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sich kümmern

B1 verb #1,500 most common 14 min read

sich kümmern

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips sich kümmern in 30 Seconds

Explanation sich kümmern in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn the basics of German. The verb 'sich kümmern' might seem a bit complex because it is reflexive, but you can learn it as a fixed phrase for daily chores. At this stage, you mostly use it to talk about simple things you do at home. For example, 'Ich kümmere mich um den Hund' (I take care of the dog) or 'Ich kümmere mich um das Baby' (I take care of the baby). You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet; just remember that you always need 'mich' (if you are the subject) and 'um'. It is a very useful word for describing your daily routine or telling someone what you are doing right now. You will often hear it in simple questions like 'Wer kümmert sich um das Essen?' (Who is taking care of the food?). Even at A1, knowing this word helps you express that you are being helpful and responsible. It is one of the first reflexive verbs many students learn because it is so practical. Just think of it as 'I take care of...' and always put the 'mich' after the verb 'kümmere'. It's a great way to start practicing reflexive pronouns in a natural way. You can also use it to say you are taking care of yourself: 'Ich kümmere mich um mich.' (I take care of myself), though that is less common than taking care of something else. Focus on the pattern: Subject + Verb + Reflexive Pronoun + um + Object. This simple structure will carry you through many basic conversations. Don't worry if you forget the 'um' sometimes, but try to keep it in mind as it links the action to the object. By learning this early, you build a strong foundation for more complex reflexive verbs later on.

By the A2 level, you are expanding your ability to talk about past events and more varied situations. You will start using 'sich kümmern' in the past tense (Perfekt). The auxiliary verb is 'haben', and the past participle is 'gekümmert'. For example, 'Gestern habe ich mich um die Wäsche gekümmert' (Yesterday I took care of the laundry). This allows you to report on tasks you have completed. You will also use it more in the workplace or at school to talk about responsibilities. 'Ich kümmere mich um die Kopien' (I'll take care of the copies). At A2, you should also become familiar with the imperative form to give instructions: 'Kümmer dich bitte um die Gäste!' (Please take care of the guests!). You are starting to see how the reflexive pronoun changes depending on who you are talking to (mich, dich, uns, euch). It is also the time to learn the phrase 'Ich kümmere mich darum' (I'll take care of it). This is a very important 'short-cut' in German conversation. Instead of repeating the whole object, you just say 'darum'. This makes your German sound much more fluid and natural. You might also start to see the difference between 'sich kümmern um' and 'aufpassen auf'. While 'aufpassen' is more about watching something for a short time, 'sich kümmern' is about the whole task. At A2, you are building the confidence to use this verb in a variety of everyday contexts, from household chores to simple office tasks. It's a key verb for demonstrating that you can handle basic social and practical responsibilities in a German-speaking environment.

At the B1 level, 'sich kümmern' becomes a central part of your vocabulary for expressing responsibility, initiative, and social care. You are expected to use it correctly with various tenses and in subordinate clauses. For instance, 'Es ist wichtig, dass wir uns um die Umwelt kümmern' (It is important that we take care of the environment). You will also use it to discuss more abstract topics, like taking care of problems, finances, or your future. The grammar becomes more important here; you must be careful with the accusative case after 'um'. If you say 'Ich kümmere mich um den neuen Plan', you must recognize that 'der Plan' becomes 'den Plan'. B1 is also where you learn to use modal verbs with 'sich kümmern'. 'Du solltest dich mehr um deine Gesundheit kümmern' (You should take more care of your health). This level requires you to understand the nuance between 'sich kümmern um' and 'sorgen für'. You'll learn that 'sorgen für' is often about providing necessities, while 'sich kümmern um' is about the active process of looking after something. You will also encounter the verb in more professional contexts, such as handling customer complaints or managing projects. 'Wer kümmert sich um die Kundenanfragen?' (Who is taking care of the customer inquiries?). Being able to use this verb confidently shows that you can navigate professional and social situations where tasks need to be assigned and managed. It's a marker of moving from basic survival German to being a functional member of a German-speaking community. You should also be comfortable using the pronominal adverbs 'darum' and 'worum' in more complex sentence structures.

At the B2 level, you should have a firm grasp of 'sich kümmern' and start exploring its more formal and professional applications. You will use it in complex business discussions and formal writing. For example, in a cover letter, you might write: 'In meiner letzten Position habe ich mich um die Betreuung der Großkunden gekümmert' (In my last position, I took care of the management of major clients). At this level, you are also expected to use a wider range of synonyms to avoid repetition. You might choose 'betreuen', 'verwalten', or 'erledigen' depending on the specific context. You will also encounter 'sich kümmern' in more idiomatic or figurative ways. For instance, 'sich um Kopf und Kragen reden' (to talk oneself into deep trouble) uses a different sense of 'sich um etwas kümmern' (to worry about something to the point of risk). You will also understand the social and political implications of the word. In news reports, you might hear about how the government 'sich um die soziale Gerechtigkeit kümmern muss' (must take care of social justice). Your understanding of the reflexive nature of the verb should be second nature by now, allowing you to focus on the stylistic choices of when to use it versus its synonyms. You will also be able to handle the passive-like structures or the use of 'lassen' with 'sich kümmern', such as 'Ich lasse mich um meine Finanzen kümmern' (I have someone take care of my finances), which is a more advanced construction. B2 learners use the verb to express not just simple actions, but complex responsibilities and professional roles.

