Chapter 3: The Noun Phrase: Determiners and Pronouns; 3.3, 3.4

Question 1

Can articles be used the same way in German as they are in English?

Answer 1

In general yes, but there are number of differences, with usage being affected by context and style.

Question 2

Will the definite article be used before an abstract noun?

Define Abstract Noun.

Give two examples of the the above in a sentence.

Answer 2

Yes.

Abstract Nouns are intangible nouns.

1. Die Demokratie is in einer Kriese.
2. Sie glaubt an das Leben nach dem Tod.

Question 3

Give two examples of infinitives used as nouns

Answer 3

Das Drachfliegen

Das Fotografieren

Question 4

Is the definite article used before infinitives used as Nouns?

Answer 4

Often yes, but presumably not always.

Question 5

What is the meaning of a word being in the ‘inflected’ form?

Answer 5

It has a case ending. e.g. Russischen.

Question 6

Translate the following:

Democracy is in a state of crisis.

Answer 6

Die Demokratie is in einer Krise.

Question 7

Translate the following:

She believes in life after death

Answer 7

Sie glaubt an das Leben nach dem Tod.

Question 8

Translate the following:

It is not permitted to take photographs

Answer 8

Das Fotografieren ist verboten.

Question 9

Translate the following:

I love hang-gliding

Answer 9

Ich liebe das Drachenfliegen.

Question 10

Translate the following:

A translation from Russian
You don’t say that in German
I can speak German/I know German

Answer 10

Eine Uebersetzung aus dem Russischen.

Question 11

Translate the following:

April was rainy

In winter the stream freezes over

Answer 11

Der April war verregnet

Im Winter friert der Bach zu.