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A2 verb #1,500 most common 13 min read

gelten

Top 1,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips gelten in 30 Seconds

Explanation gelten in your Level:

At the A1 level, learners are introduced to the most basic and practical uses of the German language, focusing on survival vocabulary and immediate needs. The verb 'gelten' is typically encountered in its simplest form: 'gilt'. Beginners will see this word constantly when they travel in German-speaking countries, particularly on public transportation. When buying a ticket for a bus, tram, or train, the ticket will often have the word 'gilt' printed on it, followed by a date or a time frame. For example, 'gilt heute' (valid today) or 'gilt für eine Fahrt' (valid for one journey). At this stage, learners do not need to worry about the complex conjugations or the abstract meanings of the word. The primary goal is simply to recognize 'gilt' as a signifier of validity. If a conductor points to a ticket and says 'Das gilt nicht', the learner needs to understand that the ticket is invalid. Teachers at the A1 level will often introduce 'gelten' alongside vocabulary for travel, shopping, and basic rules. Students might practice reading simple signs like 'Angebot gilt bis Montag' (Offer valid until Monday) in a supermarket context. They learn that 'gelten' is an action that things do—tickets, coupons, and rules 'gelten'. They might also learn the negative form 'gilt nicht' to express that something is not allowed or not valid. The focus is entirely on receptive understanding (reading and listening) rather than producing complex sentences. By associating 'gilt' with a green checkmark (valid) and 'gilt nicht' with a red cross (invalid), A1 learners build a strong, practical foundation for this essential verb without getting bogged down in grammatical theory. This practical approach ensures they can navigate basic daily tasks like taking the train or understanding a store discount with confidence.

At the A2 level, learners begin to actively use 'gelten' in their own sentences and expand their understanding of its grammar. They learn that 'gelten' is an irregular verb and must memorize the crucial vowel change in the present tense: 'es gilt'. While they still primarily use it in the third person singular, they start to construct more complex sentences using prepositions. The most important new structure introduced at this level is 'gelten für' (to apply to). Learners practice saying things like 'Das Ticket gilt für zwei Personen' (The ticket is valid for two people) or 'Die Regel gilt für alle' (The rule applies to everyone). This allows them to express conditions and target audiences for rules and offers. They also start to use 'gelten' in the past tense, specifically the Präteritum form 'galt', which is common in written texts and stories. For example, 'Das Angebot galt nur gestern' (The offer was only valid yesterday). A2 learners also encounter the phrase 'Das gilt nicht!' in social contexts, learning that it means 'That's not fair!' or 'That doesn't count!' during games or arguments. This adds a colloquial, conversational tool to their vocabulary. Teachers encourage students to read short texts, such as simple news briefs or house rules (Hausordnung), where 'gelten' frequently appears. They practice answering questions like 'Für wen gilt diese Regel?' (Who does this rule apply to?). By the end of the A2 level, learners should feel comfortable not only reading 'gilt' on a ticket but also explaining the validity of an object or the application of a rule to someone else, marking a significant step from passive recognition to active, practical usage in everyday situations.

At the B1 level, the understanding and usage of 'gelten' expand significantly into more abstract and formal territories. Learners are now expected to express opinions, discuss societal norms, and understand media reports. The critical new structure introduced here is 'gelten als' (to be considered as / to have the reputation of). This is a major leap because it moves the verb away from strict legal validity into the realm of perception and public opinion. Students learn to construct sentences like 'Er gilt als ein guter Arzt' (He is considered a good doctor) or 'Berlin gilt als eine kreative Stadt' (Berlin is considered a creative city). Crucially, B1 learners must master the grammatical rule that 'als' in this context is followed by the nominative case, which often contradicts their instinct to use the accusative after a preposition. They also become fully comfortable with all conjugations of the verb, including the Perfekt tense ('hat gegolten'), though they learn that the Präteritum ('galt') is often preferred in writing. In reading and listening exercises, B1 students encounter 'gelten' in news articles discussing laws ('Das neue Gesetz gilt ab Januar') and documentaries discussing historical figures ('Er galt als Genie'). They are expected to use 'gelten' in their own writing, such as formal emails or short essays, to state rules or general consensus. The distinction between 'gelten für' (applies to) and 'gelten als' (considered as) becomes a focal point of grammar exercises, ensuring learners can accurately differentiate between a rule's target and a person's reputation. Mastery of 'gelten' at the B1 level demonstrates a learner's ability to navigate both the concrete rules of daily life and the abstract concepts of societal perception.