At the C1 level, you use 'sich kümmern' with total fluency and precision. You understand the subtle emotional and professional weights the verb carries. You can distinguish between the active care of 'sich kümmern' and the more detached 'bearbeiten' or 'verwalten'. In academic or high-level professional contexts, you might use the noun form 'die Kümmernis' (an old-fashioned word for grief or sorrow) or more likely 'die Betreuung' or 'die Fürsorge' as sophisticated alternatives to the action of the verb. You will also be able to use the verb in sophisticated rhetorical ways. For example, in a debate, you might say, 'Wir müssen uns nicht nur um die Symptome, sondern um die Ursachen des Problems kümmern' (We must take care of not just the symptoms, but the causes of the problem). You are also familiar with literary uses of the word and how it has evolved over time. Your use of the preposition 'um' and the reflexive pronoun is flawless, even in the most convoluted sentence structures involving multiple clauses. You can also use the verb to express irony or sarcasm, such as 'Kümmere dich um deinen eigenen Kram!' in a variety of social registers. At C1, the verb is no longer a 'vocabulary item' but a flexible tool you use to navigate the intricacies of German culture and professional life. You also recognize the word's presence in compound nouns and related expressions, and you can explain the difference between 'sich kümmern' and 'sich bemühen um' (to strive for/to go to trouble for), which is a common point of confusion at lower levels.

At the C2 level, your mastery of 'sich kümmern' is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You are aware of the historical etymology of the word, coming from the Old High German 'kummer' (sorrow, grief, or even rubble/debris), and how it shifted from a word about being burdened by sorrow to a word about active care and responsibility. This deep understanding allows you to appreciate the word in classical German literature, where it might carry a heavier, more somber tone than in modern daily speech. You can use the verb in any register, from the most informal slang to the highest academic or legal discourse. You are also expert at using the verb in the 'Zustandspassiv' or other complex grammatical constructions that are rare but possible. You can effortlessly switch between 'sich kümmern' and its most obscure synonyms like 'obliegen' (to be incumbent upon) or 'wahrnehmen' (to look after/exercise a right). In professional management, you might discuss 'Kümmerer-Strukturen' (structures of responsibility) within an organization. Your ability to use the verb to convey subtle shades of meaning—such as the difference between a duty, a passion, and a burden—is complete. You can write philosophical essays on the concept of 'Sorge' (care) in the Heideggerian sense and relate it back to the everyday use of 'sich kümmern'. At this level, the word is a thread in the vast tapestry of your German language skills, used with absolute precision, cultural awareness, and stylistic flair.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

sich kümmern in 30 Seconds

Sich kümmern is a reflexive verb meaning 'to take care of' or 'to look after'. It is essential for daily life and work.
It always requires the preposition 'um' followed by the accusative case. You must match the reflexive pronoun to the subject.
Use it for people (children, elderly), animals (pets), and tasks (emails, chores, problems). It shows you are taking responsibility.
Commonly heard in phrases like 'Ich kümmere mich darum' (I'll take care of it) or 'Kümmer dich um deinen Kram' (Mind your own business).

The German reflexive verb sich kümmern is one of the most versatile and essential expressions in the German language, particularly as you move into the B1 level of proficiency. At its core, it means to take care of, to look after, or to attend to something or someone. However, its application spans from the deeply personal—such as caring for a sick relative—to the purely administrative, like handling a technical issue at work. The verb is inherently reflexive, meaning the action is directed back toward the subject (the person doing the caring), and it is almost always paired with the preposition um followed by the accusative case. This structure is non-negotiable; you cannot simply 'kümmern' something; you must 'kümmern yourself about' something.

Personal Care: This involves looking after living beings, such as children, elderly parents, or pets. It implies a sense of responsibility and nurturing. For example, 'Ich kümmere mich um meine kleine Schwester' (I am taking care of my little sister).

Keine Sorge, ich werde mich um den Hund kümmern, während du im Urlaub bist.

Beyond personal care, sich kümmern is the go-to verb for taking responsibility for tasks or problems. In a professional setting, if a colleague asks who is handling a specific project, you might say, 'Ich kümmere mich darum' (I'll take care of it). This usage is incredibly common in offices and customer service environments. It signals that you are taking ownership of a situation. The verb conveys a proactive attitude. It is not just about observing a problem but actively working toward a solution or ensuring that a need is met. Whether it is watering the plants, organizing a party, or solving a software bug, sich kümmern covers the entire spectrum of 'dealing with' things.

Administrative Responsibility: This refers to managing tasks, paperwork, or logistics. It is less about emotional care and more about efficiency. Example: 'Der Manager kümmert sich um die Verträge' (The manager is taking care of the contracts).

Wer kümmert sich heute Abend um das Abendessen?

In social contexts, the verb can also mean to pay attention to someone or to make them feel welcome. If you are hosting a party, you 'kümmerst dich um deine Gäste' (take care of your guests). This means ensuring they have drinks, food, and someone to talk to. It is a very warm and positive verb in this context. Conversely, if someone says 'Kümmere dich um deinen eigenen Kram!' (Mind your own business!), it is used more sharply to tell someone to stop interfering in affairs that do not concern them. This versatility makes it a linguistic Swiss Army knife for German learners.

Social Attention: Ensuring that people feel included or attended to in a social setting. Example: 'Sie kümmert sich rührend um die neuen Mitarbeiter' (She takes touching care of the new employees).

Du solltest dich mehr um deine Gesundheit kümmern.

Wir haben uns gestern um alle Einkäufe gekümmert.

Könnten Sie sich bitte um dieses Problem kümmern?

