Learn German effectively

Learn German online.

Advance in your career or explore the world with personalized 1-on-1 German courses taught by the best online tutors.

Learn German grammar

Practice between lessons with our grammar reference, chat with your tutor anytime, and get free access to tons of learning tools to help you keep the momentum going.

Test your German level for free

Find out your level of grammar with this easy 20-minute German placement test.ย 

Learn German with 1:1 online lessons

Germany

Speaks German (Native)

$55

per lesson

4.91

43 reviews

Motivating professional full-scale - language-coaching โ€“ Welcome to my german-language-classroom! In case you stay in germany for just a while or longer, or maybe you work with germans in a team and want to improve your language-skills you meet the matching supporter. Longterm experience as a teacher in german (evening-school with adults) as well as a ...

Read more

Switzerland

Speaks German (Native)

$44

per lesson

5

3 reviews

23 Jahre als Lehrer unterwegs und immer noch macht es mir Spass! Dank Online-Unterricht und flexiblen Unterrichtszeiten werden wir zusammen deine Lernziele sicher erreichen! โ€“ "Sprachen รถffnen dir Tรผr und Tor!" - Das ist der Grund, warum ich auch nach vielen Jahren als Sprachlehrer auch immer noch selber Unterricht nehme. Seit 2000 bin ich in der Erwachsenenbildung tรคtig. Seit es Online-Kurse gibt, kann ich sogar noch mehr Studenten erreichen, und gemeinsam deine Lernziele erreichen.

Read more

Germany

Speaks German (Native)

$60

per lesson

5

10 reviews

Certified tutor with 3 years of experience. โ€“ Hi, my name is Lisa and I am from Germany. I love travelling, meeting new people their cultures and languages. Next to my interest in languages I love the ocean and surfing. I studied teaching in germany and through a lot of travelling I discoverd my interest in the german language.

Read more

How does Preply work?

Find your tutor

Find your tutor

Choose the ideal tutor for you

Take personalized lessons

Take personalized lessons

Learn with a tutor who focuses on your goals

Speak with confidence

Speak with confidence

Start speaking from day one and notice your quick progress

What our German students say

Polina

5

Aug 3, 2022

Kerstin is an amazing teacher who proves that German can be fun :) She is always super prepared for the lesson which makes learning process more interesting and dynamic, and never boring! Absolutely, totally recommended!

Erik

5

Aug 3, 2022

Sandra did a great job. Native German speaker, fun attitude, understood how to help my German improve. My needs were not traditional (preparing for a German-speaking acting role), and Sandra was able to help!

Christine

5

Aug 3, 2022

Robin is a great German tutor! She is super kind and wants to make sure you get the most out of lessons by teaching what you want to learn. She also gives great feedback throughout the lesson. I highly recommend this tutor :)

Aryan

5

Aug 3, 2022

My 11 year old son has been learning German from Mira T. since last December and it has been a great experience. She is a very thoughtful teacher who puts a lot of effort into how she presents the material. I would highly recommend her to anyone interested in learning German language

Sarah

5

Aug 3, 2022

I really enjoyed my first lesson with Teresa, focussing on spoken German. Teresa really understood my goals and made the first session super useful already, she is patient, relatable, interesting and she asks really great questions!

Preply

โ€บ

Learn a language

โ€บ

Learn German online

Learn German with Preply

Whether you're a complete beginner eager to dive into the fascinating world of the German language or an experienced German speaker seeking a refresher course, Preply is your ultimate destination for mastering German online. Learn the German language the most effective way possible and accelerate your language goals withย private German lessonsย orย online German classesย from the comfort of your own home!

Why learn German?