At the B2 level, learners refine their use of 'gelten' to achieve a high degree of fluency and precision, characteristic of independent users of the language. They are now dealing with complex texts, academic discussions, and professional environments where 'gelten' is used with nuance. Students at this level are expected to effortlessly switch between the different meanings of 'gelten' based on context without hesitation. They deeply explore the dative usage of the verb, which expresses a directed sentiment or action, such as 'Mein Dank gilt allen Helfern' (My thanks go to all helpers) or 'Diese Warnung gilt dir' (This warning is directed at you). This usage is particularly important for formal speeches, official correspondence, and advanced reading comprehension. B2 learners also encounter and actively use 'gelten' in complex sentence structures, such as relative clauses ('Das Gesetz, das für alle gilt...') and passive-like constructions, though they know 'gelten' itself cannot be passive. They learn to recognize and use idiomatic expressions and fixed collocations involving 'gelten', such as 'etwas geltend machen' (to assert a claim/right), which is essential for business and legal German. In discussions and debates, they use 'gelten als' to introduce counter-arguments or establish common ground ('Obwohl er als Experte gilt, hat er sich geirrt'). The focus at B2 is on style and register; learners understand that while 'Das ist gültig' and 'Das gilt' mean the same thing, 'gelten' often provides a more elegant and native-sounding flow to a sentence. They practice paraphrasing sentences to include 'gelten', elevating their spoken and written German from merely correct to sophisticated and natural.

At the C1 level, the usage of 'gelten' is expected to be near-native, characterized by a deep understanding of its subtle connotations, stylistic variations, and role in complex academic or professional discourse. Learners at this advanced stage encounter 'gelten' in highly dense texts, such as legal contracts, philosophical essays, and high-level political analysis. They effortlessly comprehend phrases like 'Es gilt das gesprochene Wort' (The spoken word applies/is the valid version), a standard disclaimer in political speeches indicating that the live delivery supersedes the written press release. C1 students master the nominalized form 'das Gelten' or 'die Geltung' (validity/worth), using phrases like 'zur Geltung kommen' (to come into one's own / to show to advantage) or 'Geltung beanspruchen' (to claim validity). They use 'gelten' to navigate complex subjunctive structures, such as 'Selbst wenn dies als Ausrede gelten würde...' (Even if this were to count as an excuse...). In academic writing, they use 'gelten als' extensively to review literature and establish the current state of research ('In der Forschung gilt diese Theorie mittlerweile als widerlegt' - In research, this theory is now considered refuted). They also understand the subtle difference between 'gelten als' and verbs like 'scheinen' (to seem) or 'wirken' (to appear), knowing that 'gelten' implies a broader societal or expert consensus rather than just a personal impression. At this level, errors in conjugation or case (like using the accusative after 'als') are completely eliminated. The focus is on rhetorical effectiveness, using 'gelten' to build persuasive arguments, assert rights ('Rechte geltend machen'), and articulate complex legal or social realities with absolute precision and stylistic grace.

At the C2 level, mastery of 'gelten' is absolute, reflecting the proficiency of a highly educated native speaker. The learner not only uses all forms and meanings of the verb flawlessly but also plays with its nuances for rhetorical effect in highly specialized contexts. At this level, 'gelten' is understood within the broader philosophical and legal frameworks of the German language. C2 users can effortlessly dissect complex legal jargon where 'gelten' dictates the boundaries of jurisdiction and applicability (e.g., 'Unbeschadet der übrigen Bestimmungen gilt Folgendes...'). They employ sophisticated idiomatic variations and compound words derived from 'gelten', such as 'Geltungsbedürfnis' (the need for recognition/attention) or 'Geltungsbereich' (scope of application/jurisdiction), integrating them seamlessly into academic debates or professional negotiations. In literary analysis, a C2 learner might discuss how an author uses 'gelten' to establish societal norms within a novel's universe. They are adept at using the verb in highly condensed, elliptical sentences typical of advanced German syntax, such as 'Galt früher noch die Regel X, so ist heute Y maßgeblich' (Whereas rule X used to apply, today Y is decisive). They fully grasp the historical evolution of the word's usage and can adapt their register perfectly, knowing exactly when 'gelten' sounds appropriately authoritative in a formal decree versus when it sounds suitably dismissive in a high-level intellectual debate ('Das lasse ich nicht als Argument gelten' - I won't accept that as an argument). At the C2 level, 'gelten' is not just a vocabulary word; it is a structural pillar used to construct, deconstruct, and analyze the validity of ideas, laws, and human reputation at the highest levels of discourse.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

gelten in 30 Seconds

Means 'to be valid' for tickets, documents, and laws.
Means 'to apply to' when used with 'für' + accusative.
Means 'to be considered as' when used with 'als' + nominative.
Irregular conjugation: remember the vowel change 'es gilt'.