Using sich kümmern um correctly requires attention to three main components: the reflexive pronoun, the preposition 'um', and the accusative object. Because it is a reflexive verb, the pronoun changes based on the subject: ich mich, du dich, er/sie/es sich, wir uns, ihr euch, sie/Sie sich. This is the first hurdle for many English speakers, as English often omits the reflexive part (we just say 'I take care of', not 'I take care of myself of'). In German, the reflexive pronoun is the direct object of the verb 'kümmern', while the thing being cared for is introduced by the prepositional phrase.

The Preposition 'um': The preposition 'um' always triggers the accusative case. This means if you are taking care of a masculine noun, the article changes (e.g., 'der Garten' becomes 'den Garten'). Example: 'Er kümmert sich um den Garten.'

Ich kümmere mich um meinen kranken Vater.

When you want to refer to a situation or a thing that was previously mentioned without repeating the noun, you use the pronominal adverb darum. This is a combination of 'da' (there/that) and 'um'. For instance, if someone asks, 'Wer gießt die Blumen?' (Who is watering the flowers?), you can reply, 'Ich kümmere mich darum.' Here, 'darum' stands in for 'um die Blumen'. This is one of the most common ways you will hear the verb used in daily conversation. It is quick, efficient, and sounds very natural. If you are asking a question about what someone is taking care of, you use the interrogative adverb worum. For example: 'Worum kümmerst du dich gerade?' (What are you taking care of right now?).

Using 'darum' and 'worum': These are essential for fluid conversation. 'Darum' replaces the 'um + noun' phrase, and 'worum' is used for questions. Example: 'Worum geht es?' vs 'Ich kümmere mich darum.'

Wir müssen uns um die Reservierung kümmern.

In subordinate clauses (sentences starting with 'weil', 'dass', 'wenn', etc.), the conjugated verb moves to the very end. This can be tricky because the reflexive pronoun usually stays near the subject, but the verb 'kümmert' or 'kümmern' migrates. For example: 'Es ist wichtig, dass du dich um deine Finanzen kümmerst' (It is important that you take care of your finances). Notice how 'dich' follows 'du', but 'kümmerst' is at the end. Mastering these word order shifts is key to reaching the B1 level. Additionally, when using the perfect tense, remember that 'kümmern' takes 'haben' as its auxiliary verb. 'Ich habe mich um alles gekümmert' (I have taken care of everything).

Word Order in Subordinate Clauses: The verb moves to the end. Example: 'Ich weiß nicht, ob er sich um den Müll gekümmert hat.' (I don't know if he took care of the trash.)

Hast du dich schon um die Anmeldung gekümmert?

Bitte kümmern Sie sich um diesen Kunden.

Er hat sich rührend um seine kranke Frau gekümmert.

In Germany, sich kümmern is a staple of everyday communication. You will hear it most frequently in domestic settings. Parents constantly tell their children to 'kümmer dich um dein Zimmer' (take care of your room/clean your room). It is also the standard way to discuss pet ownership or looking after neighbors' plants while they are away. If you are living in a shared apartment (WG), the phrase 'Wer kümmert sich diese Woche um den Putzplan?' (Who is taking care of the cleaning schedule this week?) is a common, if sometimes dreaded, question. It implies not just the physical act of cleaning, but the responsibility of ensuring the task is completed.

At Home and With Family: Used for chores, pets, and family members. It often carries a tone of responsibility or duty. Example: 'Ich muss mich um das Baby kümmern.'

Meine Nachbarin kümmert sich um meine Post, wenn ich weg bin.

The workplace is another environment where this verb is indispensable. In German business culture, clarity regarding responsibility is highly valued. When a task is assigned, saying 'Ich kümmere mich darum' is a definitive statement of commitment. It tells your boss or colleagues that the matter is now in your hands and they no longer need to worry about it. You will also hear it in customer service. If you call a hotline with a problem, the agent might say, 'Ich kümmere mich sofort um Ihr Anliegen' (I will take care of your request immediately). This sounds professional and reassuring. It is much more common than the more formal 'bearbeiten' (to process) in spoken office German.

In the Office: Used to claim responsibility for tasks, emails, or client issues. Example: 'Der IT-Support kümmert sich um den Server.'

Könnten Sie sich bitte um die neuen Rechnungen kümmern?

Finally, you will encounter this verb in social and community contexts. Volunteers 'kümmern sich um Geflüchtete' (take care of refugees) or 'kümmern sich um die Umwelt' (take care of the environment). It expresses a sense of civic duty and social engagement. In a more casual social setting, if you are at a restaurant and the bill arrives, one person might say, 'Ich kümmere mich um die Rechnung' (I'll take care of the bill/I'll pay). This is a polite way to offer to pay for everyone. The verb is so deeply embedded in the German way of organizing life and social interactions that you will likely hear it several times a day if you are in a German-speaking country.

Social and Civic Duty: Used for volunteering, social work, or paying for others. Example: 'Wir kümmern uns um den Tierschutz.'

Wer kümmert sich in diesem Verein um die Finanzen?

Ich kümmere mich morgen um die Reparatur des Fahrrads.

Sie kümmert sich immer sehr gut um ihre Gäste.

The most frequent mistake English speakers make with sich kümmern is forgetting the reflexive pronoun. In English, 'to take care' does not require a reflexive pronoun (you don't say 'I take care myself of the dog'). However, in German, the verb is strictly reflexive. Saying 'Ich kümmere um den Hund' is grammatically incorrect and sounds very broken to a native speaker. You must include the 'mich', 'dich', 'sich', etc. This reflexive pronoun acts as the direct object of the verb, while the 'um' phrase provides the context of what is being cared for. It is helpful to memorize the verb as a single unit: 'sich kümmern um'.

