts, rather than asserting them as personal facts. This makes it indispensable in specific communication domains at a B2 level and beyond.
  1. 1Journalism and News Reporting: This is arguably the most common domain for Konjunktiv I. Journalists use it extensively to quote sources, report statements from politicians, experts, or witnesses, and to relay news without confirming the absolute truth of the statement. This protects the news outlet from accusations of misrepresentation.
  • Example: Der Ministerpräsident betonte, die Wirtschaft sei stabil. (The prime minister stressed that the economy is stable.)
  • Example: Die Polizei gab bekannt, die Ermittlungen würden fortgesetzt. (The police announced that the investigations would be continued. – using Konjunktiv II as replacement for clarity).
  1. 1Academic and Scientific Writing: When citing research, summarizing theories, or reporting experimental results, Konjunktiv I is crucial for distinguishing between your own conclusions and the findings or claims of others. It ensures academic integrity and precision.
  • Example: Die Studie zeige, der Klimawandel habe gravierende Auswirkungen. (The study shows that climate change has serious impacts.)
  • Example: Laut Professor Müller sei die Hypothese noch nicht bewiesen. (According to Professor Müller, the hypothesis is not yet proven.)
  1. 1Formal Statements and Official Documents: In legal texts, official announcements, or diplomatic correspondence, Konjunktiv I contributes to the formal tone and precise communication of relayed information, ensuring that statements are understood as attributable to a specific source.
  • Example: Die Botschaft erklärte, die Situation werde genau beobachtet. (The embassy declared that the situation is being closely monitored.)
  1. 1Reporting Questions and Requests Indirectly: While direct questions typically use fragen, ob... or fragen, wann... with Indikativ, Konjunktiv I can be used, particularly for polite or formal requests/questions. For imperative reported speech, sollen or mögen in Konjunktiv I are frequently used.
  • Example: Er bat, man möge die Tür schließen. (He asked that one close the door.)
  • Example: Sie fragte, wo er gewesen sei. (She asked where he had been.)
  1. 1Distancing from a Statement: When you want to convey a statement but subtly imply doubt or express that you do not personally endorse its truthfulness, Konjunktiv I is an excellent choice. This is its core linguistic function.
  • Example: Man sage, der neue Chef sei sehr streng. (It is said that the new boss is very strict. – implying a rumor or unconfirmed report).
In essence, use Konjunktiv I whenever the emphasis is on the act of reporting rather than the absolute truth of the reported content. It adds a layer of professionalism and analytical distance to your German.