The German verb 'gelten' is an incredibly versatile and fundamental word that every learner must master to navigate both everyday situations and formal contexts effectively. At its core, 'gelten' translates to 'to be valid', 'to apply', or 'to be considered as', depending entirely on the grammatical structure and the prepositions that accompany it. When you purchase a train ticket, read a legal document, or discuss societal norms, this verb will inevitably appear. Understanding its nuances is not just about vocabulary; it is about grasping how German speakers express rules, validity, and reputation.

Das Ticket gilt für drei Tage in der gesamten Region.

In this first sense, validity is the primary focus. A passport, a coupon, a contract, or a specific rule can all 'gelten'. If something is no longer valid, you would say 'es gilt nicht mehr'. This usage is absolute and usually requires no preposition, though it often takes a time frame or a location to specify the scope of validity.

Validity Context: Used for tickets, documents, and laws to show they are currently active and legally binding.

The second major meaning is 'to apply to', which is constructed using the preposition 'für' followed by the accusative case. If a teacher announces a rule in a classroom, they might say 'Das gilt für alle', meaning 'That applies to everyone'. This application of the word bridges the gap between a strict legal definition and everyday social interactions.

Diese Ausnahme gilt nur für Kinder unter zwölf Jahren.

The third crucial meaning is 'to be considered as' or 'to have the reputation of'. This is formed using the preposition 'als' followed by the nominative case. For example, 'Er gilt als ein Experte' translates to 'He is considered an expert'. This structure is widely used in journalism, academic writing, and professional environments to state general consensus or public opinion without stating it as an absolute, undeniable fact.

Reputation Context: Used with 'als' to describe how a person, place, or thing is perceived by the general public or experts.

Die Schweiz gilt als eines der sichersten Länder der Welt.

Furthermore, 'gelten' can be used with the dative case to mean 'to be directed at' or 'to be meant for'. For instance, 'Dieser Applaus gilt dir' means 'This applause is for you'. This is a more poetic or formal way of dedicating an action or a sentiment to someone.

Mein erster Dank gilt meinen Eltern für ihre Unterstützung.

Mastering these distinct meanings requires practice, but recognizing the accompanying prepositions ('für', 'als') or cases (dative) is the key to unlocking the exact meaning of 'gelten' in any given sentence.

Dative Context: Used to direct gratitude, warnings, or attention to a specific person or group.

Die Warnung gilt allen Reisenden in dieser Region.

By paying attention to these structural clues, learners can quickly determine whether a sentence is discussing the validity of a document, the application of a rule, a person's reputation, or a dedicated sentiment, making 'gelten' one of the most powerful verbs in the German language.

Using 'gelten' correctly depends heavily on mastering its grammatical patterns, specifically its conjugation and the prepositions or cases it demands. 'Gelten' is a strong (irregular) verb. Its principal parts are 'gelten' (infinitive), 'galt' (simple past/Präteritum), and 'hat gegolten' (present perfect/Perfekt). In the present tense, it undergoes a vowel change in the second and third person singular: 'ich gelte', 'du giltst', 'er/sie/es gilt', 'wir gelten', 'ihr geltet', 'sie/Sie gelten'.

Das Angebot gilt nur solange der Vorrat reicht.

The most common mistake learners make is forgetting the vowel change from 'e' to 'i' in the third person singular, which is the most frequently used form of this verb.

Conjugation Rule: Remember the e-to-i shift: er/sie/es gilt. This is crucial because 'gelten' is almost always used in the third person.

When using 'gelten' to mean 'to be valid', you typically use it as an intransitive verb without an object. You might add a time phrase (e.g., 'ab morgen', 'bis Freitag') or a location (e.g., 'in ganz Deutschland').

Der neue Fahrplan gilt ab dem ersten Januar.

When you want to express that a rule applies to someone or something, you must use 'gelten für' followed by the accusative case. For example, 'Die Verkehrsregeln gelten für alle Autofahrer'. This structure is non-negotiable; you cannot use the dative case here without changing the meaning entirely.

Applying Rules: Structure: gelten + für + Accusative. Use this to specify the target group of a regulation or condition.

Dieses Gesetz gilt nicht für private Grundstücke.

The construction 'gelten als' is used to express reputation or status. It is followed by the nominative case, which is a rare and important grammatical feature. Because 'als' acts as a comparative particle here, the noun that follows it must be in the same case as the subject. Therefore, 'Der Mann (nominative) gilt als ein guter Arzt (nominative)'.

Diese Methode gilt als veraltet und wird kaum noch angewendet.

Finally, the dative construction (etwas gilt jemandem) is used to express that an action, usually an expression of emotion or a statement, is directed at someone. 'Mein Beileid gilt der Familie' (My condolences go to the family). This is highly formal and mostly found in written German or formal speeches.

