Dative case
A2 · Elementary · Cases & Verbs
The rule
Dative: dem (m, n), der (f), den + -n (pl). Used for the indirect object.
How it works
The dative case marks the indirect object, usually the person who receives or benefits from the action. In Ich gebe dem Kind ein Buch, the child is dative and the book is accusative. The dative is also required by many prepositions and verbs. Dative articles are dem (masculine and neuter), der (feminine) and den with an extra -n for plurals.
When to use it
Use the dative for the indirect object (to whom or for whom something is done), after certain prepositions and with certain verbs.
Use cases
- Naming the recipient of an action: Ich schreibe meiner Mutter
- Using dative prepositions such as mit and bei
- Describing location with two-way prepositions (Wo?)
Examples
- Ich gebe dem Kind ein Buch – I give the child a book
- Ich helfe dem Mann. – I help the man.
- Sie zeigt der Lehrerin das Heft. – She shows the teacher the notebook.
- Wir wohnen bei unseren Eltern. – We live with our parents.
Common mistake
Using the accusative for the indirect object, for example "Ich gebe den Mann das Buch" instead of "Ich gebe dem Mann das Buch".
Memory tip
Dative endings: dem for masculine and neuter, der for feminine, den plus -n for plurals. Ask "to whom?" to find the dative.
Read the wider picture in our guide: German Cases Explained: Nominative, Accusative, Dative and Genitive.