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A2 adverb #1,500 most common 10 min read

erstens

Top 1,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips erstens in 30 Seconds

Explanation erstens in your Level:

At the A1 beginner level, the German adverb 'erstens' is introduced as a simple vocabulary word to help learners begin structuring very basic lists and reasons. While A1 learners primarily focus on simple sentences and basic vocabulary like greetings, numbers, and everyday objects, understanding how to say 'firstly' provides a foundation for expressing opinions. At this stage, learners are taught that 'erstens' means 'firstly' and is almost always followed by 'zweitens' (secondly). The grammatical focus is kept minimal, but teachers will emphasize that if you start a sentence with this word, the verb must come immediately after it. For example, 'Erstens spiele ich Fußball.' (Firstly, I play football). Learners at this level might not fully grasp the difference between logical enumeration and temporal sequence, so they might occasionally confuse it with 'zuerst' (first, temporally). However, simple exposure to the word in basic dialogues, such as explaining why someone likes a certain food or why they are learning German, helps build familiarity. The goal at A1 is simply recognition and very basic, heavily guided production in short, simple sentences.

At the A2 elementary level, the understanding and usage of 'erstens' become significantly more structured and grammatically accurate. Learners are now expected to actively use the word to justify their opinions, explain simple decisions, and structure short paragraphs or spoken responses. The critical grammatical concept of the verb-second (V2) rule is heavily reinforced at this stage. A2 learners must demonstrate that they can place the conjugated verb immediately after 'erstens' when it occupies the first position in a clause (e.g., 'Erstens habe ich keine Zeit, und zweitens ist es zu teuer.'). Furthermore, the distinction between 'erstens' (logical listing) and 'zuerst' (temporal sequence) is explicitly taught and practiced. Learners practice scenarios like declining an invitation and giving multiple reasons, or explaining the benefits of a particular hobby. They learn to pair it consistently with 'zweitens' to create cohesive, logical arguments. By the end of A2, students should feel comfortable using this adverb to add structure and clarity to their everyday communication, moving beyond simple, disconnected sentences into slightly more complex, connected discourse.

At the B1 intermediate level, 'erstens' becomes an essential tool for independent communication, particularly in the context of expressing detailed opinions, participating in discussions, and writing structured texts like emails or short essays. B1 learners are expected to use the word fluidly and without hesitation to organize their thoughts logically. The grammatical application of the V2 rule should be largely automatic by this point. Furthermore, learners at this level begin to explore placing the adverb in the middle of the sentence (the midfield), rather than always at the beginning (e.g., 'Ich möchte erstens betonen, dass...'). This demonstrates a higher level of syntactic flexibility. B1 students use 'erstens' to construct arguments in debates, such as discussing the pros and cons of living in a city versus the countryside, or explaining the reasons behind a personal choice. They also learn to integrate it with other transitional words and conjunctions to create smooth, cohesive narratives. The word is no longer just a vocabulary item; it is a structural pillar for their intermediate-level German expression.

At the B2 upper-intermediate level, the usage of 'erstens' is refined and expanded to encompass more formal and complex contexts. B2 learners are expected to engage in detailed argumentation, both in writing and speaking, and 'erstens' is crucial for maintaining clarity in these extended discourses. At this level, learners use the word naturally in formal presentations, academic essays, and professional correspondence. They are comfortable with its placement in various sentence structures, including complex sentences with subordinate clauses (e.g., 'Erstens ist es wichtig, dass wir die Regeln beachten, weil...'). The focus shifts towards rhetorical effectiveness—using 'erstens' not just to list, but to emphasize points, build a persuasive argument, and guide the listener or reader through a complex logical progression. B2 learners also fully master the nuances between 'erstens', 'zuerst', 'zunächst', and 'als Erstes', choosing the precise word for the specific context. The word becomes a seamless part of their active vocabulary, used to demonstrate a high level of organizational competence in the German language.