Directed Sentiment: Structure: gelten + Dative. Used for formal expressions of thanks, condolences, or warnings.

Unsere Aufmerksamkeit gilt nun den kommenden Herausforderungen.

By practicing these specific sentence patterns—intransitive for validity, 'für' + accusative for application, 'als' + nominative for reputation, and dative for directed sentiment—you will be able to use 'gelten' flawlessly in any situation.

The verb 'gelten' is ubiquitous in the German-speaking world, appearing in a vast array of contexts ranging from the mundane to the highly formal. You will encounter it almost immediately upon arriving in Germany, Austria, or Switzerland, particularly when dealing with public transportation. Train tickets, bus passes, and parking receipts frequently feature the word 'gilt' to denote their period of validity. For example, a stamp on a ticket might read 'gilt 2 Stunden ab Entwertung' (valid for 2 hours from validation).

Diese Fahrkarte gilt nur in der zweiten Klasse.

Beyond transportation, 'gelten' is a staple of commercial transactions. Sales, discounts, and special offers always come with conditions, and these conditions are expressed using 'gelten'. You will see signs in shop windows stating 'Angebot gilt bis Freitag' (Offer valid until Friday) or 'Gilt nicht für reduzierte Ware' (Does not apply to discounted goods).

Retail Context: Essential for understanding the terms and conditions of sales, coupons, and warranties in shops.

Der Gutschein gilt für den gesamten Einkauf.

In the realm of law and administration, 'gelten' is the standard verb used to discuss the applicability of laws, rules, and regulations. News broadcasts frequently use it when reporting on new legislation or government mandates. A news anchor might say, 'Die neuen Corona-Maßnahmen gelten ab Mitternacht' (The new Corona measures apply from midnight).

Legal Context: Used to establish the authority and effective dates of laws, contracts, and official guidelines.

In diesem Gebäude gilt ein striktes Rauchverbot.

The 'gelten als' construction is incredibly common in journalism, documentaries, and academic writing. It is the preferred way to introduce a widely held belief, a reputation, or a consensus without stating it as an absolute objective truth. For instance, a documentary about history might state, 'Er gilt als der Erfinder des Buchdrucks' (He is considered the inventor of the printing press).

Der Gepard gilt als das schnellste Landtier der Welt.

Finally, in everyday social interactions, you will hear 'gelten' used to establish fairness or rules in games and social dynamics. Children playing a game might argue, 'Das gilt nicht!' (That doesn't count! / That's not fair!). This colloquial usage shows how deeply embedded the concept of validity and agreed-upon rules is in the German language.

Social Context: Used informally to declare whether an action in a game or a social agreement is acceptable or 'counts'.

Schummeln gilt nicht in diesem Spiel!

Whether you are reading a formal contract, watching the evening news, shopping for groceries, or playing a board game with friends, 'gelten' is a word you will encounter and need to use constantly.

While 'gelten' is highly useful, its multiple meanings and specific grammatical requirements make it a frequent source of errors for German learners. One of the most common mistakes is confusing the verb 'gelten' with the adjective 'gültig' (valid). While they are related, they function differently in a sentence. Learners often try to say 'Das Ticket ist gelten', which is grammatically incorrect. You must either use the verb on its own ('Das Ticket gilt') or use the adjective with the verb 'sein' ('Das Ticket ist gültig').

Falsch: Das Visum ist gelten für ein Jahr. Richtig: Das Visum gilt für ein Jahr.

Another major stumbling block is the conjugation in the present tense. Because 'gelten' is a strong verb, the vowel changes from 'e' to 'i' in the second and third person singular. Many learners incorrectly say 'er gelt' instead of the correct 'er gilt'. Since the third person singular is the most common form used (referring to tickets, rules, laws), this mistake is highly noticeable.

Conjugation Error: Always remember the vowel shift: ich gelte, but es gilt. Never say 'es gelt'.

Die Regel gilt für alle Schüler der Klasse.

When using 'gelten als' to mean 'considered as', learners frequently make case errors. Because 'als' is often followed by the accusative or dative in other contexts, learners mistakenly apply those cases here. However, 'gelten als' requires the nominative case for the noun that follows it, because it describes the subject. Saying 'Er gilt als einen Experten' (accusative) is wrong; it must be 'Er gilt als ein Experte' (nominative).

Case Error with 'als': The noun after 'gelten als' must match the case of the subject, which is almost always the nominative.

Sie gilt als die beste Spielerin im Team.

Furthermore, learners often confuse the prepositions 'für' and 'als' when using 'gelten'. 'Gelten für' means 'to apply to' (a rule applying to a person), while 'gelten als' means 'to be considered as' (a person having a reputation). Mixing these up completely changes the meaning of the sentence. 'Das Gesetz gilt als ihn' makes no sense, and 'Er gilt für einen Experten' is equally incorrect.