Are you ready to embark on a linguistic journey that will open up a world of possibilities? Learning German is more than just mastering a new language; it's a transformative experience that brings a plethora of personal and professional benefits. Whether you're a language enthusiast, an aspiring global professional, or simply a culture enthusiast eager to explore new horizons, the German language has something extraordinary to offer. Let's dive into the captivating world of "Learn German" and discover the advantages that await those who dare to take the plunge.
Here are just a few of the many ways you can make a positive impact on your life if you learn German.
Build Your Business German Skills In today's interconnected global economy, being bilingual is a formidable advantage. German is the economic powerhouse of Europe, with a strong presence in industries like automotive engineering, technology, and finance. Mastering the language opens up a plethora of job opportunities with prestigious German companies and multinational corporations.
German proficiency also enhances your employability in the academic and research domains. Germany is home to some of the world's top universities and research institutions, offering you the chance to collaborate with brilliant minds and contribute to cutting-edge research. The ability to communicate fluently in German can give you an edge in landing coveted positions and academic exchanges.
Learn German For Travel and Culture The German-speaking world boasts a rich tapestry of history and arts waiting to be explored. Learning German is like a time machine that transports you back to the golden age of the Holy Roman Empire, the Enlightenment, and the Romantic era. By understanding the language, you can delve deeper into the complexities of European history and gain valuable insights into the roots of Western civilization. Beyond history, modern German media and entertainment provide an immersive experience that transcends borders. Discover the charm of German cinema with thought-provoking films that challenge conventions and push boundaries. Delight in the rhythm of German music, from the classical symphonies of Beethoven to the infectious beats of contemporary artists. Language is the key to fully savoring these cultural gems.
Many aspiring language learners might feel daunted by the idea of learning German, but rest assured, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. One common concern is the perception that German is an excessively complex language. While it does have its intricacies, with dedication and the right approach, learning German becomes an achievable and fulfilling endeavor.
To overcome challenges, immerse yourself in the language and culture. Engage in conversations with native speakers, practice listening to German radio or podcasts, and watch German movies with subtitles. Online language courses, language exchange platforms, and mobile apps can provide valuable support throughout your learning journey.
Learning German is an empowering experience that offers a kaleidoscope of personal and professional rewards. It opens the door to connecting with millions of speakers worldwide, unravels the richness of German culture and heritage, and boosts your global career prospects. The journey may have its ups and downs, but the sense of fulfillment and enrichment it brings are immeasurable. So, why wait? Seize this opportunity to embrace the language of Goethe and Kafka and embark on a path that will forever shape your life for the better. Take the first step into the enchanting world of "Learn German" today!

Basic German lessons: Learn German For Beginners

ย 

Embark on a journey to explore the captivating German language, which boasts a rich heritage and belongs to the same Germanic language family as German, Dutch, and Swedish. Originating from the medieval Anglo-Saxon dialects spoken in Germany, German shares many familiar words with its linguistic relatives. Interestingly, while German is technically a Germanic language, it has assimilated numerous words from Latin and other Romance languages, much like German.
An intriguing aspect of the German language lies in its diverse vocabulary, heavily influenced by Latin and French. This influence stems from historical events like the Norman Conquest in 1066, which resulted in the adoption of French as the language of the German elite. As a result, about 60% of German vocabulary has Latin or French roots, adding depth and sophistication to the language.
As a beginner in learning German, you may encounter some initial challenges, but with practice, you'll find it increasingly manageable. For instance, the unique "ch" sound, as in "ich" or "nach," may be unfamiliar to non-German speakers. It requires a soft, breathy sound, similar to clearing one's throat. Additionally, mastering the German umlauts (รค, รถ, รผ) can be tricky, as they modify the pronunciation of vowels and lend distinctiveness to certain words.
German pronunciation can be both fascinating and perplexing, as some letters and letter combinations produce entirely different sounds than what you might expect. For example, the letter "w" is pronounced like "v," and the letter "v" is pronounced like "f." Moreover, German has a phonetic alphabet, meaning words are pronounced as they are written, making pronunciation more straightforward compared to some other languages.
Like German, German also has a specific stress and intonation pattern. German is considered a syllable-timed language, where each syllable takes about the same amount of time to pronounce. Understanding these stress patterns is vital for sounding natural when speaking German and expressing yourself clearly.
To communicate fluently in German, it's essential to start with fundamental conversational phrases. Greet others with a warm "Guten Morgen" (good morning), "Guten Tag" (good day), or "Guten Abend" (good evening), or simply use the informal "Hallo" (hello). Basic phrases like "Wie geht es Ihnen?" (How are you?) and "Wie heiรŸen Sie?" (What's your name?) are essential when initiating conversations with others. When introducing yourself, say "Ich heiรŸe X" (My name is X) or "Ich bin X" (I am X), and inquire about their name by asking "Wie heiรŸen Sie?" To discuss your origin, use "Ich komme aus X" (I am from X), and to ask someone where they are from, say "Woher kommen Sie?"
For farewells, "Auf Wiedersehen" (goodbye) is commonly used, while "Bis bald" (see you soon) and "Bis spรคter" (see you later) offer alternative options. As you progress in your German learning journey, you'll discover an array of useful phrases, expressions, and words that will enrich your conversational abilities and allow you to interact effortlessly with native German speakers. From polite expressions like "bitte" (please) and "danke" (thank you) to "Entschuldigung" (excuse me) and "Es tut mir leid" (I'm sorry), mastering these phrases will enhance your language experience and cultural understanding.
Embarking on German lessons for beginners is an enriching and rewarding endeavor that opens doors to German culture, history, and connections with millions of speakers worldwide. As you delve deeper into this beautiful language, you'll find yourself captivated by its nuances, expressing yourself with eloquence, and embracing the cultural heritage that comes with it.

