German Modal Verbs

German modal verbs are essential for expressing ability, necessity, permission, and desire. Understanding these verbs helps you communicate effectively in various situations, making them a key part of mastering the language in AP German.

1. Können (can, to be able to)

   • Indicates ability or capability to perform an action.
   • Used to express permission in informal contexts.
   • Conjugation changes based on the subject (ich kann, du kannst, er/sie/es kann).
   • Often used in questions to inquire about someone's ability.
   • Commonly paired with infinitives to describe what someone can do.

2. Müssen (must, to have to)

   • Expresses necessity or obligation to perform an action.
   • Indicates a strong requirement, often with no alternative.
   • Conjugation varies with the subject (ich muss, du musst, er/sie/es muss).
   • Frequently used in contexts involving rules or laws.
   • Can imply urgency when discussing time-sensitive actions.

3. Dürfen (may, to be allowed to)

   • Indicates permission or the right to do something.
   • Used to ask for or grant permission in formal and informal contexts.
   • Conjugation changes with the subject (ich darf, du darfst, er/sie/es darf).
   • Often used in questions to inquire about permission.
   • Can imply a moral or ethical consideration regarding actions.

4. Sollen (should, ought to)

   • Expresses a recommendation or suggestion about what one ought to do.
   • Indicates an expectation or duty, often from an external source.
   • Conjugation varies with the subject (ich soll, du sollst, er/sie/es soll).
   • Commonly used in advice-giving contexts.
   • Can imply a sense of responsibility or obligation.

5. Wollen (want to)

   • Indicates a desire or intention to perform an action.
   • Used to express personal wishes or goals.
   • Conjugation changes based on the subject (ich will, du willst, er/sie/es will).
   • Often used in future plans or aspirations.
   • Can convey determination or strong intent.

6. Mögen (to like)

   • Expresses liking or preference for something or someone.
   • Used to indicate enjoyment or fondness in various contexts.
   • Conjugation varies with the subject (ich mag, du magst, er/sie/es mag).
   • Can be used in both positive and negative constructions (e.g., "Ich mag das nicht" - I don't like that).
   • Often paired with nouns or infinitives to specify what is liked.