Diese Vorschrift gilt für alle Mitarbeiter im Büro.

Finally, learners sometimes try to use 'gelten' in the passive voice. 'Gelten' is an intransitive verb in its primary meanings and cannot be passivized. You cannot say 'Das Ticket wird gegolten'. The active form 'Das Ticket gilt' already expresses the state of validity. By avoiding these common pitfalls—adjective confusion, conjugation errors, incorrect cases with 'als', preposition mix-ups, and passive voice attempts—you will use 'gelten' naturally and accurately.

Passive Voice Error: Never use 'gelten' in the passive voice. It is inherently a state-describing verb in these contexts.

Der Vertrag gilt ab sofort und ohne weitere Bestätigung.

Consistent practice with the correct sentence structures will quickly eliminate these errors from your German.

When expanding your German vocabulary, it is essential to understand how 'gelten' relates to and differs from other similar words. The most direct synonym for the concept of validity is the adjective 'gültig' combined with the verb 'sein' (to be). 'Gültig sein' and 'gelten' are often perfectly interchangeable when discussing tickets, documents, or laws. 'Das Ticket gilt' and 'Das Ticket ist gültig' mean exactly the same thing. However, 'gelten' is generally preferred in spoken German for its brevity, while 'gültig sein' might appear more often in formal written conditions.

Mein Reisepass gilt noch bis zum nächsten Jahr.

Another related word is 'betreffen' (to concern / to affect). When you say 'Das Gesetz gilt für alle', you could also say 'Das Gesetz betrifft alle'. While the practical outcome is similar, the nuance is slightly different. 'Gelten für' emphasizes the legal or formal application of a rule, whereas 'betreffen' emphasizes the impact or consequence on the people involved.

Gelten vs. Betreffen: 'Gelten für' focuses on the rule's jurisdiction. 'Betreffen' focuses on who feels the effects of the rule.

Diese neue Regelung gilt für alle Abteilungen der Firma.

When dealing with the meaning 'to be considered as' ('gelten als'), a common synonym is 'angesehen werden als' (to be viewed as). 'Er gilt als Experte' is synonymous with 'Er wird als Experte angesehen'. The phrase with 'gelten' is more concise and is considered better style in journalistic writing, whereas 'angesehen werden' is a passive construction that can sometimes sound a bit clunky, though it is perfectly correct.

Reputation Synonyms: 'Gelten als' is the active, elegant way to state a reputation. 'Angesehen werden als' is the passive equivalent.

Das Buch gilt als ein Meisterwerk der modernen Literatur.

In informal contexts, especially among children playing games, 'zählen' (to count) is often used similarly to 'gelten'. If a child breaks a rule, another might yell 'Das gilt nicht!' (That doesn't count/isn't fair!). They could equally yell 'Das zählt nicht!'. In this specific context of scoring or validating an action in a game, the two verbs are interchangeable.

Ein Tor aus dem Abseits gilt natürlich nicht.

Lastly, the verb 'anwenden' (to apply) is related but distinct. While 'gelten für' means a rule applies to someone (the state of being applicable), 'anwenden' is the active process of applying a rule or method. You apply (anwenden) a rule that is valid (gilt). Understanding these subtle distinctions between gelten, gültig sein, betreffen, angesehen werden, zählen, and anwenden will significantly enrich your German vocabulary and allow you to express yourself with much greater precision.

Active vs. State: 'Gelten' describes the state of validity. 'Anwenden' describes the human action of enforcing that validity.

Wir müssen prüfen, ob dieses alte Gesetz noch gilt.

How Formal Is It?

Difficulty Rating

Grammar to Know

Strong verb vowel changes (e to i)

Prepositions with the accusative (für)

The nominative case after 'als'

Dative verbs

Impersonal expressions (es gilt zu)

Examples by Level

Das Ticket gilt heute.

The ticket is valid today.

'Gilt' is the 3rd person singular of 'gelten'.

Gilt das Angebot noch?

Is the offer still valid?

Question structure: Verb first.

Die Fahrkarte gilt nicht.

The ticket is not valid.

Negation with 'nicht' after the verb.

Das gilt für den Bus.

That is valid for the bus.

Using 'für' + accusative.

Hier gilt Tempo 30.

A speed limit of 30 applies here.

Common phrase for traffic rules.

Gilt der Pass noch?

Is the passport still valid?

Used for official documents.

Das gilt ab morgen.

That is valid from tomorrow.

Using 'ab' to show starting time.

Der Gutschein gilt hier.

The voucher is valid here.

Simple statement of validity.

Diese Regel gilt für alle Schüler.

This rule applies to all students.