Missing Reflexive Pronoun: Incorrect: 'Er kümmert um das Kind.' Correct: 'Er kümmert sich um das Kind.' Always match the pronoun to the subject.

Du musst dich um deine eigenen Probleme kümmern.

Another common error is using the wrong preposition. English speakers often want to use 'für' (for) because they translate 'care for' literally. While 'sorgen für' is a valid German expression that also means 'to care for', 'sich kümmern' specifically requires 'um'. Saying 'Ich kümmere mich für das Projekt' is wrong. If you use 'für', you must use the verb 'sorgen' (e.g., 'Ich sorge für das Projekt'). While the meanings are similar, 'sorgen für' often implies providing the means or necessities (like providing money or food), whereas 'sich kümmern um' implies the active management or looking after of the thing or person.

Wrong Preposition: Incorrect: 'Ich kümmere mich für die Blumen.' Correct: 'Ich kümmere mich um die Blumen.' Remember: Kümmern + Um.

Wir kümmern uns um den (Accusative) neuen Mitarbeiter.

A more subtle mistake involves the placement of the reflexive pronoun in complex sentences. In German, the reflexive pronoun usually wants to be as close to the subject as possible. In a question like 'Wann kümmerst du dich um die Wäsche?', the 'dich' follows the subject 'du'. However, in a sentence with a modal verb like 'Kannst du dich darum kümmern?', the 'dich' still follows the subject, but the main verb 'kümmern' moves to the end. Beginners often get confused and try to put the reflexive pronoun at the end with the verb, which is incorrect. Practice the rhythm of the sentence: Subject - Reflexive Pronoun - (other stuff) - Verb.

Reflexive Pronoun Placement: Incorrect: 'Ich muss um den Hund mich kümmern.' Correct: 'Ich muss mich um den Hund kümmern.' The pronoun stays near the subject.

Warum hast du dich nicht um das Problem gekümmert?

Ich werde mich persönlich um Ihre Beschwerde kümmern.

Kümmerst du dich bitte um die Katze?

While sich kümmern um is a fantastic all-purpose verb, German offers several alternatives that can be more precise depending on the context. Understanding these nuances will help you sound more like a native speaker. The most common alternative is sorgen für. While 'sich kümmern um' focuses on the act of looking after or managing, 'sorgen für' often emphasizes providing the necessary resources or ensuring a certain state of affairs. For example, 'Er sorgt für seine Familie' usually means he provides for them financially, whereas 'Er kümmert sich um seine Familie' means he spends time with them and looks after their daily needs.

sorgen für vs. sich kümmern um: 'Sorgen für' is about providing or ensuring (e.g., providing money, ensuring peace). 'Sich kümmern um' is about active management and personal attention.

Der Staat muss für Sicherheit sorgen.

Another important synonym is betreuen. This verb is specifically used in professional or semi-professional contexts of care, such as a teacher looking after students, a nurse looking after patients, or an account manager looking after clients. It sounds more formal and structured than 'sich kümmern'. If you are writing a CV, you would say 'Ich habe Kunden betreut' (I managed/looked after clients) rather than 'Ich habe mich um Kunden gekümmert'. Similarly, pflegen is used for physical care, especially in a medical or beauty context. You 'pflegen' a wound, a sick person, or even your skin. It implies a high level of physical attention and maintenance.

betreuen and pflegen: 'Betreuen' is professional management/supervision. 'Pflegen' is physical or medical care and maintenance. Example: 'Die Krankenschwester pflegt den Patienten.'

Ich werde diese E-Mail sofort erledigen.

If you want to express that you are keeping an eye on something to make sure nothing goes wrong, you can use aufpassen auf. This is very common when asking someone to watch your luggage for a moment or to keep an eye on a child at the playground. It is more about vigilance than active management. Finally, verwalten is used for the administration of things like properties, data, or money. It is a very 'dry' and bureaucratic verb. Choosing the right word depends on whether you are providing (sorgen für), managing (sich kümmern um), supervising (betreuen), maintaining (pflegen), or watching (aufpassen auf).

aufpassen auf and verwalten: 'Aufpassen auf' means to watch or keep an eye on. 'Verwalten' means to administer or manage (bureaucratically). Example: 'Pass bitte auf meine Tasche auf!'

Er verwaltet das Erbe seiner Tante.

Könntest du kurz auf mein Fahrrad aufpassen?

Sie betreut die Praktikanten in unserer Abteilung.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"Wir werden uns umgehend um Ihr Anliegen kümmern."

Neutral

"Ich kümmere mich um den Abwasch."

Informal

"Ich kümmere mich darum, kein Stress!"

Child friendly

"Kümmerst du dich bitte um dein Spielzeug?"

Slang

"Ich kümmere mich einen Scheiß darum."

Fun Fact

The word 'Kummer' (sorrow) and 'Kümmerer' (caretaker) come from the same root. In modern German, a 'Kümmerer' is a very positive term for someone who gets things done and looks after people.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /zɪç ˈkʏmɐn/

US /zɪç ˈkʏmərn/

The stress is on the first syllable of the verb: KÜM-mern.

Rhymes With

trümmern wimmern schimmern hämmern dämmern jammern klammern nummern

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 's' as unvoiced (like 'sink'). It should be voiced (like 'zinc').
Pronouncing the 'ch' like a 'k' or 'sh'. It should be the soft German 'ch'.
Using a long 'ü' sound. It is a short vowel.
Forgetting the reflexive pronoun 'sich' in the pronunciation sequence.
Misplacing the stress on the second syllable.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in text once you know the reflexive pattern.

