Ultimate German MODAL VERBS Course A1-B1

The first modal verb we’ll introduce you to is “können”, which translates as can or to be able (to do something).

The second modal verb we will cover is “müssen”, which is must or to have to in English. Be careful with the negation of this verb, as the meaning differs completely from the English negation of must!

The third of the six modal verbs you will learn is “wollen”, which means to want in English.

Our fourth modal verb is “mögen”, which translates as to like and expresses preference. There is a special grammatical version of this modal verb, which is “möchten”. This one expresses wishes and is used in certain situations as a more polite alternative to the modal verb “wollen”.

This module covers the modal verb “dürfen”, which is may in English. It is used to express permissions, or bans in the negated form.

It’s time to learn the last modal verb, which is “sollen”. Common English translations include to shall or to be supposed to.  One of its functions is to express instructions and orders. This verb also has a special grammatical version, which is “sollten”. It is used to express recommendations.

This module contains a quick overview of the six modal verbs you have learned by now and then dives deep into lots of exercises where you can test your knowledge of all six modal verbs and all of their functions and meanings.

In this module, you will learn all you need to know when using subclauses combined with modal verbs. First, you will be introduced to the three types of subclauses, which are subclauses with subjunctions, relative clauses and indirect questions and you will learn how to construct them. Then, we will focus on changes in word order, which happen as a consequence of using them.

This module will bring you one step closer to sounding like a native German speaker! We will teach you how and when to use modal verbs without an infinitive. This is how German is spoken in real life and this topic is forgotten in most grammar courses.

This module covers the usage of modal verbs in the “Präteritum”, which corresponds to the English simple past tense. Most often in contemporary German, you can use the easier tense, which is the “Perfect”. However, when using modal verbs, we have the strong tendency of using them in the “Präteritum”.

With this module, you can boost your knowledge about the modal verbs. You will learn about some exceptions to our word order rules. In addition, we will contrast (seemingly) similar modal verbs and show you exactly which strategies to use to avoid common mistakes.

In this and the two subsequent modules, we will present real life dialogs to you. You will not only see modal verbs in action, but you will also strengthen your comprehension skills. This first dialog is about a French couple from Paris planning a trip to Berlin.

The second dialog is about the same French couple, who arrived in Berlin now and will discover the city.

The third dialog is about Mathias, who lives in the Southern city of Heidelberg and Carlos, who is visiting his German friend. They are hungry and are about to go to a restaurant, where traditional German food is served.

In this module, we will revisit the three preceding dialogs. We will explain difficult grammatical aspects and words, provide you with the English translations and some cultural information.