Prepositions with dual case in figurative use
C1 · Advanced · Mastery
The rule
in Betracht, an Bedeutung gewinnen.
How it works
Some prepositions with two cases change case depending on their figurative meaning. Fixed phrases such as in Betracht kommen (to be considered), an Bedeutung gewinnen (to gain importance) and in Kauf nehmen (to accept) keep their own case, which is not predictable from the literal meaning. Learn these phrases whole rather than trying to derive the case.
When to use it
Use fixed phrases with prepositions in figurative senses: in Betracht kommen (to be considered), an Bedeutung gewinnen (to gain significance).
Use cases
- Describing a choice that is considered: Diese Option kommt in Betracht
- Describing growing importance: Die Frage gewinnt an Bedeutung
- Describing acceptance of a drawback: Wir nehmen die Verspätung in Kauf
Examples
- an Bedeutung gewinnen – to gain importance
- Der Plan kommt für uns nicht infrage. – The plan is out of the question for us.
- Das Projekt gerät in Vergessenheit. – The project is falling into oblivion.
- Sie stößt auf große Schwierigkeiten. – She runs into major difficulties.
Common mistake
Choosing the case by literal meaning; figurative phrases often have their own case.
Memory tip
Learn these phrases whole, with their case, rather than working out the case each time.