At the C1 advanced level, the adverb 'erstens' is utilized with near-native proficiency, serving as a subtle yet powerful rhetorical device in highly complex, abstract, and academic discussions. C1 learners employ the word effortlessly to structure sophisticated arguments, critique texts, and deliver formal speeches. They understand how to use it to set a specific tone—whether it be authoritative, analytical, or mildly defensive—depending on the context. At this level, the grammatical mechanics are entirely internalized, and the focus is entirely on stylistic variation and pragmatic effect. C1 users might combine it with modal particles or other adverbs for emphasis (e.g., 'Erstens einmal müssen wir festhalten, dass...'). They use it seamlessly in long, multi-clause sentences without losing the logical thread. Furthermore, they are adept at recognizing its use in complex written texts, such as literary essays, scientific papers, or political commentary, understanding how authors use it to manipulate the flow of information and persuade the reader. It is a hallmark of advanced, highly structured German discourse.

At the C2 mastery level, the command of 'erstens' is indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker. C2 users employ the word with absolute precision, flexibility, and rhetorical elegance across all possible registers, from the most formal academic treatises to nuanced, colloquial debates. They understand the deepest subtleties of its pragmatic usage, using it not merely to list points, but to control the pace of a conversation, to preempt counterarguments, or to structure a highly complex, multi-layered thesis. At this pinnacle of language proficiency, 'erstens' is integrated flawlessly into idiomatic expressions and complex syntactic structures. C2 learners can play with its placement for stylistic effect, perhaps delaying it for emphasis or using it to create a specific rhythmic cadence in a speech. They are fully aware of its etymological roots and its relationship to the broader system of German ordinal adverbs. In essence, at the C2 level, 'erstens' is a fully mastered instrument in the user's extensive linguistic repertoire, used to articulate thought with maximum clarity, authority, and sophistication.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

erstens in 30 Seconds

Translates to 'firstly' or 'in the first place' in English.
Used to list logical points or reasons, not temporal events.
Requires the verb to immediately follow if placed at the start of a sentence.
Almost always paired with 'zweitens' (secondly) to complete the thought.

The German adverb 'erstens' is a highly fundamental and structurally significant vocabulary word that translates to 'firstly', 'in the first place', or 'for one thing' in the English language. When you are learning German, mastering the usage of enumerative adverbs like this one is absolutely essential for structuring your arguments, organizing your thoughts, and communicating complex ideas with clarity and precision. The word itself is derived from the ordinal number 'erste' (first) combined with the adverbial suffix '-ns', which transforms it into an adverb of sequence. This linguistic transformation is a common pattern in the German language, similarly seen in words like 'zweitens' (secondly), 'drittens' (thirdly), and so forth. Understanding the core meaning of this word requires recognizing its role as a discourse marker. It does not describe the physical position of an object, nor does it describe the chronological sequence of events in a narrative in the same way that 'zuerst' (first, initially) does. Instead, it is used almost exclusively to list points, arguments, reasons, or conditions in a logical sequence.

Logical Enumeration: Used to introduce the first point in a structured argument or a list of reasons.

Ich kann nicht kommen. Erstens bin ich krank, und zweitens habe ich kein Auto.

Furthermore, the semantic weight of the word carries a tone of organization and sometimes even authority or defensiveness. For instance, when a parent is scolding a child or a manager is explaining a decision to an employee, they might use this adverb to lay out their indisputable reasons.

Defensive Structuring: Employing the word to firmly establish boundaries or justify a refusal with multiple points.

Erstens ist das zu teuer, und zweitens brauchen wir es nicht.

It is crucial to differentiate this word from temporal adverbs. While 'zuerst' means 'first' in terms of time (e.g., 'First I woke up, then I ate breakfast'), our target word is purely structural.

Wir müssen erstens die Kosten berechnen.

Grammatical Category: It is an invariable adverb, meaning it does not change its ending based on gender, case, or number.

Das ist erstens falsch und zweitens illegal.

In academic writing, debates, and formal presentations, this word is an indispensable tool. It acts as a signpost for the audience, guiding them through the logical progression of the speaker's thoughts.

Erstens möchte ich mich bedanken.

By mastering this single word, learners unlock the ability to sound significantly more fluent, organized, and persuasive in their German communication, bridging the gap between simple sentences and complex, cohesive discourse.

Using the adverb 'erstens' correctly in a German sentence requires a solid understanding of German syntax, particularly the verb-second (V2) rule, which is a cornerstone of German grammar. Because it is an adverb and not a coordinating conjunction (like 'und' or 'aber'), it occupies a distinct grammatical position within the clause. If you place it at the very beginning of a sentence—which is its most common and impactful position—it occupies Position 1. Consequently, the conjugated verb must immediately follow it in Position 2, leading to an inversion of the subject and the verb compared to standard English word order.

