This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A1 verb #3,000 most common 11 min read

schenken

Top 3,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips schenken in 30 Seconds

Explanation schenken in your Level:

At the A1 level, you learn 'schenken' as a simple action verb meaning 'to give a gift'. You should focus on the basic sentence structure: Subject + schenken + Person (Dative) + Thing (Accusative). You will mostly use it in the context of birthdays and Christmas. For example, 'Ich schenke meiner Mutter Blumen' (I give my mother flowers). You should also learn the basic conjugation in the present tense (ich schenke, du schenkst) and the Perfekt (ich habe geschenkt). At this stage, don't worry about complex idioms; just focus on the physical act of giving a present. It is one of the first verbs where you see the Dative case in action, so it is a great way to practice 'mir', 'dir', 'ihm', and 'ihr'. Remember that 'schenken' is a regular verb, so its patterns are predictable and easy to memorize.

At the A2 level, you expand your use of 'schenken' to include more variety in recipients and gifts. You start using plural Dative forms, like 'Ich schenke den Kindern (Dat. Pl.) Spielzeug.' You also begin to use it with prepositions, especially 'zu' for occasions: 'Was schenkst du ihm zum Geburtstag?' You might also encounter the noun 'das Geschenk' (the gift) and the related verb 'einschenken' (to pour a drink) in restaurant settings. You should be comfortable using 'schenken' in the past tense (Perfekt) to talk about events that already happened. You'll also learn to distinguish it more clearly from 'geben', realizing that 'schenken' always implies a gift-giving context. You might also see it in simple compound words like 'Geschenkpapier' (wrapping paper).

At the B1 level, you begin to use 'schenken' in more abstract and metaphorical ways. You might 'schenken' someone your attention (Aufmerksamkeit) or trust (Vertrauen). You will also encounter the reflexive use 'sich etwas schenken', which colloquially means 'to skip' or 'to not bother with something'. For example, 'Die Vorrede können wir uns schenken' (We can skip the introduction). Your grammar should be more precise, handling the word order when both objects are pronouns ('Ich schenke es ihm'). You will also start to recognize 'schenken' in passive constructions, such as 'Mir wurde ein Buch geschenkt.' You'll understand the cultural significance of gift-giving rituals in Germany and be able to discuss them using this verb. You might also learn synonyms like 'beschenken' and understand the grammatical difference.

At the B2 level, you use 'schenken' with nuance and style. You are familiar with common idioms like 'Einem geschenkten Gaul schaut man nicht ins Maul' (Don't look a gift horse in the mouth). You can use the verb in formal contexts, perhaps substituting it with 'überreichen' or 'verleihen' when appropriate, but knowing when 'schenken' provides the right emotional touch. You understand the nuances of the past participle 'geschenkt' as an adjective meaning 'very cheap' or 'effortless'. You can participate in complex discussions about the ethics of gifting or the commercialization of holidays, using 'schenken' as a central theme. Your use of 'schenken' in the subjunctive II (Konjunktiv II) is fluid: 'Ich würde dir gerne ein Haus schenken, wenn ich reich wäre.'

At the C1 level, 'schenken' is a versatile tool in your vocabulary. You understand its historical roots and how it relates to hospitality ('Ausschank', 'Schenke'). You can use it in literary or highly formal contexts, such as 'jemandem Gehör schenken' (to grant someone a hearing/to listen to someone). You are aware of legal terms like 'Schenkung' (donation/gift in a legal sense) and 'Schenkungssteuer' (gift tax). You can analyze the use of 'schenken' in classical German literature (e.g., Goethe or Schiller) and understand the subtle power dynamics it can imply. You use the verb effortlessly in all tenses and moods, including complex passive and infinitive constructions. You can also play with the word's meaning in creative writing or sophisticated debates.

At the C2 level, your mastery of 'schenken' is indistinguishable from that of a native speaker. You use it with total idiomatic precision, even in its most obscure or regional variations. You might use it in philosophical discussions about 'the gift' as a concept (Mauss, Derrida). You can detect subtle irony when someone says 'Das ist geschenkt' in a sarcastic way. You are fully comfortable with all related technical terms in law, history, and linguistics. You can explain the etymological shift from 'pouring a drink' to 'giving a gift' to others. Your command of the verb allows you to use it as a subtle rhetorical device, choosing it over 'geben' or 'spenden' to evoke specific emotional or cultural connotations in high-level discourse.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

schenken in 30 Seconds

Schenken is the specific German verb for giving a gift, distinct from the general verb 'geben'.
It uses a Dative recipient (whom) and an Accusative object (what), following a strict grammatical pattern.
Commonly used for birthdays, holidays, and expressing affection, it can also be used metaphorically for attention or trust.
The past participle 'geschenkt' is used in the Perfekt tense and can also mean 'extremely cheap' or 'for free'.