'gelten für' + accusative plural.

Das Ticket gilt nur in der zweiten Klasse.

The ticket is only valid in second class.

Adding conditions with 'nur in'.

Gestern galt ein anderes Gesetz.

Yesterday a different law applied.

Präteritum (simple past) form: 'galt'.

Das gilt nicht als Entschuldigung.

That doesn't count as an excuse.

Introduction to 'gelten als'.

Für Kinder gilt der halbe Preis.

Half price applies to children.

'für' + accusative at the start of the sentence.

Schummeln gilt nicht in diesem Spiel!

Cheating doesn't count/isn't allowed in this game!

Colloquial use for game rules.

Der Vertrag gilt für ein Jahr.

The contract is valid for one year.

Expressing duration.

Ab wann gilt der neue Fahrplan?

From when is the new timetable valid?

Question word 'Ab wann'.

Er gilt als einer der besten Ärzte der Stadt.

He is considered one of the best doctors in the city.

'gelten als' + nominative case.

Diese Vorschrift gilt europaweit.

This regulation applies throughout Europe.

Using compound adverbs like 'europaweit'.

Das Gesetz hat lange Zeit gegolten.

The law was valid for a long time.

Perfekt tense: 'hat gegolten'.

Mein Dank gilt allen, die geholfen haben.

My thanks go to everyone who helped.

Dative usage: 'gilt allen'.

Die Schweiz gilt als sehr sicheres Land.

Switzerland is considered a very safe country.

'als' + nominative neuter.

Diese Ausnahme gilt nur unter bestimmten Bedingungen.

This exception only applies under certain conditions.

Prepositional phrase 'unter Bedingungen'.

Es gilt, keine Zeit zu verlieren.

It is important to lose no time.

Idiomatic structure 'Es gilt, zu...' (It is necessary to).

Das Ticket gilt ab dem Zeitpunkt der Entwertung.

The ticket is valid from the moment of validation.

Formal vocabulary 'Zeitpunkt der Entwertung'.

Die Unschuldsvermutung gilt, bis die Schuld bewiesen ist.

The presumption of innocence applies until guilt is proven.

Legal context, complex sentence with 'bis'.

Er möchte seine Rechte vor Gericht geltend machen.

He wants to assert his rights in court.

Fixed expression 'Rechte geltend machen'.

Obwohl sie als Favoritin galt, verlor sie das Spiel.

Although she was considered the favorite, she lost the game.

Concessive clause with 'Obwohl' and Präteritum.

Diese Regelung gilt unbeschadet anderer gesetzlicher Bestimmungen.

This regulation applies without prejudice to other legal provisions.

Highly formal preposition 'unbeschadet'.

Unsere volle Solidarität gilt den Opfern der Katastrophe.

Our full solidarity goes to the victims of the disaster.

Formal dative expression of sympathy.

Es gilt als erwiesen, dass Rauchen der Gesundheit schadet.

It is considered proven that smoking harms health.

Impersonal passive-like structure 'Es gilt als erwiesen'.

Die Fahrkarte gilt für beliebig viele Fahrten im Netz.

The ticket is valid for any number of journeys in the network.

Advanced quantifier 'beliebig viele'.

Lassen Sie das nicht als Ausrede gelten!

Don't let that count as an excuse!

Imperative with 'lassen' + 'gelten'.

In der Wissenschaft gilt diese Hypothese mittlerweile als obsolet.

In science, this hypothesis is now considered obsolete.

Academic register, 'mittlerweile als obsolet'.

Es gilt das gesprochene Wort, nicht das vorab verteilte Manuskript.

The spoken word applies, not the previously distributed manuscript.

Standard political disclaimer.

Der Vertrag verliert seine Geltung, sobald eine Partei widerspricht.

The contract loses its validity as soon as one party objects.

Using the noun form 'Geltung'.

Er hat ein starkes Geltungsbedürfnis und steht gern im Mittelpunkt.

He has a strong need for recognition and likes to be the center of attention.

Compound noun 'Geltungsbedürfnis'.

Diese Bestimmung gilt sinngemäß auch für alle Unterauftragnehmer.

This provision applies mutatis mutandis (correspondingly) to all subcontractors.

Legal terminology 'sinngemäß'.

Ihre Kritik galt weniger dem Inhalt als vielmehr der Form.

Her criticism was directed less at the content than at the form.

Comparative structure 'weniger ... als vielmehr' with dative.

Um die Ziele zu erreichen, gilt es nun, alle Kräfte zu bündeln.

To achieve the goals, it is now necessary to pool all resources.

Idiomatic 'es gilt, zu...' for urgent necessity.

Das Urteil hat präjudizielle Wirkung und gilt für künftige Fälle.