Writing 4/5

Difficult because you must remember the reflexive pronoun, the preposition 'um', and the accusative case.

Speaking 3/5

Requires practice to get the word order right, especially with 'darum'.

Listening 2/5

Very common, so you will hear it often and get used to it quickly.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

sich (reflexive pronoun) um (preposition) die Sorge (worry) helfen (to help) machen (to do/make)

Learn Next

sorgen für (to provide for) aufpassen auf (to watch out for) betreuen (to manage/supervise) erledigen (to finish a task) verwalten (to administer)

Advanced

obliegen (to be one's duty) wahrnehmen (to exercise/look after) die Fürsorge (welfare/care) die Aufsichtspflicht (duty of supervision)

Grammar to Know

Reflexive Verbs

Ich wasche mich. Ich kümmere mich.

Prepositions with Accusative

Um den Tisch. Um mich. Um das Kind.

Pronominal Adverbs

Darum, worum, hiermit, davon.

Word Order in Subordinate Clauses

..., weil ich mich um den Hund kümmere.

Modal Verbs and Infinitives

Ich will mich darum kümmern.

Examples by Level

Ich kümmere mich um den Hund.

I take care of the dog.

Subject 'Ich' uses reflexive pronoun 'mich'.

Wer kümmert sich um das Baby?

Who is taking care of the baby?

Question word 'Wer' acts as the subject.

Wir kümmern uns um die Blumen.

We are taking care of the flowers.

Subject 'Wir' uses reflexive pronoun 'uns'.

Kümmert ihr euch um das Essen?

Are you (plural) taking care of the food?

Subject 'ihr' uses reflexive pronoun 'euch'.

Er kümmert sich um seine Katze.

He takes care of his cat.

Subject 'Er' uses reflexive pronoun 'sich'.

Ich kümmere mich um meine Hausaufgaben.

I am taking care of my homework.

Reflexive verb used for a simple task.

Sie kümmert sich um das Haus.

She takes care of the house.

Subject 'Sie' (she) uses reflexive pronoun 'sich'.

Kümmerst du dich um das Ticket?

Are you taking care of the ticket?

Subject 'du' uses reflexive pronoun 'dich'.

Ich habe mich gestern um die Post gekümmert.

I took care of the mail yesterday.

Perfect tense: 'habe' + 'mich' + 'gekümmert'.

Können Sie sich bitte um diesen Gast kümmern?

Could you please take care of this guest?

Formal 'Sie' with modal verb 'können'.

Mein Bruder kümmert sich immer um das Auto.

My brother always takes care of the car.

Use of the adverb 'immer' (always).

Wir müssen uns um die Getränke kümmern.

We have to take care of the drinks.

Modal verb 'müssen' pushes 'kümmern' to the end.

Hat er sich um die Reservierung gekümmert?

Did he take care of the reservation?

Perfect tense question.

Ich kümmere mich darum, wenn ich Zeit habe.

I'll take care of it when I have time.

Use of the pronominal adverb 'darum'.

Kümmer dich nicht um ihn!

Don't worry about him! / Don't mind him!

Imperative form (informal singular).

Sie kümmert sich rührend um ihre Oma.

She takes touching care of her grandma.

Adverb 'rührend' adds emotional depth.

Ich werde mich persönlich um Ihr Problem kümmern.

I will personally take care of your problem.

Future tense with 'werden'.

Es ist wichtig, dass man sich um seine Gesundheit kümmert.

It is important that one takes care of one's health.

Subordinate clause with 'dass'.

Worum musst du dich heute noch kümmern?

What else do you have to take care of today?

Interrogative adverb 'worum'.

Sie hat sich jahrelang um den Garten gekümmert.

She took care of the garden for years.

Perfect tense with time indication 'jahrelang'.

Könntest du dich bitte um die Anmeldung kümmern?

Could you please take care of the registration?

Konjunktiv II for a polite request.

Ich habe niemanden, der sich um meine Katzen kümmert.

I have no one to take care of my cats.

Relative clause with 'der'.

Wir sollten uns mehr um den Umweltschutz kümmern.

We should take more care of environmental protection.

Modal verb 'sollten' (should).

Er kümmert sich kaum um seine Finanzen.

He hardly takes care of his finances.

Adverb 'kaum' (hardly/barely).

In meiner neuen Rolle kümmere ich mich um das Projektmanagement.

In my new role, I take care of project management.

Professional context.

Wer kümmert sich eigentlich um die Einhaltung der Regeln?

Who is actually taking care of the compliance with the rules?

Abstract object 'Einhaltung der Regeln'.

Ich kümmere mich darum, dass alle Teilnehmer informiert werden.

I'll take care that all participants are informed.

Darum + dass-clause.

Man muss sich rechtzeitig um ein Visum kümmern.

One must take care of a visa in good time.

Adverb 'rechtzeitig' (in time).

Sie kümmert sich hingebungsvoll um die Pflegebedürftigen.

She takes care of those in need of care with great devotion.

Adverb 'hingebungsvoll' (devotedly).

Warum hast du dich nicht früher darum gekümmert?

Why didn't you take care of it earlier?

Perfect tense question with 'darum'.

Die Regierung verspricht, sich um die Arbeitslosigkeit zu kümmern.

The government promises to take care of unemployment.

Infinitive construction with 'zu'.

Ich kümmere mich um die Organisation der gesamten Konferenz.

I am taking care of the organization of the entire conference.

Genitive attribute 'der gesamten Konferenz'.

Es obliegt dem Vorstand, sich um die strategische Ausrichtung zu kümmern.

It is the board's responsibility to take care of the strategic direction.

