Accusative case
A1 · Beginner · Basics
The rule
Only masculine changes: der → den, ein → einen.
How it works
The accusative is the case of the direct object, the thing or person that receives the action of the verb. Only the masculine article changes: der becomes den and ein becomes einen. Feminine, neuter and plural articles stay the same as in the nominative. Learning this small change early helps you spot objects in sentences quickly.
When to use it
Use the accusative for the direct object, which is the person or thing directly affected by the verb.
Use cases
- Naming the object of a verb: Ich kaufe einen Mantel
- Describing what you want or need: Ich brauche den Schlüssel
- Using prepositions such as für and ohne
Examples
- Ich sehe den Mann – I see the man
- Sie liest den Brief. – She reads the letter.
- Wir besuchen die Oma. – We visit grandma.
- Er hat ein Auto gekauft. – He bought a car.
Common mistake
Changing feminine, neuter or plural articles, which do not change in the accusative. Only der becomes den and ein becomes einen.
Memory tip
Ask "Who or what is being X?" If the answer is masculine, change der to den and ein to einen.
Read the wider picture in our guide: German Cases Explained: Nominative, Accusative, Dative and Genitive.