Position 1 Syntax: When placed at the start of the clause, the verb must come next, followed by the subject.

Erstens habe ich keine Zeit.

Alternatively, you can place the adverb in the middle of the sentence, typically after the conjugated verb and the subject. In this case, the subject remains in Position 1, the verb in Position 2, and the adverb acts as a modal particle providing structure to the statement.

Midfield Position: Placing the word after the verb to maintain standard subject-verb order while still enumerating points.

Ich habe erstens keine Zeit und zweitens kein Geld.

Another important aspect of using this word is its pairing. It is almost universally expected that if you use 'erstens', you will follow it up with 'zweitens' (secondly). Leaving a thought hanging without the subsequent point can sound incomplete or confusing to a native speaker.

Das geht erstens dich nichts an und zweitens ist es geheim.

Punctuation Rules: Unlike in English where 'Firstly,' is often followed by a comma, in German, no comma separates the adverb from the verb when it is in Position 1.

Erstens müssen wir reden.

You can also use it in a standalone list format, particularly in written texts, bullet points, or formal speeches, where it functions almost like a bullet point itself.

Meine Gründe sind: erstens die Umwelt, zweitens die Gesundheit.

Understanding these syntactic nuances ensures that your German flows naturally and adheres to the strict structural rules of the language.

The adverb 'erstens' is ubiquitous across all registers of the German language, making it an incredibly versatile word that you will encounter in a wide variety of contexts, from the highly formal to the completely casual. In formal environments, such as academic lectures, political debates, business meetings, and professional presentations, it is a standard tool for structuring complex arguments. A professor might use it to outline the main points of a lecture, while a politician might use it to list the reasons behind a new policy.

Formal Debates: Used to clearly delineate distinct arguments to ensure the audience can follow the logical progression.

Erstens müssen wir die wirtschaftlichen Folgen betrachten.

However, its usage is by no means restricted to formal settings. In everyday, colloquial conversations, it is frequently used to express annoyance, to justify a refusal, or to set boundaries. Imagine a teenager asking their parent for a new smartphone, and the parent responding with a list of reasons why that won't happen.

Casual Justifications: Employed in daily life to quickly list reasons for an opinion or decision, often in a slightly defensive tone.

Erstens ist dein altes Handy noch gut, und zweitens haben wir kein Geld dafür.

You will also hear it frequently in customer service interactions, where a representative might explain a company policy or the steps required to resolve an issue.

Dafür brauchen wir erstens Ihre Unterschrift.

Instructional Contexts: Used in manuals, recipes, or verbal instructions to indicate the first necessary condition or step.

Erstens schalten Sie das Gerät ein.

In literature and journalism, authors use it to build logical narratives or opinion pieces. It is a word that transcends social class, age, and profession, making it a truly universal element of the German vocabulary.

Der Plan scheiterte, weil erstens das Wetter schlecht war.

Whether you are watching a German talk show, reading a newspaper editorial, or chatting with friends at a Stammtisch, this word will inevitably make an appearance whenever someone needs to make a structured point.

When learning how to use 'erstens', students frequently encounter a few specific pitfalls that can disrupt the flow and grammatical correctness of their German. The most prevalent and glaring mistake is the failure to apply the verb-second (V2) rule when the word is placed at the beginning of a sentence. Because English speakers are accustomed to saying 'Firstly, I want to say...', they naturally tend to translate this directly into 'Erstens, ich möchte sagen...'. This is grammatically incorrect in German.

The V2 Rule Violation: Failing to invert the subject and verb when the adverb occupies the first position in the clause.

Erstens möchte ich sagen... (Correct)

Another major source of confusion is the semantic overlap between 'erstens' and 'zuerst'. While both translate to 'first' or 'firstly' in English, their usage in German is strictly divided. 'Zuerst' is a temporal adverb used to describe the chronological sequence of events (e.g., 'First I ate, then I slept'). 'Erstens', on the other hand, is an enumerative adverb used to list logical points or arguments.

Semantic Confusion: Using the enumerative adverb when a temporal adverb is required to describe a sequence of actions.

Ich gehe zuerst einkaufen. (Not erstens!)

A third common mistake is punctuation. English speakers love to put a comma after introductory adverbs. In German, if the adverb is integrated into the sentence structure (which it almost always is), no comma is used.