The German verb schenken is a cornerstone of social interaction in German-speaking cultures, representing the act of giving something as a gift. While the English verb 'to give' can be translated as either 'geben' or 'schenken', the latter specifically implies a lack of transaction or obligation; it is an act of generosity, affection, or celebration. Understanding schenken is essential for navigating birthdays, holidays, and social gatherings in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

Core Concept: The fundamental essence of schenken is the transfer of ownership without payment. It focuses on the intent behind the giving. In a grammatical sense, it almost always requires a recipient (Dative) and an object (Accusative). If you simply hand someone a pen to use for a moment, you use geben. If you give them the pen to keep forever as a token of friendship, you use schenken.
Emotional Nuance: When a German speaker uses schenken, they are invoking a sense of joy and interpersonal connection. It is not merely a physical action but a social contract of goodwill. It is used for tangible items like books, jewelry, or toys, but can also be used metaphorically for intangible things like time, attention, or a smile.

Ich möchte dir zu deinem Geburtstag etwas ganz Besonderes schenken.

Translation: I would like to give you something very special for your birthday.

In German culture, the act of schenken is often ritualized. For instance, during Christmas (Weihnachten), the 'Bescherung' is the specific time when gifts are exchanged. Using the word schenken correctly during these times shows not only linguistic proficiency but also cultural sensitivity. It is important to note that the word is often paired with the preposition 'zu' when indicating the occasion, such as 'zum Geburtstag' (for the birthday) or 'zur Hochzeit' (for the wedding).

Wir schenken unseren Eltern eine Reise nach Italien.

Translation: We are gifting our parents a trip to Italy.

Metaphorical Usage: Beyond physical objects, you can schenken attention (Aufmerksamkeit), trust (Vertrauen), or even a second chance (eine zweite Chance). This elevates the word from a simple transaction to a deeply human expression of value. For example, 'Er schenkte ihr ein Lächeln' (He gave her a smile) implies a moment of genuine connection.

Sie hat ihm ihre volle Aufmerksamkeit geschenkt.

Translation: She gave him her full attention.

Finally, the passive or idiomatic use of the past participle 'geschenkt' can mean 'for free' or 'it’s a given'. If someone says 'Das ist geschenkt!', they might mean the price is so low it feels like a gift, or that a situation is so easy it requires no effort. Understanding these layers helps a learner move from A1 basics to a more natural, fluent grasp of German social dynamics.

Using schenken correctly in a sentence requires a solid understanding of German sentence structure, specifically the interaction between the subject, the verb, and the two objects it typically takes: the Dative object (the recipient) and the Accusative object (the gift).

The Dative/Accusative Rule: In German, verbs like schenken follow the 'Who (Nom) gives whom (Dat) what (Acc)' pattern. The person receiving the gift is in the Dative case, and the item being given is in the Accusative case. For example: 'Ich (Nom) schenke meinem Bruder (Dat) einen Schal (Acc).' Notice how 'meinem Bruder' changes ending to reflect the Dative masculine, and 'einen Schal' reflects the Accusative masculine.

Der Vater schenkt der Tochter ein Fahrrad.

Translation: The father gives the daughter a bicycle (as a gift).

When pronouns are used, the order can change. If both objects are pronouns, the Accusative pronoun usually comes before the Dative pronoun: 'Ich schenke es (Acc) ihm (Dat).' (I gift it to him). However, if one is a noun and one is a pronoun, the pronoun generally comes first regardless of case. This flexibility is a key part of German syntax that learners must practice to sound natural.

Was schenkst du deiner Freundin zu Weihnachten?

Translation: What are you giving your girlfriend for Christmas?

Conjugation Patterns: Schenken is a weak (regular) verb, which makes it easier for beginners. In the present tense: ich schenke, du schenkst, er/sie/es schenkt, wir schenken, ihr schenkt, sie schenken. In the Perfekt (past) tense, it uses the auxiliary verb 'haben' and the past participle 'geschenkt'. Example: 'Ich habe ihm ein Buch geschenkt.'

Sie hat uns Karten für das Konzert geschenkt.

Translation: She gave us tickets for the concert.

