Meaning
To greet or make an agreement by grasping hands.
Cultural Background
A firm handshake is a sign of honesty and reliability. Handshakes are becoming common in business but bowing is still the primary greeting. Always use the right hand, as the left is traditionally considered unclean.
Dative Case
Always remember that 'geben' requires the dative case for the person receiving the hand.
Eye Contact
In Germany, looking away during a handshake is considered rude.
Meaning
To greet or make an agreement by grasping hands.
Dative Case
Always remember that 'geben' requires the dative case for the person receiving the hand.
Eye Contact
In Germany, looking away during a handshake is considered rude.
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct dative pronoun.
Ich gebe ____ die Hand.
Dative masculine is 'ihm'.
Which is correct?
Select the correct sentence.
Dative is required.
Match the meaning.
Match 'Hand geben' to its context.
It is a social gesture.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Nice to meet you!' B: '____'
Appropriate response.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesIch gebe ____ die Hand.
Dative masculine is 'ihm'.
Select the correct sentence.
Dative is required.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
It is a social gesture.
A: 'Nice to meet you!' B: '____'
Appropriate response.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsYes, it is very appropriate for professional settings.
No, it is used for everyone regardless of gender.
You can nod or wave, but it might be seen as unusual in formal settings.
They are related, but 'Handschlag' is the noun for the act.
No, a hug is 'umarmen'.
No, it is a physical action.
Related Phrases
Handschlag
synonymHandshake
Die Hand reichen
similarTo offer a hand
Hand drauf!
builds onDeal!