Incorrect Punctuation: Adding an unnecessary comma after the adverb, which breaks the grammatical connection to the verb.

Erstens ist es spät. (No comma!)

Furthermore, learners sometimes forget to follow up with 'zweitens'. While not strictly a grammatical error, leaving a solitary 'erstens' hanging in a conversation sounds very unnatural and leaves the listener waiting for a second point that never arrives.

...und zweitens bin ich müde.

Finally, some learners mistakenly try to decline the word like an adjective (e.g., 'ein erstenser Grund'), which is impossible since it is an invariable adverb.

Das ist erstens falsch. (Never erstense/erstenser)

By being mindful of the V2 rule, distinguishing it from temporal adverbs, avoiding English punctuation habits, and remembering its invariable nature, learners can easily overcome these common hurdles.

In the rich tapestry of the German language, there are several words that share semantic similarities with 'erstens', yet each possesses distinct nuances and specific use cases that must be carefully distinguished to achieve true fluency. The most commonly confused counterpart is 'zuerst'. As previously discussed, 'zuerst' is strictly temporal. It denotes the very first action in a chronological sequence of events.

Zuerst (Temporal): Used to indicate that an action happens before any other action in time. Translates to 'first' or 'initially'.

Ich mache zuerst meine Hausaufgaben.

Another closely related word is 'zunächst'. This adverb is slightly more formal and translates best to 'for now', 'initially', or 'to begin with'. It implies a temporary state or the starting point of a process that will evolve.

Zunächst (Initial State): Indicates the beginning of a situation or a temporary initial phase before a change occurs.

Wir müssen zunächst abwarten.

Then we have the phrase 'als Erstes', which literally means 'as the first thing'. This phrase can often be used interchangeably with 'zuerst' in temporal contexts, but it places a slightly stronger emphasis on the priority of the action.

Als Erstes (Priority): Used to highlight the absolute priority of an action among a list of tasks.

Als Erstes rufe ich den Arzt an.

Furthermore, words like 'einleitend' (introductory) or 'vorab' (in advance) serve similar functions in highly formal or written contexts, but they lack the specific enumerative quality of our target word.

Vorab möchte ich sagen...

To summarize, while 'zuerst' and 'als Erstes' deal with time and priority, and 'zunächst' deals with initial states, 'erstens' remains the undisputed king of logical enumeration.

Das ist erstens logisch und zweitens richtig.

Understanding these subtle distinctions allows learners to choose the exact right word for the exact right situation, significantly elevating the sophistication and accuracy of their German expression.

How Formal Is It?

Difficulty Rating

Grammar to Know

Verb-Second (V2) Rule

Inversion

Adverbial Placement

Coordinating Conjunctions

Ordinal Numbers

Examples by Level

Erstens spiele ich gern Fußball.

Firstly, I like playing football.

Verb 'spiele' must immediately follow 'Erstens'.

Erstens ist das Auto rot.

Firstly, the car is red.

Position 1 adverb causes subject-verb inversion.

Erstens lerne ich Deutsch.

Firstly, I am learning German.

Simple present tense with inverted word order.

Erstens bin ich müde.

Firstly, I am tired.

Using the verb 'sein' (to be) in the second position.

Erstens habe ich Hunger.

Firstly, I am hungry.

Using 'haben' (to have) to express hunger.

Erstens trinke ich Wasser.

Firstly, I drink water.

Basic sentence structure for listing actions.

Erstens ist es kalt.

Firstly, it is cold.

Using 'es' as a dummy subject.

Erstens gehe ich nach Hause.

Firstly, I am going home.

Directional phrase 'nach Hause'.

Erstens habe ich keine Zeit, und zweitens habe ich kein Geld.

Firstly, I have no time, and secondly, I have no money.

Classic pairing of erstens and zweitens.

Ich kann nicht kommen. Erstens bin ich krank.

I cannot come. Firstly, I am sick.

Providing a reason for a previous statement.

Erstens ist das zu teuer für mich.

Firstly, that is too expensive for me.

Using 'zu' (too) with an adjective.

Wir müssen erstens die Hausaufgaben machen.

We must firstly do the homework.

Adverb placed in the midfield after the modal verb.

Erstens möchte ich einen Kaffee trinken.

Firstly, I would like to drink a coffee.