In more advanced usage, schenken can appear in the passive voice: 'Mir wurde ein Auto geschenkt' (A car was given to me). Or it can be used reflexively in certain dialects or poetic contexts, though 'sich etwas schenken' often means 'to skip something' or 'to not bother with something' in colloquial German. For example, 'Das können wir uns schenken' means 'We can skip that/We don't need to do that.'

Common Prepositions: The most common preposition used with schenken is 'zu' (to/for) to indicate the occasion. 'Zu' always takes the Dative case: 'zum Geburtstag' (masculine/neuter), 'zur Hochzeit' (feminine). Another preposition is 'aus' (out of), as in 'aus Liebe schenken' (to give out of love).

Er schenkt ihr Blumen einfach nur aus Liebe.

Translation: He is giving her flowers simply out of love.

The word schenken is ubiquitous in German daily life. You will hear it in cozy living rooms during family celebrations, in bustling department stores during the holiday season, and in heartfelt conversations between friends. It is a word that carries the warmth of German 'Gemütlichkeit' and the importance of social bonds.

At Birthdays and Holidays: The most common place to hear schenken is during a 'Geburtstagsfeier' (birthday party). Guests will ask each other, 'Was hast du ihm geschenkt?' (What did you give him?). During December, the word is everywhere. Radio ads, shop windows, and Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte) all revolve around the theme of 'Schenken und Beschenktwerden' (giving and being given to).

In Deutschland schenkt man sich an Heiligabend die Geschenke.

Translation: In Germany, people give each other gifts on Christmas Eve.

In commercial contexts, you might see signs that say 'Wir schenken Ihnen die Mehrwertsteuer!' (We are giving you the VAT for free!). This is a common marketing tactic where the store 'gifts' the tax amount as a discount. Here, schenken is used to make a sale feel like an act of generosity, highlighting how the word can be manipulated for psychological impact in advertising.

Die Firma schenkt jedem Mitarbeiter einen Gutschein.

Translation: The company is giving every employee a voucher.

In Literature and Music: German poetry and songs are filled with the word schenken. It often appears in romantic contexts, where lovers 'schenken' their hearts (ihr Herz schenken) or eternal loyalty (ewige Treue). This elevated usage is common in 'Schlager' music and classic literature, where the act of giving symbolizes total devotion.

„Schenk mir dein Herz“, sang der junge Mann unter ihrem Fenster.

Translation: "Give me your heart," the young man sang under her window.

Finally, in the service industry, specifically in bars and restaurants, you will hear a related word: einschenken. While schenken is to gift, einschenken is to pour a drink. If a waiter asks 'Soll ich Ihnen noch etwas Wein einschenken?', they are asking to pour more wine. The linguistic root is the same—historically, 'schenken' meant to pour or serve, and serving a guest was considered a gift of hospitality.

Soll ich dir noch ein Glas Saft einschenken?

Translation: Shall I pour you another glass of juice?

For English speakers, the verb schenken presents several grammatical and conceptual pitfalls. The most frequent errors involve case confusion, preposition misuse, and choosing the wrong verb for 'to give'.

The 'To' Trap: In English, we often say 'I give a gift to you.' Beginners frequently try to translate this literally as 'Ich schenke ein Geschenk zu dir' or 'an dich'. This is incorrect. In German, the 'to' is built into the Dative case. You must say 'Ich schenke dir ein Geschenk.' No preposition is needed for the recipient.

Falsch: Ich schenke Blumen für meine Mutter.
Richtig: Ich schenke meiner Mutter Blumen.

Explanation: Use the Dative case for the recipient, not a preposition.

Another common mistake is confusing schenken with geben. While all 'schenken' actions are 'geben' actions, not all 'geben' actions are 'schenken'. If you are paying for something, or if it's a routine hand-off, use geben. If you say 'Der Kellner hat mir den Wein geschenkt,' it means the waiter gave you the wine for free as a gift. If you just mean he served it to you, you should say 'Der Kellner hat mir den Wein gegeben' (or eingeschenkt).

Falsch: Kannst du mir bitte das Salz schenken?
Richtig: Kannst du mir bitte das Salz geben?

Explanation: You don't 'gift' salt at the dinner table; you just pass it.

Case Errors with Pronouns: Learners often use the Nominative or Accusative form of pronouns for the recipient. Remember: 'mich' (Acc) and 'dich' (Acc) are for the object being gifted (rarely), while 'mir' (Dat) and 'dir' (Dat) are for the person receiving it. Saying 'Ich schenke dich ein Buch' sounds like you are gifting the person to the book!