Common Mistakes

Even advanced learners and sometimes native speakers can find aspects of Konjunktiv I challenging. At the B2 level, recognizing and avoiding these common pitfalls will significantly enhance your accuracy and fluency.
  1. 1Confusing Konjunktiv I with Konjunktiv II: This is the most prevalent error. Remember the fundamental distinction:
  • Konjunktiv I: For indirect speech (reported statements, thoughts, questions). It signals neutrality and attribution to another source.
  • Example: Er sagte, er sei krank. (He said that he is sick.)
  • Konjunktiv II: For hypothetical, unreal, or polite statements (wishes, conditions contrary to fact, polite requests). It signals distance from reality or expresses politeness.
  • Example: Wenn ich Zeit hätte, würde ich dich besuchen. (If I had time, I would visit you.)
The forms often overlap, particularly for weaker verbs, leading to confusion. Always ask yourself: Am I reporting something, or am I talking about something hypothetical?
  1. 1Failure to Use Konjunktiv II as an Ersatzform (Replacement Form): This is crucial for clarity. When the Konjunktiv I form of a verb is identical to its Indikativ Present form (which happens for ich, wir, sie/Sie for most verbs, and du, ihr for some, as well as er/sie/es for sollen), German speakers always resort to Konjunktiv II (or the würde + infinitive construction) to unambiguously signal indirect speech. Failing to do so makes your indirect statement sound like a factual assertion.
  • Incorrect: Sie sagte, wir gehen ins Kino. (Sounds like: She said we are going to the cinema. – as a fact)
  • Correct: Sie sagte, wir gingen ins Kino. (Konjunktiv II Präteritum)
  • More common/alternative: Sie sagte, wir würden ins Kino gehen. (She said that we would go to the cinema.)
  1. 1Incorrect Formation of Irregular Verbs, especially sein: The verb sein is highly irregular, and its Konjunktiv I forms (sei, seiest, sei, seien, seiet, seien) are frequently confused. Remember that er sei is a distinct and frequently used form that signals indirectness clearly.
  • Incorrect: Er behauptet, es seie zu spät. (No, seie is not a Konjunktiv I form of sein)
  • Correct: Er behauptet, es sei zu spät. (He claims that it is too late.)
  1. 1Overuse in Casual Conversation: While essential for formal contexts, Konjunktiv I sounds overly stiff and unnatural in informal daily conversations. In such situations, using a dass-clause with the Indikativ is far more common and acceptable.
  • Formal: Mein Freund sagte, er habe keine Zeit.
  • Casual: Mein Freund sagte, dass er keine Zeit hat. (This is how most Germans would phrase it to a friend).
  • Using Konjunktiv I in casual settings might make you sound like you're reading from a newspaper or being overly pedantic, which can hinder natural communication.
  1. 1Confusing Tense with Mood: Ensure you apply the Konjunktiv I forms to the correct tense structure for the reported event. For a past event, use Konjunktiv I Perfekt; for a future event, use Konjunktiv I Futur I. Don't simply use Konjunktiv I Present for everything.
  • Original: "Ich war gestern im Supermarkt."
  • Incorrect: Sie sagte, sie sei gestern im Supermarkt. (Implies she is in the supermarket now)
  • Correct: Sie sagte, sie sei gewesen gestern im Supermarkt. (She said that she had been in the supermarket yesterday.)
  1. 1Incorrect Word Order in dass-clauses: When using dass with indirect speech, remember the subordinate clause word order: the conjugated verb (even Konjunktiv I) goes to the very end.
  • Incorrect: Er meinte, dass er habe keine Zeit.
  • Correct: Er meinte, dass er keine Zeit habe.
By being mindful of these common mistakes, you can significantly refine your use of Konjunktiv I and communicate with greater precision and nuance in German.

Real Conversations

While Konjunktiv I is primarily a feature of written and formal spoken German, its appearance in various communicative settings reflects different levels of formality and intent. Understanding its practical application beyond textbook examples is crucial for B2 learners.

1. The Newsroom and Public Discourse (Formal Written/Spoken):

This is the domain where Konjunktiv I truly thrives. News anchors, journalists, political commentators, and official spokespersons rely heavily on it to present information objectively. It allows them to report facts, statements, and accusations without taking personal responsibility for their truthfulness. This is a crucial element of the journalistic code of conduct in Germany.

- Der Wetterbericht meldet, es werde morgen schneien. (The weather report announces that it will snow tomorrow.)

- Die Opposition fordert, der Bundeskanzler trete zurück. (The opposition demands that the chancellor resign. – formal language, using Konjunktiv I for a demand/request)

2. Academic and Professional Settings (Formal Written):

In scientific papers, university lectures, and professional reports, Konjunktiv I is essential for referencing sources, summarizing research, and attributing opinions. It distinguishes between your own findings and the work of others, maintaining intellectual honesty.

- Die Forscher erklären, ihre Ergebnisse seien bahnbrechend. (The researchers explain that their results are groundbreaking.)

- In der Sitzung wurde beschlossen, dass der nächste Schritt die Planung sei. (In the meeting it was decided that the next step be the planning. – formal decision reporting)

3. Everyday German and Ersatzformen (Casual/Informal Spoken/Written):

In everyday, informal spoken German, and even in many written communications like emails or social media posts, Konjunktiv I is significantly less common. Native speakers often prefer the dass-clause with the Indikativ (regular tense) or, importantly, use Konjunktiv II as an Ersatzform (replacement form) when Konjunktiv I would be identical to Indikativ.