Using the modal verb 'möchte'.

Das ist erstens falsch und zweitens unhöflich.

That is firstly wrong and secondly impolite.

Listing two adjectives to describe a situation.

Erstens regnet es heute stark.

Firstly, it is raining heavily today.

Describing weather conditions as a reason.

Erstens brauche ich ein neues Handy.

Firstly, I need a new cell phone.

Expressing a need using 'brauchen'.

Erstens bin ich der Meinung, dass wir mehr sparen sollten.

Firstly, I am of the opinion that we should save more.

Introducing a subordinate 'dass' clause.

Ich habe mich dagegen entschieden, weil es erstens zu riskant ist.

I decided against it because it is firstly too risky.

Using the adverb within a 'weil' (because) clause.

Erstens müssen wir die genauen Ursachen des Problems analysieren.

Firstly, we must analyze the exact causes of the problem.

More complex vocabulary and formal tone.

Das Projekt ist gescheitert. Erstens fehlte das Geld, zweitens die Zeit.

The project failed. Firstly the money was missing, secondly the time.

Ellipsis in the second clause (verb omitted).

Erstens möchte ich mich bei allen für die Hilfe bedanken.

Firstly, I would like to thank everyone for the help.

Formal phrasing for speeches or presentations.

Wir sollten erstens darüber diskutieren, bevor wir eine Entscheidung treffen.

We should firstly discuss it before we make a decision.

Using 'darüber' (about it) as a pronominal adverb.

Erstens ist die Qualität schlecht, und außerdem ist der Service furchtbar.

Firstly, the quality is bad, and furthermore, the service is terrible.

Combining 'erstens' with 'außerdem' (furthermore).

Ich glaube ihm nicht. Erstens lügt er oft, und zweitens wirkt er nervös.

I don't believe him. Firstly he lies often, and secondly he seems nervous.

Providing multiple reasons for a belief.

Erstens lässt sich argumentieren, dass diese Maßnahme wirtschaftlich ineffizient ist.

Firstly, it can be argued that this measure is economically inefficient.

Using 'lässt sich' (can be) for passive-like construction.

Der Autor behauptet erstens, dass die Gesellschaft sich im Wandel befindet.

The author claims firstly that society is in a state of change.

Academic context reporting someone's claim.

Erstens bedarf es einer gründlichen Überarbeitung des aktuellen Gesetzesentwurfs.

Firstly, a thorough revision of the current draft law is required.

Using the formal verb 'bedürfen' with the genitive case.

Wir müssen erstens die langfristigen Konsequenzen unseres Handelns berücksichtigen.

We must firstly consider the long-term consequences of our actions.

Advanced vocabulary: 'Konsequenzen', 'berücksichtigen'.

Erstens ist darauf hinzuweisen, dass die Datenlage äußerst unzureichend ist.

Firstly, it should be pointed out that the data situation is extremely inadequate.

Formal passive construction 'ist darauf hinzuweisen'.

Das Konzept überzeugt mich nicht, da es erstens auf falschen Prämissen beruht.

The concept does not convince me, as it is firstly based on false premises.

Using 'da' (as/since) for causal clauses.

Erstens einmal sollten wir die Emotionen aus dieser Debatte heraushalten.

First of all, we should keep emotions out of this debate.

Adding 'einmal' for emphasis (colloquial but strong).

Die Kritik ist erstens unbegründet und zweitens völlig deplatziert.

The criticism is firstly unfounded and secondly completely out of place.

Using strong, sophisticated adjectives.

Erstens obliegt es der Geschäftsführung, derartige strategische Entscheidungen zu fällen.

Firstly, it is incumbent upon the management to make such strategic decisions.

Highly formal verb 'obliegen' taking the dative.

Die These ist insofern problematisch, als sie erstens historische Fakten ignoriert.

The thesis is problematic insofar as it firstly ignores historical facts.

Complex conjunction 'insofern... als'.

Erstens sei angemerkt, dass die vorliegende Studie methodische Mängel aufweist.

Firstly, it should be noted that the present study exhibits methodological flaws.

Using Konjunktiv I 'sei' for formal objective statements.

Man kann diesem Vorschlag erstens entgegenhalten, dass er nicht finanzierbar ist.

One can firstly counter this proposal by saying that it cannot be financed.

Using 'entgegenhalten' (to counter/object).

