I. Theory
Both German and English use compound nouns (a noun created by combining nouns). In German, these words are formed in different ways, which are not always predictable. For this reason, it is best to commit them to memory. In this lesson, we will discuss the various ways these nouns can be formed.Here are some examples of the different formation methods:
| Arbeitgeber (no connector) Employer But Arbeitsplatz (-s-) workplace Geburtenregister Birth register But Geburtsort Place of birth |
II. No Connecting Element
This group of compound nouns simply attaches one noun to another without any connecting element in between.| Kennen Sie den Hausbesitzer? Do you know the homeowner? Ich freue mich auf das neue Computerspiel. I am looking forward to the new computer game. |
III. -n- or -en-
-n- is often added to nouns that end in a vowel, while -en- is added to the first noun if it ends in a consonant. The -n- can also convey a plural first noun.| Hast du den Kundendienst angerufen? (plural first noun) Did you call customer service? In einer Demokratie hat man Gedankenfreiheit. (plural first noun) In a democracy, one has freedom of thought. |
IV. -ns-
This connector is usually found when possession is conveyed.| Hast du wieder dein Namensschild verloren? Did you lose your nametag again? Die zwei Armeen einigten sich auf einen Friedensvertrag. The two armies agreed to a peace treaty. |