The judgment has a prejudicial effect and applies to future cases.

Advanced legal vocabulary.

Die universellen Menschenrechte beanspruchen weltweite Geltung.

Universal human rights claim worldwide validity.

Collocation 'Geltung beanspruchen'.

Galt die klassische Physik lange als unantastbar, brachte die Quantenmechanik einen Paradigmenwechsel.

While classical physics was long considered untouchable, quantum mechanics brought a paradigm shift.

Elliptical concessive clause starting with the verb 'Galt'.

Der Geltungsbereich dieser Richtlinie erstreckt sich auf den gesamten europäischen Wirtschaftsraum.

The scope of application of this directive extends to the entire European Economic Area.

Highly formal compound 'Geltungsbereich'.

Seine Argumentation, so brillant sie auch schien, konnte vor dem Prüfungsausschuss nicht gelten.

His argumentation, as brilliant as it seemed, could not hold up before the examination board.

'gelten' meaning to hold up/be accepted in a debate.

Es gilt als ausgemacht, dass die Reformen weitreichende Konsequenzen haben werden.

It is considered a foregone conclusion that the reforms will have far-reaching consequences.

Fixed phrase 'Es gilt als ausgemacht'.

Dem Künstler ging es darum, das Unaussprechliche zur Geltung zu bringen.

The artist's aim was to bring the inexpressible to the fore/make it valid.

Phrase 'zur Geltung bringen'.

Jedwede Zuwiderhandlung macht die getroffenen Vereinbarungen hinfällig, es gilt dann wieder das alte Recht.

Any contravention renders the agreements null and void; the old law then applies again.

Complex legal syntax.

Ihm galt ihr ganzer Hass, eine Emotion, die sie über Jahre kultiviert hatte.

Her entire hatred was directed at him, an emotion she had cultivated for years.

Fronted dative object 'Ihm galt' for literary emphasis.

Synonyms

gültig sein betreffen zählen angesehen werden als anwendbar sein maßgeblich sein sich beziehen auf wirksam sein

Antonyms

ungültig sein ablaufen verfallen nicht zählen

Common Collocations

als Experte gelten

für alle gelten

ab sofort gelten

nicht mehr gelten

als sicher gelten

als erwiesen gelten

die Regel gilt

das Gesetz gilt

der Vertrag gilt

als Vorbild gelten

Common Phrases

Das gilt nicht!

Es gilt das gesprochene Wort.

Was gilt heute?

Das gilt auch für dich.

Lass das nicht gelten.

Hier gilt Tempo 30.

Es gilt, ruhig zu bleiben.

Das lasse ich gelten.

Dasselbe gilt für...

Wem gilt das?

Often Confused With

gelten vs gültig (adjective)

gelten vs betreffen (verb)

gelten vs zählen (verb)

Idioms & Expressions

"etwas geltend machen"

"zur Geltung kommen"

"zur Geltung bringen"

"Geltung beanspruchen"

"es gilt Ernst"

"Geltung verschaffen"

"es gilt, Farbe zu bekennen"

"das gilt es zu beweisen"

"es gilt als ausgemacht"

"etwas zur Geltung verhelfen"

Easily Confused

gelten vs

Sentence Patterns

How to Use It

nuances

Bridges the gap between concrete legal validity and abstract societal reputation.

frequency

Extremely high. Top 500 German words.

common errors

Using accusative after 'als', forgetting the vowel change in 3rd person singular.

Common Mistakes

Saying 'er gelt' instead of 'er gilt'.
Using the accusative case after 'gelten als' (e.g., 'Er gilt als einen Experten').
Confusing the verb 'gelten' with the adjective 'gültig' (e.g., 'Das Ticket ist gelten').
Using 'gelten für' when you mean 'gelten als' (e.g., 'Er gilt für einen Experten').
Attempting to use 'gelten' in the passive voice (e.g., 'Das Ticket wird gegolten').

Tips

The Vowel Shift

Always remember the e-to-i vowel shift in the present tense. It is 'er gilt', not 'er gelt'. Write 'ES GILT' on a sticky note and put it on your mirror, as this is the form you will use 90% of the time.

Ticket Vocabulary

When traveling in Germany, always look for the word 'gilt' on your ticket. It will tell you exactly when and where you are allowed to travel. If a conductor says 'gilt nicht', you might have to pay a fine!

Nominative with 'als'

Treat 'gelten als' like the verb 'sein'. Whatever follows 'als' describes the subject, so it must be in the nominative case. 'Sie gilt als die Beste' (She is considered the best).

Sounding Academic

If you are writing an essay or giving a presentation, use 'gelten als' instead of 'sein' to express opinions. It makes your German sound much more objective, professional, and native-like.