Erstens resultiert diese Diskrepanz aus einer fehlerhaften Datenerhebung.

Firstly, this discrepancy results from faulty data collection.

Academic vocabulary 'Diskrepanz', 'Datenerhebung'.

Die Argumentation krankt erstens daran, dass sie Ursache und Wirkung verwechselt.

The argumentation suffers firstly from the fact that it confuses cause and effect.

Using the metaphorical verb 'kranken an' (to suffer from).

Erstens bedingt der demografische Wandel eine Anpassung der Sozialsysteme.

Firstly, demographic change necessitates an adaptation of social systems.

Using 'bedingen' (to necessitate/cause).

Dieser Ansatz greift erstens zu kurz, um die Komplexität des Problems zu erfassen.

This approach firstly falls short of capturing the complexity of the problem.

Idiomatic expression 'zu kurz greifen' (to fall short).

Erstens mutet es geradezu paradox an, dass ausgerechnet die Verursacher nun klagen.

Firstly, it seems almost paradoxical that the very perpetrators are now complaining.

Sophisticated phrasing 'mutet... an' and 'ausgerechnet'.

Der Entwurf ist erstens Makulatur, da er die essenziellen juristischen Vorgaben negiert.

The draft is firstly wastepaper, as it negates the essential legal requirements.

High-register vocabulary 'Makulatur', 'negieren'.

Erstens verkennt diese reduktionistische Sichtweise die inhärente Dynamik des Marktes.

Firstly, this reductionist view fails to recognize the inherent dynamics of the market.

Academic/philosophical vocabulary 'verkennen', 'inhärent'.

Es steht erstens außer Frage, dass der Status quo nicht länger tragbar ist.

Firstly, it is out of the question that the status quo is no longer sustainable.

Fixed expression 'außer Frage stehen'.

Erstens entbehrt diese polemische Äußerung jeglicher sachlichen Grundlage.

Firstly, this polemical statement lacks any factual basis.

Using 'entbehren' with the genitive case.

Die Prämisse ist erstens in sich widersprüchlich und zweitens empirisch nicht haltbar.

The premise is firstly inherently contradictory and secondly empirically untenable.

Complex adjectival phrases 'in sich widersprüchlich'.

Erstens ließe sich trefflich darüber streiten, ob diese Maßnahme überhaupt zielführend war.

Firstly, one could excellently argue whether this measure was expedient at all.

Konjunktiv II 'ließe sich' combined with 'trefflich'.

Dieser Kompromiss stellt erstens ein Armutszeugnis für die Verhandlungsführer dar.

This compromise firstly represents an indictment of the negotiators.

Idiom 'ein Armutszeugnis darstellen' (to be a poor reflection/indictment).

Common Collocations

erstens kommt es anders

erstens und zweitens

erstens weil

erstens das

erstens einmal

erstens, zweitens, drittens

erstens aus Prinzip

erstens aus Gründen

erstens aus Liebe

erstens zur Klarstellung

Common Phrases

Erstens kommt es anders, und zweitens als man denkt.

Erstens das, und zweitens...

Erstens einmal...

Das ist erstens... und zweitens...

Wir müssen erstens...

Erstens, zweitens, drittens...

Ich sage dir erstens...

Erstens aus Prinzip...

Erstens weil...

Erstens zur Klarstellung...

Often Confused With

erstens vs zuerst

erstens vs zunächst

erstens vs erste

Idioms & Expressions

"Erstens kommt es anders, und zweitens als man denkt."

"Erstens das!"

"Erstens einmal..."

"Das ist erstens..."

"Wir müssen erstens..."

"Erstens, zweitens, drittens..."

"Ich sage dir erstens..."

"Erstens aus Prinzip..."

"Erstens weil..."

"Erstens zur Klarstellung..."

Easily Confused

erstens vs

Sentence Patterns

How to Use It

note

Do not confuse with 'zuerst' (temporal first). 'Erstens' is strictly for logical lists.

Common Mistakes

Saying 'Erstens, ich habe...' instead of 'Erstens habe ich...'
Using 'erstens' when 'zuerst' (temporal) is meant.
Putting a comma after 'erstens' at the start of a sentence.
Forgetting to follow up with 'zweitens'.
Trying to use it as an adjective (e.g., 'der erstens Grund').