Formal verb 'obliegen' paired with 'sich kümmern'.

Wir müssen uns dringend um die Behebung dieser Sicherheitslücke kümmern.

We urgently need to take care of fixing this security vulnerability.

Technical/Professional context.

Sie kümmert sich unermüdlich um die Belange der Minderheiten.

She takes care of the interests of minorities tirelessly.

Sophisticated vocabulary: 'unermüdlich', 'Belange'.

Wer kümmert sich in Krisenzeiten um den gesellschaftlichen Zusammenhalt?

Who takes care of social cohesion in times of crisis?

Sociological/Philosophical context.

Ich habe mich bereits um die Einholung der notwendigen Genehmigungen gekümmert.

I have already taken care of obtaining the necessary permits.

Nominalization: 'Einholung der Genehmigungen'.

Es ist traurig, wie wenig sich manche Menschen um ihre Mitmenschen kümmern.

It is sad how little some people care about their fellow human beings.

Ethical/Social commentary.

Kümmern Sie sich bitte vorrangig um die dringenden Fälle.

Please take care of the urgent cases as a priority.

Adverb 'vorrangig' (primarily/as a priority).

Er kümmert sich akribisch um jedes noch so kleine Detail.

He takes care of every single detail meticulously.

Adverb 'akribisch' (meticulous).

Die Philosophie muss sich um die existenziellen Fragen des Seins kümmern.

Philosophy must concern itself with the existential questions of being.

Abstract philosophical usage.

In seinem Spätwerk kümmert sich der Autor verstärkt um metaphysische Themen.

In his late work, the author increasingly concerns himself with metaphysical themes.

Literary analysis context.

Es zeugt von wahrer Größe, sich um die Schwächsten der Gesellschaft zu kümmern.

It shows true greatness to take care of the weakest in society.

High-level moral statement.

Der Staat darf sich nicht nur um das Wirtschaftswachstum kümmern.

The state must not only take care of economic growth.

Political/Economic critique.

Man sollte sich um die Bewahrung des kulturellen Erbes kümmern.

One should take care of the preservation of cultural heritage.

Cultural/Academic context.

Sie kümmert sich mit einer fast schon manischen Präzision um ihre Forschung.

She takes care of her research with an almost manic precision.

Psychological/Descriptive nuance.

Wer kümmert sich um die Verhältnismäßigkeit der getroffenen Maßnahmen?

Who takes care of the proportionality of the measures taken?

Legal/Administrative terminology.

Er kümmert sich zeitlebens um die Aufarbeitung der Familiengeschichte.

He spends his whole life taking care of the processing of his family history.

Adverb 'zeitlebens' (lifelong).

Common Collocations

sich um die Kinder kümmern

sich um das Problem kümmern

sich um die Finanzen kümmern

sich um den Haushalt kümmern

sich um die Gäste kümmern

sich um die Details kümmern

sich um die Umwelt kümmern

sich um die Kranken kümmern

sich um die Zukunft kümmern

sich um alles kümmern

Common Phrases

Ich kümmere mich darum.

— I'll take care of it. A standard response to a request.

Kannst du den Müll rausbringen? - Ja, ich kümmere mich darum.

Kümmer dich um deinen eigenen Kram!

— Mind your own business! A rude way to tell someone to stop interfering.

Was machst du da? - Kümmer dich um deinen eigenen Kram!

Wer kümmert sich?

— Who is taking care of it? Used to assign responsibility.

Das Telefon klingelt. Wer kümmert sich?

Sich rührend um jemanden kümmern.

— To take touching or very sweet care of someone.

Er kümmert sich rührend um seine kranke Mutter.

Sich einen Dreck um etwas kümmern.

— To not give a damn about something. Very informal/slang.

Er kümmert sich einen Dreck um die Regeln.

Sich liebevoll um jemanden kümmern.

— To take loving care of someone.

Die Eltern kümmern sich liebevoll um ihre Kinder.

Sich intensiv um etwas kümmern.

— To take intensive care of something or focus deeply on it.

Wir müssen uns intensiv um dieses Projekt kümmern.

Sich persönlich um etwas kümmern.

— To take personal care of something (rather than delegating).

Der Chef kümmert sich persönlich um diese Beschwerde.

Sich wenig um etwas kümmern.

— To care little about something or neglect it.

Sie kümmert sich wenig um ihre Gesundheit.

Sich rechtzeitig kümmern.

— To take care of something in good time/early enough.

Du musst dich rechtzeitig um die Anmeldung kümmern.

Often Confused With

sich kümmern vs sorgen für

Sorgen für is about providing (money, food), while sich kümmern um is about managing/looking after.

sich kümmern vs aufpassen auf

Aufpassen is short-term watching (watch my bag), while sich kümmern is a broader responsibility.

sich kümmern vs sich bekümmern

Sich bekümmern is archaic and means to be sad or worried, not to take action.

Idioms & Expressions

"Sich um Kopf und Kragen reden"

— To talk oneself into a lot of trouble (literally: care about head and collar).

In dem Interview hat er sich um Kopf und Kragen geredet.

Informal

"Sich um ungelegte Eier kümmern"

— To worry about things that haven't happened yet (literally: care about unlaid eggs).

Wir sollten uns nicht um ungelegte Eier kümmern.

Informal

"Sich einen feuchten Kehricht um etwas kümmern"

— To not care at all about something (literally: care a damp sweep of dust).

Er kümmert sich einen feuchten Kehricht um meine Meinung.

Colloquial

"Sich um die goldene Ananas kümmern"

— To care about something pointless or a trivial prize.

In diesem Spiel geht es nur um die goldene Ananas.