Why Ersatzformen? The primary function of Konjunktiv I is to signal indirect speech. If the Konjunktiv I form is indistinguishable from the Indikativ, this signal is lost. Therefore, Konjunktiv II forms (or würde + infinitive) step in to provide the necessary distinction. This is not because the situation is hypothetical, but purely for grammatical clarity.

| Verb | Indikativ Present (er) | Konjunktiv I (er) | Konjunktiv II (er) | würde + Infinitive (er) |

| :----------- | :--------------------- | :------------------ | :------------------- | :-------------------------- |

| sagen | sagt | sage | sagte | würde sagen |

| machen | macht | mache | machte | würde machen |

| gehen | geht | gehe | ginge | würde gehen |

| haben | hat | habe | hätte | würde haben |

| sein | ist | sei | wäre | – (not common for sein) |

- If Konjunktiv I is distinct (e.g., er sage, er habe, er sei), it is typically used.

- Sie sagte, er habe das gehört. (She said he heard that.)

- Er meinte, es sei zu teuer. (He thought it was too expensive.)

- If Konjunktiv I is identical to Indikativ (e.g., wir sagen, ich mache), then Konjunktiv II or würde + infinitive is preferred.

- Original: "Wir gehen morgen."

- Konjunktiv I (wir gehen) is identical to Indikativ.

- Replacement: Er sagte, wir gingen morgen. (Konjunktiv II)

- More common replacement: Er sagte, wir würden morgen gehen. (He said we would go tomorrow.)

C

Cultural Insight

The German language values explicitness. When a grammatical signal (Konjunktiv I) becomes ambiguous due to form identity, a clearer signal (Konjunktiv II or würde) is employed. This isn't a sign of Konjunktiv I dying out, but rather an adaptation to maintain its core function of marking indirectness.

In informal communication, particularly with friends or family, you will often hear simpler constructions like:

- Sie hat gesagt, sie kommt später. (Using Indikativ in a dass-clause implies the speaker believes the statement to be true or is not emphasizing neutrality.)

- Er meinte, er geht jetzt.

While this casual usage is widespread, understanding and being able to apply Konjunktiv I (and its Ersatzformen) in formal contexts is a hallmark of advanced German proficiency.

Quick FAQ

Q: What's the fundamental difference between Konjunktiv I and Konjunktiv II?

Konjunktiv I is used for indirect speech, reporting what someone said, thought, or claimed, emphasizing neutrality and attribution to a source. Konjunktiv II is for hypothetical, unreal, or polite statements – things that would or could happen, or polite requests, signaling distance from reality. They serve entirely different purposes, even if their forms sometimes overlap.

Q: Why do Germans often use Konjunktiv II forms when they are reporting speech?

This occurs when the Konjunktiv I form is identical to the Indikativ Present form. For example, ich gehe is both Indikativ and Konjunktiv I. To clearly signal that it is indirect speech, speakers use the distinct Konjunktiv II form (ich ginge) or the würde + infinitive construction (ich würde gehen) as an Ersatzform (replacement form). This ensures the indirect speech signal is never lost.

Q: Do I always have to use dass with Konjunktiv I?

No. Konjunktiv I is often used without dass, especially in formal written language or news reporting. When dass is omitted, the verb in the indirect clause moves to the second position, similar to a main clause. For example: Er sagte, er habe keine Zeit. (He said he had no time.)

Q: Can I use Konjunktiv I to report questions?

Yes, you can. When reporting an indirect question, you typically use an introductory phrase like fragen, ob... (for yes/no questions) or fragen with a W-word, and the verb in the subordinate clause will be in Konjunktiv I. For example: Sie fragte, ob er käme. (She asked if he would come.) or Er fragte, wie lange es dauere. (He asked how long it would take.)

Q: Is Konjunktiv I used for commands or requests?