Falsch: Er schenkt sie einen Ring.
Richtig: Er schenkt ihr einen Ring.

Explanation: 'Ihr' is the Dative form of 'sie' (her).

Lastly, be careful with the word 'beschenken'. This is a related verb that takes only an Accusative object—the person. 'Ich beschenke meine Mutter' is correct and means 'I provide my mother with gifts.' In this case, you don't mention the specific gift in the same way. Beginners often mix the two: 'Ich beschenke meiner Mutter ein Buch' is a double error (wrong case and wrong verb for the context).

While schenken is the most common word for gifting, German offers a variety of synonyms and related terms that carry different registers and nuances. Choosing the right one can make your German sound more sophisticated and precise.

Schenken vs. Geben: As discussed, geben is the general term for 'to give'. It is neutral and functional. Schenken is specific to gifts. Use geben for: 'Geld geben' (giving money as payment), 'die Hand geben' (shaking hands), or 'eine Antwort geben' (giving an answer).
Beschenken: This verb focuses on the recipient rather than the gift. It means 'to present someone with gifts'. It takes an Accusative object. 'Der Weihnachtsmann beschenkt die Kinder' (Santa presents the children with gifts). It is often used when the specific items are numerous or unspecified.
Überreichen: This is a formal alternative, meaning 'to present' or 'to hand over solemnly'. You would hear this at an award ceremony or a formal diplomatic meeting. 'Der Präsident überreichte dem Sieger die Medaille' (The president presented the winner with the medal).

Der Chef überreichte ihr die Urkunde zum Firmenjubiläum.

Translation: The boss presented her with the certificate for the company anniversary.

Other alternatives include spenden (to donate), used for charities or blood donations, and stiften (to endow/found), used for large-scale philanthropy or creating a foundation. If you are giving a small tip, you might use zustecken (to slip someone something), which implies a discreet or quick action.

Wir spenden jedes Jahr Geld für das Tierheim.

Translation: We donate money to the animal shelter every year.

In a colloquial setting, you might encounter vermachen (to leave someone something in a will) or ausgeben (to spend/treat). If you buy a round of drinks for your friends, you say 'Ich gebe eine Runde aus!' rather than 'Ich schenke euch Bier'. The latter would sound like you are giving them bottled beer to take home as a birthday present.

Heute gebe ich das Mittagessen aus!

Translation: Today I'm paying for lunch (treating you)!

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"Wir schenken Ihren Ausführungen unsere volle Aufmerksamkeit."

Neutral

"Ich schenke meiner Mutter ein Parfüm."

Informal

"Schenk mir doch mal 'ne Minute!"

Child friendly

"Der Osterhase schenkt dir bunte Eier."

Slang

"Die Prüfung war geschenkt!"

Fun Fact

Because serving wine or ale was such a vital part of hosting, the word for 'pouring' (schenken) eventually evolved to mean 'giving a gift' in general. This is also why a traditional German pub is called a 'Schenke'.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈʃɛŋkən/

US /ˈʃɛŋkən/

The stress is on the first syllable: SCHEN-ken.

Rhymes With

denken lenken senken tanken (near rhyme) schwenken renken henken versenken

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'sch' as 's'.
Making the 'e' too long (like 'shayn-ken').
Dropping the final 'n'.
Confusing the 'nk' sound with a soft 'ng'.
Over-aspirating the 'k'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

Very easy to recognize in text.

Writing 3/5

Requires correct handling of Dative and Accusative cases.

Speaking 2/5

Easy to pronounce, but case endings must be correct.

Listening 1/5

Clear sound, usually easy to distinguish from 'geben'.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

geben das Buch die Mutter der Geburtstag mir/dir

Learn Next

beschenken einschenken das Geschenk die Überraschung gratulieren

Advanced

die Schenkungssteuer Gehör schenken reinen Wein einschenken

Grammar to Know

Dative Case for Indirect Objects

Ich schenke meinem Bruder (Dat) ein Buch.

Accusative Case for Direct Objects

Ich schenke ihm einen Hund (Acc).

Word Order with Two Pronouns

Ich schenke es (Acc) ihm (Dat).

Separable Verbs (einschenken)

Ich schenke dir Wein ein.

Weak Verb Conjugation

Er schenkte (Präteritum) ihr eine Rose.

Examples by Level

Ich schenke dir ein Buch.

I give you a book (as a gift).