Playing Games

If you play board games or sports with Germans, memorize the phrase 'Das gilt nicht!'. It's the perfect way to call out someone who is cheating or breaking the rules.

Für vs. Als

Never mix up 'für' and 'als'. 'Gelten für' means a rule applies TO someone (target). 'Gelten als' means someone is considered AS something (reputation). They are completely different concepts.

Formal Letters

If you need to write a formal letter of thanks or condolence, use the dative structure. 'Mein Dank gilt Ihnen' (My thanks go to you) is highly elegant and respectful.

Time Prepositions

Combine 'gelten' with 'ab' (from) or 'bis' (until) to express timeframes. 'Gilt ab Montag' means it starts Monday. 'Gilt bis Freitag' means it ends Friday. This is crucial for shopping and contracts.

No Passive Voice

Do not try to make 'gelten' passive. It already describes a state of being. 'Das Gesetz wird gegolten' is wrong. Just say 'Das Gesetz gilt'.

Es gilt zu...

Use the advanced phrase 'Es gilt, [Infinitive] zu [Verb]' to sound like a true C1/C2 speaker. 'Es gilt, das Problem zu lösen' (It is necessary to solve the problem). It shows great command of idiomatic German.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

A 'GILT' (gold) coin is always VALID. Think of 'gelten' as something having the solid validity of gold.

Word Origin

Middle High German 'gelten', Old High German 'geltan' (to pay, to sacrifice, to be worth).

Cultural Context

Using 'Das gilt nicht' in an argument implies a breach of an agreed-upon social contract.

Can be used in highly formal legal texts or informal children's games.

Universally understood across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Conversation Starters

"Gilt dein Ticket für die ganze Stadt?"

"Für wen gelten diese neuen Regeln eigentlich?"

"Wer gilt in deinem Land als der beste Autor?"

"Gilt das Angebot im Schaufenster noch?"

"Warum gilt diese Ausnahme nicht für uns?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a rule in your house. Für wen gilt sie?

Write about someone famous. Als was gilt diese Person?

Think of a time you felt something was unfair. Why did you think 'Das gilt nicht'?

Invent a new law. Ab wann gilt es und für wen?

Write a thank you note using the dative form: 'Mein Dank gilt...'

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, 'gelten' is an intransitive verb in its primary meanings and cannot be used in the passive voice. You cannot say 'Das Ticket wird gegolten'. Instead, you use the active voice 'Das Ticket gilt' to express the state of validity. The verb inherently describes a state, not an action done to an object.

The phrase 'gelten als' requires the noun following 'als' to be in the same case as the subject. Since the subject 'Er' is in the nominative case, 'ein Experte' must also be in the nominative case. This is a common exception to the rule that prepositions usually take accusative or dative.

There is virtually no difference in meaning when discussing validity. 'Das Ticket gilt' and 'Das Ticket ist gültig' mean exactly the same thing. 'Gelten' is a verb, while 'gültig' is an adjective. 'Gelten' is often preferred in spoken German because it is shorter.

'Gelten' is a strong verb with a vowel change in the second and third person singular. The conjugation is: ich gelte, du giltst, er/sie/es gilt, wir gelten, ihr geltet, sie/Sie gelten. The most important form to remember is 'es gilt', as it is the most frequently used.

In colloquial German, especially among children or in informal settings, 'Das gilt nicht!' means 'That doesn't count!' or 'That's not fair!'. It is used when someone breaks a rule in a game or an agreed-upon social dynamic.

Yes, in highly formal contexts, 'gelten' can take a dative object to mean 'is directed at' or 'is meant for'. For example, 'Mein Beileid gilt der Familie' means 'My condolences go to the family'. This is mostly used in written German or formal speeches.

The simple past (Präteritum) is 'galt' (e.g., 'Das Gesetz galt'). The present perfect (Perfekt) is 'hat gegolten' (e.g., 'Das Gesetz hat gegolten'). The Präteritum is very common in written texts, while the Perfekt is used in spoken German.

You use the structure 'gelten für' followed by the accusative case. For example, 'Die Regel gilt für dich' (The rule applies to you). You cannot use the dative case here; it must be 'für' + accusative.

The phrase 'Es gilt zu...' followed by an infinitive is an idiomatic expression meaning 'It is necessary to...' or 'The task at hand is to...'. For example, 'Es gilt, eine Lösung zu finden' means 'It is necessary to find a solution'.

No, 'gelten' itself is not separable. However, it forms the base for several separable and inseparable prefix verbs, such as 'abgelten' (separable, to compensate) and 'entgelten' (inseparable, to remunerate).

Test Yourself 200 questions

writing

Write a sentence stating that a train ticket is valid for two days.

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

Use 'gilt' + 'für' + time period.