Yes. When reporting an imperative or a request, you often use sollen or mögen in Konjunktiv I to convey the indirect command or wish. For example: Der Lehrer sagte, die Schüler sollen ihre Hausaufgaben machen. (The teacher said the students should do their homework.) or Er bat, man möge die Tür schließen. (He asked that one close the door.)

Q: How important is Konjunktiv I for B2 learners? Should I actively use it?

For B2 learners, it is critically important to recognize and understand Konjunktiv I, especially in formal written and broadcast media. Active production is also expected in formal writing and oral presentations. While you won't use it constantly in casual conversation (where dass + Indikativ is more common), being able to deploy it correctly demonstrates a high level of grammatical precision and sophistication, particularly in academic or professional contexts. It is a key indicator of advanced German proficiency.

Q: What about Konjunktiv I in the past tense?

To report a past event using Konjunktiv I, you form the Konjunktiv I Perfect or Plusquamperfekt. This involves using the Konjunktiv I forms of haben or sein as auxiliaries, followed by the main verb's Partizip II. For example: Sie behauptet, er habe geschlafen. (She claims he slept.) or Er sagte, sie sei angekommen. (He said she had arrived.)

Q: Are there any verbs that are always distinct in Konjunktiv I?

The auxiliary verbs haben, sein, and werden almost always have distinct Konjunktiv I forms, particularly in the er/sie/es singular. sein (with sei) is especially unique and crucial. Most modal verbs also have distinct er/sie/es Konjunktiv I forms (e.g., könne, dürfe, müsse, solle, wolle, möge). For regular verbs and many strong verbs, the distinction usually exists in the er/sie/es form as well, making these the most reliable forms for signaling Konjunktiv I.

Konjunktiv I Conjugation (sein)

Person Konjunktiv I
ich
sei
du
seiest
er/sie/es
sei
wir
seien
ihr
seiet
sie/Sie
seien

Meanings

Konjunktiv I is the grammatical mood used in German to report the words or thoughts of others. It signals that the information is being relayed rather than stated as an objective fact.

1

Reported Speech

Relaying information from a third party.

“Sie sagt, sie komme morgen.”

“Er meinte, er habe keine Zeit.”

Reference Table

Reference table for German Indirect Speech (Konjunktiv I): Reporting What Others Say
Form Structure Example
Affirmative
Subj + Verb(K1)
Er sagt, er sei müde.
Negative
Subj + nicht + Verb(K1)
Er sagt, er sei nicht müde.
Question
Reporting Verb + Subj + K1
Fragt er, ob er müde sei?
Past
Subj + habe/sei + Partizip
Er sagt, er habe es getan.

Formality Spectrum

Formal
Er gibt an, er komme.

Er gibt an, er komme. (Reporting arrival)

Neutral
Er sagt, er komme.

Er sagt, er komme. (Reporting arrival)

Informal
Er sagt, er kommt.

Er sagt, er kommt. (Reporting arrival)

Slang
Er meint, er kommt.

Er meint, er kommt. (Reporting arrival)

Indirect Speech Logic

Konjunktiv I

Usage

  • News Journalism
  • Reports Official docs

Goal

  • Neutrality Distance
  • Accuracy Reporting
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Examples by Level

1

Er sagt, er sei müde.

He says he is tired.

2

Sie sagt, sie habe Hunger.

She says she is hungry.

3

Er sagt, er komme.

He says he is coming.

4

Sie sagt, sie gehe.

She says she is going.

1

Der Lehrer sagt, die Prüfung sei schwer.

The teacher says the exam is hard.

2

Sie meint, sie habe das {das|n} Geld.

She thinks she has the money.

3

Er sagt, er wisse die Antwort.

He says he knows the answer.

4

Sie sagt, sie könne kommen.

She says she can come.

1

Die Zeitung berichtet, der Minister sei zurückgetreten.

The newspaper reports the minister has resigned.

2

Er behauptet, er habe den {der|m} Fehler nicht gemacht.

He claims he didn't make the mistake.

3

Sie sagten, sie kämen später.

They said they would come later.

4

Er sagte, er habe keine Zeit gehabt.