Informal

"Sich um seinen eigenen Mist kümmern"

— To mind one's own business (literally: care about one's own manure).

Kümmer dich um deinen eigenen Mist!

Slang/Rude

"Sich rührend kümmern"

— To care for someone in a way that moves others emotionally.

Sie kümmert sich rührend um die Waisenkinder.

Neutral

"Sich um Haus und Hof kümmern"

— To take care of everything one owns (literally: house and yard).

Nach dem Tod seines Vaters musste er sich um Haus und Hof kümmern.

Neutral

"Sich um Gott und die Welt kümmern"

— To care about everything and everyone (often used for someone who talks a lot).

Sie kümmert sich um Gott und die Welt, aber nicht um sich selbst.

Informal

"Sich um die Belange kümmern"

— To take care of the interests or concerns of a group.

Der Betriebsrat kümmert sich um die Belange der Mitarbeiter.

Formal

"Sich um die Details kümmern"

— To be the person who handles the small, specific parts of a plan.

Ich plane das Event, und du kümmerst dich um die Details.

Neutral

Easily Confused

sich kümmern vs sorgen für

Both translate to 'care for' in English.

Sorgen für implies providing necessities or ensuring a state. Sich kümmern um implies active management or looking after.

Der Vater sorgt für die Familie (money). Der Vater kümmert sich um die Kinder (time/care).

sich kümmern vs betreuen

Both mean to look after.

Betreuen is more professional or formal (supervising students or clients). Sich kümmern is more general.

Die Lehrerin betreut die Klasse.

sich kümmern vs pflegen

Both involve care.

Pflegen is specifically for physical, medical, or maintenance care (nursing, gardening).

Er pflegt seine Haut.

sich kümmern vs aufpassen auf

Both mean to watch/look after.

Aufpassen is about vigilance and short-term monitoring. Sich kümmern is about responsibility.

Pass auf die Kinder auf (don't let them fall).

sich kümmern vs erledigen

Both can mean 'to handle' a task.

Erledigen means to finish a specific task. Sich kümmern um means to take responsibility for it.

Ich habe die Hausaufgaben erledigt.

Sentence Patterns

Ich kümmere mich um [Noun].

Ich kümmere mich um die Katze.

Ich habe mich um [Noun] gekümmert.

Ich habe mich um das Auto gekümmert.

Ich muss mich um [Noun] kümmern.

Ich muss mich um meine Finanzen kümmern.

Ich kümmere mich darum, dass [Clause].

Ich kümmere mich darum, dass wir pünktlich sind.

Wer kümmert sich um die [Abstract Noun]?

Wer kümmert sich um die Organisation?

Es ist unerlässlich, sich um [Noun] zu kümmern.

Es ist unerlässlich, sich um die Details zu kümmern.

Sich rührend/akribisch um [Noun] kümmern.

Er kümmert sich akribisch um seine Forschung.

Sich zeitlebens um [Noun] kümmern.

Sie kümmert sich zeitlebens um das Erbe ihres Vaters.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very High. It is one of the top 500 most used verbs in German.

Common Mistakes

Ich kümmere um den Hund. → Ich kümmere mich um den Hund.
You forgot the reflexive pronoun 'mich'. In German, you must 'care yourself' about the dog.
Er kümmert sich für das Baby. → Er kümmert sich um das Baby.
You used the wrong preposition. 'Kümmern' always requires 'um', never 'für'.
Ich kümmere mich um dem Garten. → Ich kümmere mich um den Garten.
You used the dative case. The preposition 'um' always requires the accusative case.
Ich muss um das Problem mich kümmern. → Ich muss mich um das Problem kümmern.
The reflexive pronoun should come right after the subject or the conjugated verb, not at the end.
Wofür kümmerst du dich? → Worum kümmerst du dich?
Since the verb uses 'um', the question word must be 'worum', not 'wofür'.

Tips

Remember the Reflexive

Always pair the verb with its reflexive pronoun. Think of it as 'to care-self about'. If you leave out 'mich/dich/sich', the sentence feels incomplete to Germans.

The 'Um' Connection

Memorize 'sich kümmern' and 'um' as a single inseparable unit. Never use 'für' or any other preposition with this verb.

Use 'Darum' Often

In conversation, 'Ich kümmere mich darum' is your best friend. It shows you are helpful and avoids the need to repeat long nouns.

Professional Proactivity

Use this verb in meetings to claim responsibility. It sounds much more energetic than just saying 'I will do that'.

Social Responsibility

Germans value 'Kümmern'. Whether it's the environment or your neighbors, using this verb shows you understand German social values.

Accusative Alert

Always double-check your articles after 'um'. Remember: 'um den' (masculine), 'um die' (feminine), 'um das' (neuter).

Identify the Subject

When you hear 'kümmert', listen for the pronoun immediately after it to know who is taking the responsibility.

Mind Your Business

Learn 'Kümmer dich um deinen eigenen Kram' but use it sparingly! It's a strong way to set boundaries.

Visual Umbrella

Visualize an umbrella (UM) protecting someone. That's what you are doing when you 'kümmern' yourself 'UM' them.

B1 Milestone

Mastering this verb is a key milestone for B1. It moves you from simple descriptions to expressing complex social interactions.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Caretaker' who is 'Keen' to 'Manage' things. K-M (Kümmern). Also, remember: 'I take care of MYSELF (mich) ABOUT (um) the dog.'

Visual Association

Imagine a person holding a large umbrella (UM) over a small child or a plant to protect it. The umbrella is the 'UM' that you always need.