'dir' is Dative (recipient), 'ein Buch' is Accusative (object).

Was schenkst du deiner Mutter?

What are you giving your mother?

'deiner Mutter' is Dative feminine.

Wir schenken Opa eine Uhr.

We are giving Grandpa a watch.

'Opa' is Dative masculine.

Er schenkt ihr Blumen.

He gives her flowers.

'ihr' is the Dative pronoun for 'sie' (her).

Schenkst du mir ein Lächeln?

Will you give me a smile?

Metaphorical use of 'schenken'.

Sie schenkt dem Kind einen Ball.

She gives the child a ball.

'dem Kind' is Dative neuter.

Ich habe ihm Schokolade geschenkt.

I gave him chocolate.

Perfekt tense: haben + geschenkt.

Schenken macht Spaß!

Giving gifts is fun!

The verb 'schenken' used as a gerund/noun.

Was habt ihr euch zu Weihnachten geschenkt?

What did you give each other for Christmas?

Reflexive 'euch' (to each other) in Dative.

Ich möchte meinen Freunden etwas Kleines schenken.

I want to give my friends something small.

'meinen Freunden' is Dative plural.

Darf ich Ihnen noch etwas Wein einschenken?

May I pour you some more wine?

'einschenken' is a separable verb related to 'schenken'.

Sie schenkt dem Lehrer einen Apfel.

She gives the teacher an apple.

Dative recipient 'dem Lehrer'.

Wir haben der Nachbarin einen Kuchen geschenkt.

We gave the neighbor a cake.

'der Nachbarin' is Dative feminine.

Er schenkt seinem Bruder ein Ticket für das Spiel.

He gives his brother a ticket for the game.

Dative possessive 'seinem Bruder'.

Schenken Sie uns bitte ein paar Minuten Ihrer Zeit.

Please give us a few minutes of your time.

Formal 'Sie' and Dative 'uns'.

Zum Abschied hat er mir ein Foto geschenkt.

As a farewell, he gave me a photo.

'Zum Abschied' indicates the occasion.

Das können wir uns schenken, das ist Zeitverschwendung.

We can skip that; it's a waste of time.

Reflexive idiom 'sich etwas schenken' meaning to skip.

Mir wurde zum Jubiläum eine goldene Uhr geschenkt.

I was given a gold watch for the anniversary.

Passive voice with Dative recipient.

Er schenkt ihr volles Vertrauen.

He gives her his full trust.

Abstract Accusative object 'Vertrauen'.

Schenken Sie dem Problem nicht zu viel Beachtung.

Don't pay too much attention to the problem.

Imperative with abstract object 'Beachtung'.

Die Kinder haben sich gegenseitig Bilder geschenkt.

The children gave each other pictures.

'gegenseitig' emphasizes the reciprocal action.

Ich habe es ihr geschenkt, weil sie es so gerne wollte.

I gave it to her because she wanted it so much.

Word order: Accusative pronoun 'es' before Dative 'ihr'.

Warum schenkst du mir keine Aufmerksamkeit?

Why aren't you paying attention to me?

Metaphorical use in a question.

Es ist schön, anderen eine Freude zu schenken.

It is nice to give others joy.

Infinitive construction.

Einem geschenkten Gaul schaut man nicht ins Maul.

Don't look a gift horse in the mouth.

Classic German idiom using the past participle as an adjective.

Für fünf Euro ist das Buch praktisch geschenkt.

For five euros, the book is practically a gift (very cheap).

'geschenkt' used to mean very inexpensive.

Sie schenkte ihm ein verächtliches Lächeln.

She gave him a look of contempt.

Nuanced metaphorical use.

Der Autor schenkt den Details in seinem Roman große Aufmerksamkeit.

The author pays great attention to the details in his novel.

Formal usage in literary criticism.

Ich schenke dir mein Wort, dass ich pünktlich sein werde.

I give you my word that I will be on time.

Idiom: 'jemandem sein Wort schenken'.

Man sollte sich selbst öfter mal etwas schenken.

One should treat oneself more often.

Reflexive use for self-care.

Die Natur schenkt uns in diesem Frühling eine prachtvolle Blüte.

Nature is giving us a magnificent bloom this spring.

Personification of nature.

Er schenkte der Zeugin keinen Glauben.

He did not believe the witness (He gave her no belief).

Idiom: 'jemandem Glauben schenken' (to believe someone).

Die Regierung schenkte den Forderungen der Opposition kein Gehör.