He said he hadn't had time.

1

Der Zeuge gab an, er habe den {der|m} Täter gesehen.

The witness stated he had seen the perpetrator.

2

Die Firma teilte mit, man werde die {die|f} Produktion steigern.

The company announced they would increase production.

3

Es hieß, die {die|f} Preise seien gestiegen.

It was said that prices had risen.

4

Sie versicherte, sie habe alles vorbereitet.

She assured that she had prepared everything.

1

Man munkelt, der {der|m} CEO plane eine {die|f} Übernahme.

Rumor has it the CEO is planning an acquisition.

2

Der Bericht legt nahe, dass die {die|f} Inflation sinken werde.

The report suggests that inflation will decrease.

3

Er betonte, er sei sich der {die|f} Konsequenzen bewusst.

He emphasized that he was aware of the consequences.

4

Es wurde behauptet, die {die|f} Entscheidung sei bereits gefallen.

It was claimed that the decision had already been made.

1

Der Autor führt aus, die {die|f} Struktur des {das|n} Werkes sei von zentraler Bedeutung.

The author elaborates that the structure of the work is of central importance.

2

Es sei darauf hingewiesen, dass die {die|f} Frist abgelaufen sei.

It should be pointed out that the deadline has expired.

3

Man habe, so die {die|f} Quelle, die {die|f} Beweise vernichtet.

The source claims that the evidence was destroyed.

4

Die {die|f} Regierung verlautbarte, man werde keine {die|f} Zugeständnisse machen.

The government announced that they would make no concessions.

Easily Confused

German Indirect Speech (Konjunktiv I): Reporting What Others Say vs Konjunktiv I vs. Konjunktiv II

Learners mix them up because K2 is used as a substitute for K1.

German Indirect Speech (Konjunktiv I): Reporting What Others Say vs Konjunktiv I vs. Indicative

Learners use indicative for everything.

German Indirect Speech (Konjunktiv I): Reporting What Others Say vs Direct vs. Indirect Speech

Mixing direct quotes with indirect grammar.

Common Mistakes

✗

Er sagt, er ist müde.

✓

Er sagt, er sei müde.

Indicative is for facts.
✗

Sie sagt, sie kommt.

✓

Sie sagt, sie komme.

Use K1 for reporting.
✗

Er hat gesagt, er ist da.

✓

Er hat gesagt, er sei da.

Reporting requires K1.
✗

Sie sagen, sie sind fertig.

✓

Sie sagen, sie seien fertig.

Plural K1 is required.
✗

Er sagt, er habe Hunger.

✓

Er sagt, er habe Hunger.

This is actually correct, but often confused with 'hat'.
✗

Sie meinten, sie kommen.

✓

Sie meinten, sie kämen.

Must use K2 if K1 is ambiguous.
✗

Er sagt, er sei gewesen.

✓

Er sagt, er sei gewesen.

Correct, but often forgotten.
✗

Sie sagten, sie kommen.

✓

Sie sagten, sie kämen.

K1 'kommen' = Indicative 'kommen'.
✗

Er sagte, er habe es gemacht.

✓

Er sagte, er habe es gemacht.

Correct, but often learners use indicative.
✗

Sie behaupten, sie sind reich.

✓

Sie behaupten, sie seien reich.

Use K1 for claims.
✗

Er sagt, er würde kommen.

✓

Er sagt, er werde kommen.

Future reported speech uses 'werde'.
✗

Man sagt, die {die|f} Welt ist rund.

✓

Man sagt, die {die|f} Welt sei rund.

Even for facts, reporting requires K1.
✗

Er sagte, er hätte es getan.

✓

Er sagte, er habe es getan.

K1 perfect is 'habe + Partizip'.
✗

Sie sagten, sie wären gekommen.

✓

Sie sagten, sie seien gekommen.

K1 perfect is 'seien + Partizip'.

Sentence Patterns

Er sagt, er ___ ___.

Sie behaupten, sie ___ ___.

Man sagt, die {die|f} Lage ___ ___.