Word Web

sich kümmern um der Hund die Kinder das Problem die Arbeit die Wäsche die Zukunft die Gäste

Challenge

Try to use 'sich kümmern um' three times today: once for a person, once for a task, and once using the word 'darum'.

Word Origin

The verb 'kümmern' is derived from the Middle High German 'kümern' and the Old High German 'kummer'. Originally, 'Kummer' meant rubble, debris, or refuse, and later evolved to mean a burden, sorrow, or grief.

Original meaning: To be burdened by sorrow or to grieve. The shift to 'taking care of' happened as the focus moved from the feeling of worry to the action taken because of that worry.

Germanic

Cultural Context

Be careful when telling someone 'Kümmer dich um deinen eigenen Kram' as it is quite aggressive. In professional settings, always use 'darum' to sound efficient.

English speakers often confuse 'sich kümmern' with 'sich sorgen' (to worry). While related, 'kümmern' is much more active and task-oriented.

The phrase 'Wir kümmern uns' is often used in corporate branding in Germany. In the movie 'Good Bye, Lenin!', the protagonist 'kümmert sich' extensively about his mother's health and her perception of reality. German politicians often use the 'Kümmerer-Image' to appear approachable and helpful.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At Home

Ich kümmere mich um die Wäsche.
Wer kümmert sich um den Hund?
Kümmer dich um dein Zimmer!
Wir kümmern uns um das Abendessen.

At Work

Ich kümmere mich um die E-Mails.
Wer kümmert sich um dieses Projekt?
Ich werde mich darum kümmern.
Können Sie sich um den Kunden kümmern?

Socializing

Ich kümmere mich um die Getränke.
Sie kümmert sich um ihre Gäste.
Kümmer dich nicht um ihn.
Ich kümmere mich um die Rechnung.

Health

Du musst dich um deine Gesundheit kümmern.
Sie kümmert sich um ihren kranken Mann.
Ich kümmere mich um einen Termin beim Arzt.
Wir kümmern uns um die Pflege.

Environment/Society

Wir müssen uns um die Umwelt kümmern.
Die Stadt kümmert sich um die Parks.
Wer kümmert sich um die Armen?
Sich um die Zukunft kümmern.

Conversation Starters

"Wer kümmert sich bei euch zu Hause um den Garten?"

"Worum musst du dich diese Woche unbedingt kümmern?"

"Hast du dich schon um die Urlaubsplanung gekümmert?"

"Wer kümmert sich in deiner Firma um die neuen Mitarbeiter?"

"Findest du, dass sich der Staat genug um die Bildung kümmert?"

Journal Prompts

Schreibe darüber, wie du dich um deine eigene Gesundheit kümmerst. Was machst du jeden Tag?

Wer hat sich in deiner Kindheit am meisten um dich gekümmert? Beschreibe diese Person.

Welche Aufgaben musst du heute erledigen? Worum kümmerst du dich zuerst?

Ist es wichtig, dass wir uns um die Probleme anderer Menschen kümmern? Warum oder warum nicht?

Wie kümmerst du dich um deine Deutschkenntnisse? Was ist dein Lernplan?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, in modern German, 'kümmern' is always used reflexively when it means 'to take care of'. You must always include the reflexive pronoun (mich, dich, sich, etc.) that matches the subject. Forgetting it is a common mistake for English speakers. For example, 'Ich kümmere mich' is correct, but 'Ich kümmere' is not.

You should always use the preposition 'um'. This is a fixed combination. Using other prepositions like 'für' or 'an' is incorrect. For example, you say 'Ich kümmere mich um den Hund'. This 'um' always triggers the accusative case for the following noun.

'Sich kümmern um' usually refers to the active act of looking after or managing something or someone. 'Sorgen für' often means to provide the necessary resources or to ensure a certain condition is met. For instance, 'sorgen für' might mean providing financial support, while 'sich kümmern um' means spending time and doing the work.

The most common and natural way to say this is 'Ich kümmere mich darum'. The word 'darum' is a pronominal adverb that replaces 'um + it/that'. It is used constantly in both casual and professional German to accept a task or responsibility.

Absolutely. It is very common in the workplace. You can use it for emails, projects, clients, or technical problems. For example: 'Ich kümmere mich um die Präsentation'. It sounds proactive and responsible. In very formal writing, you might use 'betreuen' or 'bearbeiten', but 'sich kümmern' is perfect for spoken office German.

The preposition 'um' always takes the accusative case. Therefore, the object you are taking care of must be in the accusative. For masculine nouns, the article changes from 'der' to 'den'. For example: 'Ich kümmere mich um den (accusative) Garten'.

This is a common idiomatic expression that means 'Mind your own business'. It is quite informal and can be perceived as rude or aggressive depending on the tone. 'Kram' is a casual word for 'stuff' or 'affairs'. It's a way of telling someone to stop interfering in your business.

In the Perfekt (the most common past tense in speaking), it uses 'haben'. The past participle is 'gekümmert'. So you say: 'Ich habe mich gekümmert'. In the Präteritum (mostly used in writing), it is 'ich kümmerte mich', 'du kümmertest dich', etc. It is a regular verb, so it follows the standard patterns.

In modern German, not really. That would be 'sich Sorgen machen'. However, the related verb 'bekümmern' (which is rare/archaic) or the adjective 'bekümmert' can mean worried or sad. Usually, 'sich kümmern' implies taking action rather than just feeling an emotion.

A 'Kümmerer' is a noun derived from the verb. It refers to a person who takes care of things, often someone who is particularly helpful, reliable, and proactive. In a company or a community, a 'Kümmerer' is the person everyone goes to when they need something fixed or organized.