Tips

The V2 Rule is Crucial

Never say 'Erstens, ich habe...'. The verb must be in position 2. Always say 'Erstens habe ich...'.

Pair it up

Always try to follow up with 'zweitens'. It makes your German sound much more natural and structured.

Not for Time

Do not use it to describe a sequence of events in time. For 'First I woke up', use 'zuerst', not 'erstens'.

No Comma

Avoid the English habit of placing a comma after introductory adverbs. 'Erstens ist es spät.' (No comma).

Emphasis

When speaking, place a slight vocal emphasis on 'erstens' to signal to your listener that a list is starting.

Academic Writing

Use it liberally in essays to structure your arguments. It shows the examiner you can organize your thoughts.

Erstens einmal

In spoken German, adding 'einmal' ('erstens einmal') makes the point stronger and slightly more colloquial or defensive.

Invariable Word

Remember that 'erstens' never changes its ending. It is an adverb, so it doesn't take adjective endings.

Predicting Structure

When you hear someone say 'erstens', use it as a cue to pay attention, as a structured argument is coming.

Midfield Placement

For variety, try placing it after the verb: 'Ich habe erstens...'. This sounds very fluent and natural.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'erst' (first) and add 'ens' to make it an adverb for lists. ERST-ENS = FIRST-LY.

Word Origin

Derived from the Old High German 'ēristo' (first) combined with the adverbial suffix '-ns'.

Cultural Context

Appropriate for all levels of formality, from casual chats to academic papers.

Universally understood and used across all German-speaking regions (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) without significant variation.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Conversation Starters

"Warum kommst du nicht zur Party? (Erstens...)"

"Was sind die Gründe für diese Entscheidung? (Erstens...)"

"Warum ist Deutsch lernen schwer? (Erstens...)"

"Was müssen wir heute tun? (Erstens...)"

"Warum magst du diesen Film nicht? (Erstens...)"

Journal Prompts

Schreibe drei Gründe auf, warum du Deutsch lernst. Beginne mit 'Erstens...'.

Erkläre, warum dein Lieblingsessen das beste ist. Nutze 'erstens' und 'zweitens'.

Warum ist Sport wichtig? (Erstens...)

Was sind die Vorteile des Internets? (Erstens...)

Warum möchtest du nach Deutschland reisen? (Erstens...)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

'Erstens' is used for logical lists and arguments, translating to 'firstly'. 'Zuerst' is used for chronological time, translating to 'first' or 'initially'. Use 'erstens' when you have a 'zweitens' (secondly). Use 'zuerst' when you have a 'dann' (then). They are not interchangeable.

Grammatically, yes, but stylistically it sounds very incomplete. Native speakers expect a 'zweitens' to follow. If you only have one point, it is better to use a different phrasing like 'Der Hauptgrund ist...' (The main reason is...).

Yes, if placed at the beginning of a sentence (Position 1), it forces the verb into Position 2, causing subject-verb inversion. For example: 'Erstens HABE ich...' not 'Erstens ich habe...'. This is a strict rule in German grammar.

It is completely neutral and used in all registers. You will hear it in highly formal academic debates and in casual conversations between friends. The formality depends entirely on the surrounding vocabulary, not the word itself.

No, it is almost never used at the very end of a sentence. It functions as an introductory or structuring element, so it belongs either at the beginning of the clause or in the midfield after the verb.

It is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable: [ˈeːɐ̯stn̩s]. The 'r' is often vocalized, sounding somewhat like a short 'a', and the 'e' in the second syllable is barely pronounced, making the 'n' and 's' blend together.

It comes from the ordinal number 'erste' (first). The suffix '-ns' was added historically to create adverbs of sequence. This same pattern applies to zweitens, drittens, viertens, etc.

No, it is strictly an invariable adverb. You cannot say 'ein erstenser Grund'. The adjective form is 'erste' (e.g., 'der erste Grund').

No, 'erstens' is standard High German and is used and understood uniformly across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. There are no major regional variations in its meaning or grammar.

They are very similar in meaning and function (listing points). However, English speakers often put a comma after 'Firstly,'. In German, you do not put a comma after 'Erstens' if it starts the sentence; the verb must follow immediately.

Test Yourself 200 questions

writing

Write a sentence starting with 'Erstens' explaining why you are learning German.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Ensure the verb follows 'Erstens'.