Der Bericht besagt, er ___ ___ ___.

Real World Usage

News Broadcast constant

Der Minister sagte, er werde zurücktreten.

Academic Paper very common

Die Studie zeigt, die {die|f} Daten seien korrekt.

Job Interview common

Ich habe gehört, die {die|f} Firma suche neue Mitarbeiter.

Legal Testimony common

Der Zeuge gab an, er habe den {der|m} Täter gesehen.

Social Media occasional

Man sagt, das {das|n} Konzert sei toll gewesen.

Texting occasional

Er meinte, er sei bald da.

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💡

When in doubt, use K2

If you aren't sure if your K1 form is correct or if it sounds like the indicative, use K2.
⚠️

Don't overdo it

In casual conversation, K1 can sound stiff. Use it for formal situations.
🎯

Focus on 'sein'

The verb 'sein' is the most common K1 verb. Master 'sei' and 'seien' first.
💬

Journalistic standard

If you want to sound like a German journalist, Konjunktiv I is your best friend.

Smart Tips

Use the K1 form directly.

Er sagt, er ist müde. → Er sagt, er sei müde.

Switch to K2.

Sie sagen, sie kommen. → Sie sagen, sie kämen.

Use 'habe/sei' + Partizip.

Er sagte, er hat es gemacht. → Er sagte, er habe es gemacht.

Use 'werde' + infinitive.

Er sagte, er wird kommen. → Er sagte, er werde kommen.

Pronunciation

kom-meh

Ending -e

Pronounced clearly as a schwa sound.

Reporting clause

Er sagt, ↗ er komme.

Rising intonation on the reporting verb.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of Konjunktiv I as 'The Reporter's Mood'—it keeps your hands clean of the facts.

Visual Association

Imagine a reporter holding a microphone with a 'K1' label, standing between two people. The reporter is just the messenger, not the source.

Rhyme

When you report what others say, use Konjunktiv I to lead the way.

Story

A journalist named Karl is interviewing a politician. Karl uses Konjunktiv I to report the politician's claims. Because Karl uses Konjunktiv I, the readers know Karl is just reporting, not agreeing.

Word Web

seihabewerdekommegehewisse

Challenge

Find a news headline in German and rewrite it using Konjunktiv I.

Cultural Notes

Konjunktiv I is mandatory in news reports to maintain objectivity.

Used to cite other researchers without claiming their findings as your own.

Used to report what a witness said in court.

Konjunktiv I stems from the Old High German optative mood, used for wishes and possibilities.

Conversation Starters

“

Was hat dein {der|m} Freund gesagt?

“

Was berichten die {die|f} Nachrichten heute?

“

Was hat der {der|m} Lehrer über die {die|f} Prüfung gesagt?

“

Was behaupten die {die|f} Politiker?

Journal Prompts

Write about a rumor you heard.
Summarize a news article.
Report a conversation you had.
Discuss a scientific claim.

Common Mistakes

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

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Test Yourself

Fill in the correct K1 form of 'sein'.

Er sagt, er ___ müde.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: sei
K1 for 3rd person singular is 'sei'.
Choose the correct reporting form. Multiple Choice

Sie sagen, sie ___ fertig.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: seien
K1 for 3rd person plural is 'seien'.
Correct the sentence. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

Er sagte, er kommt.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Er sagte, er käme.
K1 'komme' is identical to indicative, so use K2 'käme'.
Transform into indirect speech. Sentence Transformation

Er sagt: 'Ich habe Hunger.'

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Er sagt, er habe Hunger.
K1 for 'haben' is 'habe'.
Is this rule correct? True False Rule

Konjunktiv I is used for facts.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: False
Konjunktiv I is for reported speech.
Complete the dialogue. Dialogue Completion

A: Was hat er gesagt? B: Er hat gesagt, er ___.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: komme
K1 is required for reported speech.
Order the words. Sentence Building

er / sei / sagt / müde / er

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Er sagt, er sei müde.
Correct word order for indirect speech.
Conjugate 'haben' in K1 (3rd person plural). Conjugation Drill

Sie sagen, sie ___ Zeit.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: hätten
Wait, K1 for 'haben' is 'haben'. Actually, 'hätten' is K2. Let's re-evaluate: K1 is 'haben'.