The government did not grant the opposition's demands a hearing.

High-level idiom: 'jemandem Gehör schenken'.

In seinem Testament schenkte er sein gesamtes Vermögen einer Stiftung.

In his will, he gifted his entire fortune to a foundation.

Legal/Formal context.

Die Muse schenkte dem Dichter die nötige Inspiration.

The muse gave the poet the necessary inspiration.

Literary/Poetic language.

Diese Entdeckung schenkte der Forschung völlig neue Perspektiven.

This discovery gave research completely new perspectives.

Abstract academic usage.

Man darf der Propaganda keinesfalls Glauben schenken.

One must by no means give credence to the propaganda.

Formal warning/instruction.

Der Sieg schenkte dem Team neues Selbstvertrauen.

The victory gave the team new self-confidence.

Abstract result of an action.

Sie schenkte ihm die Freiheit, seine eigenen Entscheidungen zu treffen.

She gave him the freedom to make his own decisions.

Philosophical/Relational context.

Das Schicksal schenkte ihnen eine zweite Chance.

Fate gave them a second chance.

Abstract personification.

Die Großzügigkeit, mit der er sein Wissen schenkt, ist beispiellos.

The generosity with which he shares (gifts) his knowledge is unparalleled.

Elevated use of 'schenken' for sharing knowledge.

Es ist eine Gabe, anderen Menschen Trost zu schenken.

It is a gift to be able to give comfort to others.

Subtle play on 'Gabe' (gift) and 'schenken'.

Die Architektur schenkt dem Raum eine fast sakrale Atmosphäre.

The architecture gives the room an almost sacred atmosphere.

Aesthetic/Artistic description.

Der Autor versteht es, seinen Figuren Tiefe zu schenken.

The author knows how to give his characters depth.

Literary analysis.

Die Stille des Waldes schenkte ihm den ersehnten inneren Frieden.

The silence of the forest gave him the longed-for inner peace.

Evocative, descriptive language.

Man schenkte der Angelegenheit in der Presse kaum Beachtung.

The press paid hardly any attention to the matter.

Impersonal 'man' construction.

Das Leben schenkt uns nichts, wir müssen uns alles hart erarbeiten.

Life gives us nothing; we have to work hard for everything.

Philosophical maxim.

Sie schenkte der Welt ein Meisterwerk der Musik.

She gave the world a masterpiece of music.

Grand, historical scale.

Common Collocations

Aufmerksamkeit schenken

Vertrauen schenken

Glauben schenken

ein Lächeln schenken

zum Geburtstag schenken

zu Weihnachten schenken

Gehör schenken

ein Kind schenken

Freiheit schenken

Zeit schenken

Common Phrases

Das schenke ich dir.

— I'm giving this to you (for free/as a gift).

Hier, nimm den Apfel, das schenke ich dir.

Nichts zu danken, geschenkt!

— Don't mention it, it's a gift!

Danke für die Hilfe! - Geschenkt!

Sich gegenseitig etwas schenken.

— To give each other gifts.

Wir schenken uns gegenseitig Bücher.

Jemandem reinen Wein einschenken.

— To tell someone the plain, unvarnished truth.

Ich muss dir jetzt mal reinen Wein einschenken.

Das ist wie geschenkt.

— That's a bargain (almost free).

Nur 2 Euro? Das ist wie geschenkt!

Sich die Mühe schenken.

— To not bother with the effort.

Die Mühe kannst du dir schenken, er hört eh nicht zu.

Einem geschenkten Gaul...

— Short for the proverb about gift horses.

Na ja, einem geschenkten Gaul...

Herzlich geschenkt.

— Given from the heart (less common, but used).

Es ist zwar klein, aber herzlich geschenkt.

Jemandem Beachtung schenken.

— To pay attention to someone.

Niemand schenkte dem alten Mann Beachtung.

Ein Lächeln kostet nichts und ist doch viel geschenkt.

— A smile costs nothing but is a great gift.

Denk daran: Ein Lächeln ist viel geschenkt.

Often Confused With

schenken vs geben

Geben is general; schenken is specifically for gifts.

schenken vs schicken

Schicken means to send; sounds similar but very different meaning.

schenken vs einschenken

Specifically means to pour a liquid into a glass.

Idioms & Expressions

"Einem geschenkten Gaul schaut man nicht ins Maul."

— Don't criticize a gift, even if it's not perfect.

Das Auto ist alt, aber einem geschenkten Gaul schaut man nicht ins Maul.

proverb

"Jemandem reinen Wein einschenken."

