Meaning
To acquire proficiency in a new language.
Cultural Background
The 'Volkshochschule' (VHS) is a unique German institution where millions of adults 'eine {die|f} Sprache lernen' for very low fees. It is a social hub for lifelong learning. In Switzerland, children often learn a second national language (French or Italian) before English, reflecting the country's multilingual identity. Austrians take great pride in their specific version of the German language. Learning 'Österreichisches Deutsch' involves unique vocabulary like 'Sackerl' instead of 'Tüte'. Almost everyone is trilingual (Luxembourgish, German, French). Learning a language is seen as a natural part of growing up, not a separate task.
Don't overthink 'studieren'
If you aren't getting a diploma for it, just say 'lernen'.
Compliments
Germans will often say 'Dein Deutsch ist gut' even if you only know three words. Just say 'Danke, ich lerne noch!'
Meaning
To acquire proficiency in a new language.
Don't overthink 'studieren'
If you aren't getting a diploma for it, just say 'lernen'.
Compliments
Germans will often say 'Dein Deutsch ist gut' even if you only know three words. Just say 'Danke, ich lerne noch!'
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct form of 'lernen' and the article for 'Sprache'.
Ich _______ _______ {die|f} Sprache.
The subject 'Ich' requires the verb form 'lerne', and 'Sprache' is feminine, requiring 'eine'.
Which sentence is correct for a hobby learner?
A: Ich studiere Deutsch. B: Ich lerne Deutsch.
'Lernen' is for hobbies and courses; 'studieren' is for university degrees.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Warum lernst du Spanisch? B: Ich _______ Spanisch, weil ich nach Madrid reise.
The verb 'lerne' completes the sentence logically in the present tense.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesIch _______ _______ {die|f} Sprache.
The subject 'Ich' requires the verb form 'lerne', and 'Sprache' is feminine, requiring 'eine'.
A: Ich studiere Deutsch. B: Ich lerne Deutsch.
'Lernen' is for hobbies and courses; 'studieren' is for university degrees.
A: Warum lernst du Spanisch? B: Ich _______ Spanisch, weil ich nach Madrid reise.
The verb 'lerne' completes the sentence logically in the present tense.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsYes, it is actually more common to just name the language directly.
Yes, all nouns in German are capitalized.
Related Phrases
eine {die|f} Fremdsprache
specialized formA foreign language
Sprachkenntnisse
builds onLanguage skills
zweisprachig
similarBilingual
Muttersprache
contrastMother tongue