Score: /8

Practice Exercises

8 exercises
Fill in the correct K1 form of 'sein'.

Er sagt, er ___ müde.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: sei
K1 for 3rd person singular is 'sei'.
Choose the correct reporting form. Multiple Choice

Sie sagen, sie ___ fertig.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: seien
K1 for 3rd person plural is 'seien'.
Correct the sentence. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

Er sagte, er kommt.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Er sagte, er käme.
K1 'komme' is identical to indicative, so use K2 'käme'.
Transform into indirect speech. Sentence Transformation

Er sagt: 'Ich habe Hunger.'

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Er sagt, er habe Hunger.
K1 for 'haben' is 'habe'.
Is this rule correct? True False Rule

Konjunktiv I is used for facts.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: False
Konjunktiv I is for reported speech.
Complete the dialogue. Dialogue Completion

A: Was hat er gesagt? B: Er hat gesagt, er ___.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: komme
K1 is required for reported speech.
Order the words. Sentence Building

er / sei / sagt / müde / er

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Er sagt, er sei müde.
Correct word order for indirect speech.
Conjugate 'haben' in K1 (3rd person plural). Conjugation Drill

Sie sagen, sie ___ Zeit.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: hätten
Wait, K1 for 'haben' is 'haben'. Actually, 'hätten' is K2. Let's re-evaluate: K1 is 'haben'.

Score: /8

Practice Bank

6 exercises
Complete the sentence: Er behauptet, er ___ (wissen) die Antwort. Fill in the Blank

Er behauptet, er ___ die Antwort.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: wisse
Translate to German using Konjunktiv I: 'She says she is happy.' Translation

She says she is happy.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Sie sagt, sie sei glücklich.
Select the correct form for 'sie' (plural). Multiple Choice

Der Bericht meldet, die Aktien ___.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: steigen
Correct the mistake in this news report sentence. Error Correction

Die Polizei sagt, der Dieb seiest gefasst.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Die Polizei sagt, der Dieb sei gefasst.
Order the words to form a reported sentence. Sentence Reorder

sagt / er / habe / Hunger / er

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Er sagt, er habe Hunger.
Match the Indicative with its Konjunktiv I counterpart. Match Pairs

Match the forms:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: er ist -> er sei

Score: /6

FAQ (8)

It is essential for formal reporting and journalism in German.

Rarely. It sounds very formal.

You sound like you are stating a fact, not reporting.

When the K1 form is identical to the indicative.

The endings are regular, but the usage rules are specific.

Yes, in formal business emails.

English uses tense backshifting; German uses mood.

Yes, to report character thoughts or speech.

Scaffolded Practice

1

1

2

2

3

3

4

4

Mastery Progress

Needs Practice

Improving

Strong

Mastered

Sign up free to practice

In Other Languages

Spanish partial

Subjuntivo

Spanish subjunctive is for subjectivity; German K1 is for neutrality.

French low

Subjonctif

French doesn't have a specific mood for reported speech.

Japanese moderate

Sou-da / Tte

Japanese uses particles, German uses verb mood.

Arabic low

Qala inna...

Arabic uses particles, not verb moods.

Chinese none

Shuo...

Chinese has no verb conjugation.

English low

Reported Speech

English changes tense; German changes mood.

Learning Path

Prerequisites

Previous
The "Ninja Passive" (Sein + Zu)

Continue With

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Rumors & News: German Passive in Indirect Speech (Passiv Konjunktiv I)

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Reporting with Style: German Konjunktiv I Strong Verbs

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German 'Would' Form: Avoiding Confusion (Konjunktiv II with würde)

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Related Grammar Rules

A1

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German Irrealis: Wishes and 'What-Ifs' (Konjunktiv II)

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