— To tell the truth, even if it's unpleasant.

Endlich hat er ihr reinen Wein eingeschenkt.

colloquial

"Das kannst du dir schenken!"

— You can skip that / Don't bother.

Deine Entschuldigung kannst du dir schenken!

informal

"Geschenkt!"

— Forget about it / It doesn't matter / No problem.

Du schuldest mir noch 1 Euro. - Ach, geschenkt!

slang

"Jemandem Glauben schenken."

— To believe someone.

Man sollte seinen Versprechungen keinen Glauben schenken.

formal

"Jemandem Gehör schenken."

— To listen to someone formally.

Der Richter schenkte dem Angeklagten Gehör.

formal

"Sich nichts schenken."

— To fight hard; to not go easy on each other.

Die beiden Boxer schenkten sich nichts.

sport/colloquial

"Jemandem sein Herz schenken."

— To fall in love with someone / give them your heart.

Sie hat ihm ihr Herz geschenkt.

poetic

"Jemandem die Freiheit schenken."

— To liberate someone.

Der Herr schenkte dem Diener die Freiheit.

historical/formal

"Das ist geschenktes Geld."

— That's easy money / money obtained without effort.

Bei dem Job ist das geschenktes Geld.

colloquial

Easily Confused

schenken vs verschenken

Looks like schenken.

Verschenken usually means to give something away for free because you don't want it anymore, or to give it away generally.

Ich verschenke meine alten Möbel.

schenken vs beschenken

Same root.

Beschenken focuses on the person and takes an Accusative object. You don't usually name the gift in the same sentence structure.

Oma beschenkt alle Enkelkinder.

schenken vs spenden

Both involve giving for free.

Spenden is for charity, blood, or formal donations to organizations.

Er spendet für das Rote Kreuz.

schenken vs überreichen

Both mean to give.

Überreichen is very formal and ceremonial, like giving a trophy.

Die Urkunde wurde feierlich überreicht.

schenken vs belohnen

Both involve receiving something good.

Belohnen is a reward for a specific action or achievement, not just a gift.

Sie belohnte ihn für seine Hilfe.

Sentence Patterns

Ich schenke [Person-Dat] [Ding-Akk].

Ich schenke dir einen Apfel.

Was schenkst du [Person-Dat] zum [Anlass]?

Was schenkst du ihr zum Geburtstag?

Ich habe [Ding-Akk-Pron] [Person-Dat-Pron] geschenkt.

Ich habe es ihm geschenkt.

Das können wir uns schenken.

Die Diskussion können wir uns schenken.

Jemandem [Abstraktum] schenken.

Er schenkte ihr sein Vertrauen.

[Passiv] Mir wurde etwas geschenkt.

Mir wurde ein neuer Laptop geschenkt.

Jemandem Gehör/Glauben schenken.

Schenken Sie mir bitte Gehör!

Die Natur/Das Schicksal schenkt uns...

Das Schicksal schenkte ihnen einen neuen Anfang.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very common, especially in private life and during holidays.

Common Mistakes

Ich schenke für dich ein Buch. → Ich schenke dir ein Buch.
You don't need 'für'; the Dative case 'dir' already means 'to/for you'.
Er schenkt mich eine Rose. → Er schenkt mir eine Rose.
Use Dative 'mir', not Accusative 'mich' for the recipient.
Kannst du mir das Wasser schenken? → Kannst du mir das Wasser geben?
Unless the water is a wrapped birthday present, use 'geben'.
Ich habe ihn ein Geschenk geschenkt. → Ich habe ihm ein Geschenk geschenkt.
Recipient must be Dative ('ihm'), not Accusative ('ihn').
Wir schenken uns zu der Hochzeit. → Wir schenken uns etwas zur Hochzeit.
Use 'zur' (zu + der) for the occasion, and don't forget the object.

Tips

Master the Dative

Schenken is the perfect verb to practice Dative pronouns (mir, dir, ihm, ihr, uns, euch, ihnen).

Mitbringsel

In Germany, always 'schenk' a small item like flowers or chocolates when visiting a home for the first time.

Don't say 'Gift'

Remember: 'Gift' in German means poison. Use 'Geschenk' for a present.

The Horse Proverb

Learn 'Einem geschenkten Gaul...' to sound very German when discussing free things.

Pouring vs Gifting

Use 'einschenken' for drinks, 'schenken' for presents. They share the same root but have split meanings.

Skip it!

