Capitalised nouns
A1 · Beginner · Basics
The rule
All nouns are written with a capital letter.
How it works
German capitalises all nouns, not only proper names. Because the rule is applied to the word class, it helps readers identify nouns quickly. Nouns formed from verbs or adjectives, such as das Essen (the meal) or der Alte (the old man), are also capitalised. The rule makes German texts easier to scan.
When to use it
Capitalise every noun, including words used as nouns such as das Essen (the food) or das Lernen (learning).
Use cases
- Writing the first word of sentences and all nouns, including the days of the week
- Turning verbs such as lernen (to learn) into the noun das Lernen (learning)
- Capitalising the formal Sie and Ihr in letters
Examples
- Der Hund schläft – The dog sleeps
- Das Lernen macht Spaß. – Learning is fun.
- Am Montag habe ich Zeit. – On Monday I have time.
- Können Sie mir helfen? – Can you help me? (formal)
Common mistake
Writing adjectives or verbs with a capital letter because they feel important.
Memory tip
If a word has an article in front of it, it is a noun and gets a capital letter.
Read the wider picture in our guide: German Articles: der, die, das Explained with Rules and Tips.