Use 'Das können wir uns schenken' when you want to suggest skipping an unnecessary task.

Occasions

Always use 'zu' + Dative for the occasion: zum Geburtstag, zur Hochzeit, zum Jubiläum.

Reciprocity

German gifting often involves reciprocity. If someone 'schenkt' you something, you usually 'schenk' something back later.

Abstract Gifting

Don't forget you can 'schenken' attention (Aufmerksamkeit) to show you are listening.

Sales Language

Watch out for 'Wir schenken Ihnen...' in ads—it usually means a discount, not a literal free gift without strings.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'SHank' of ham being 'SHenken' (gifted) to a hungry friend. Or remember: 'Schenken' starts with 'S' for 'Special' giving.

Visual Association

Imagine a colorful gift box with a big bow. Inside the box is the word 'SCHENKEN' glowing in bright letters.

Word Web

Geschenk Geburtstag Weihnachten Freude geben dir mir einschenken

Challenge

Try to use 'schenken' in three different ways today: one for a physical gift, one for 'attention', and one in the Perfekt tense.

Word Origin

Derived from Middle High German 'schenken' and Old High German 'scenken'. It is related to the English word 'shank' (in the sense of a slanted pipe or handle).

Original meaning: The original meaning was 'to cause to drink' or 'to pour out'. In ancient Germanic culture, serving a guest a drink was the primary act of hospitality and giving.

Germanic / Indo-European.

Cultural Context

Be careful with 'schenken' in professional contexts; small gifts are okay, but large ones can be seen as bribery (Bestechung).

English speakers often use 'give' for everything. In German, you must switch to 'schenken' for gifts to sound natural.

Goethe's poems often use 'schenken' for love. The song 'Schenk mir dein Herz' is a pop classic. The proverb 'Einem geschenkten Gaul...' is used daily.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Birthday

Alles Gute!
Was wünschst du dir?
Ich habe ein Geschenk für dich.
Soll ich es einpacken?

Christmas

Frohe Weihnachten!
Die Bescherung beginnt.
Was hat das Christkind gebracht?
Wir schenken uns dieses Jahr nichts.

Restaurant/Bar

Noch ein Glas, bitte.
Schenken Sie mir bitte nach.
Das geht aufs Haus (geschenkt).
Ein kühles Blondes ausschenken.

Romance

Ich schenke dir mein Herz.
Du schenkst mir so viel Freude.
Blumen zum Valentinstag.
Ein Ring als Zeichen.

Work/Formal

Aufmerksamkeit schenken.
Vertrauen ist wichtig.
Ein kleines Dankeschön.
Jemandem Glauben schenken.

Conversation Starters

"Was schenkst du deinen Eltern dieses Jahr zu Weihnachten?"

"Hast du schon mal ein richtig schlechtes Geschenk bekommen?"

"Schenken wir uns gegenseitig etwas zum Jahrestag?"

"Was war das schönste Geschenk, das dir jemals jemand geschenkt hat?"

"Sollten wir dem Lehrer zum Abschied etwas schenken?"

Journal Prompts

Beschreibe ein Geschenk, das du jemandem geschenkt hast und warum es besonders war.

Ist es wichtiger, etwas zu schenken oder etwas zu bekommen? Warum?

Welche Traditionen des Schenkens gibt es in deiner Kultur?

Was würdest du der Welt schenken, wenn du eine Superkraft hättest?

Schreibe über einen Moment, in dem dir jemand seine volle Aufmerksamkeit geschenkt hat.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, if it's a gift (like in a birthday card), you say 'Ich schenke ihm Geld'. If it's a payment, you use 'geben' or 'bezahlen'.

'Schenken' focuses on the gift and the recipient (Dat + Akk). 'Beschenken' focuses on the person receiving (Akk only). Example: 'Ich schenke dir (Dat) ein Buch (Akk)' vs 'Ich beschenke dich (Akk)'.

That would be 'zurückgeben'. 'Zurückschenken' is not commonly used.

No, you can 'schenken' attention, trust, or time (abstract things).

Because the person receiving the gift is the indirect object, which requires the Dative case in German.

It is grammatically correct but redundant. Usually, you just say 'Ich schenke dir etwas' or name the specific item.

It means the item is free, often as part of a 'buy one get one free' deal.

It is a weak (regular) verb: schenken - schenkte - geschenkt.

Historically yes, but in modern German, you use 'einschenken' for pouring drinks.

You can use 'das Schenken' or 'die Bescherung' (specifically for Christmas).