Learn German Verb Conjugations: Mastering German Verbs

Verbs serve as the backbone of any German sentence, enabling you to express actions and states with precision. German verbs undergo conjugation, where their form changes based on the subject performing the action. Unlike German, German verbs rely more on inflections and word order to indicate tense and mood.
German verbs can take on various forms, including the infinitive form (e.g., "sprechen" - to speak, "machen" - to do, "sein" - to be), the present tense (e.g., "spreche" - I speak, "machst" - you do, "ist" - he/she/it is), the past tense (e.g., "sprach" - I spoke, "machte" - he/she/it did, "war" - he/she/it was), and the future tense (e.g., "werde sprechen" - I will speak, "wirst machen" - you will do, "wird sein" - he/she/it will be).
To use German verbs accurately, it's essential to grasp their conjugation patterns and how they change based on the subject and tense. While German verbs may have more distinct endings than German, they still undergo systematic changes. For example, in the present tense, the verb "sprechen" changes to "ich spreche," "du sprichst," "er/sie/es spricht," "wir sprechen," "ihr sprecht," and "sie sprechen." In the past tense, it changes to "ich sprach," "du sprachst," "er/sie/es sprach," "wir sprachen," "ihr spracht," and "sie sprachen."
Mastering German verb conjugations is fundamental for effective communication in German, and a significant part of your learning journey will be dedicated to understanding the grammar of German verbs. As you gain proficiency in this aspect, you'll unlock the true potential of the German language and be well on your way to fluency in German. With each conjugation mastered, you'll express yourself confidently and engage in meaningful conversations with native German speakers, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture and heritage that accompanies this beautiful language.

German Nouns and Gender: Understanding Gender in German

Unlike German, German nouns have grammatical gender, adding a unique dimension to the language. In German, every noun is classified as masculine, feminine, or neuter, determining how articles, adjectives, and pronouns are used in connection with them. The gender of a German noun is not based on biological sex but rather a grammatical classification.
Learning the gender of German nouns can be challenging for non-native speakers, as there are no fixed rules dictating the gender of every word. However, some patterns and hints can aid in understanding gender assignments. For example, most nouns denoting male beings (e.g., professions like "der Arzt" - the doctor, "der Lehrer" - the teacher) are masculine. Nouns denoting female beings (e.g., "die Frau" - the woman, "die Lehrerin" - the female teacher) are feminine. Additionally, diminutives are generally neuter (e.g., "das Mรคdchen" - the girl).
The definite articles "der" (masculine), "die" (feminine), and "das" (neuter) are used in connection with German nouns, and these articles change based on gender and case. For example, "der Hund" (the dog) is masculine nominative, but in the accusative case, it becomes "den Hund." Similarly, "die Katze" (the cat) is feminine nominative, and in the accusative case, it becomes "die Katze." Neuter nouns, such as "das Haus" (the house), remain the same in both nominative and accusative cases.
Adjectives in German also change according to the gender and case of the noun they modify. This phenomenon is known as adjective declension. Adjectives take different endings based on whether they are used with masculine, feminine, or neuter nouns and whether the noun is in the nominative, accusative, dative, or genitive case. For instance, "der rote Apfel" (the red apple) has the adjective "rote" agreeing with the masculine noun "Apfel" in the nominative case. In the accusative case, it becomes "den roten Apfel."
Mastering gender in German is essential for correct grammar and effective communication. While it may seem daunting at first, regular practice and exposure to the language will gradually familiarize you with the gender of common nouns. As you progress in your German learning journey, understanding gender will enable you to express yourself more accurately and navigate the intricacies of this fascinating language. Embrace the challenge, and soon you'll find yourself confidently using German nouns and their corresponding gender in various contexts.

What's the Quickest and Easiest Way to Learn the German Language?

ย  What's the best and simplest method to learn German? There's no definitive answer to how you can acquire a new language. With numerous options available, it's no surprise that selecting a learning style or approach can be overwhelming. The fastest and easiest way to learn German is the one that minimizes difficulties. If you find textbook reading tedious or get bored with flashcards, it might be better to choose a more engaging and exciting method. Understanding your own preferences is crucial for success.
Among the millions of non-native German speakers and learners, you'll encounter individuals who have utilized various resources to grasp the language. Some resources are free, while others come at a low cost or require a significant financial investment. There is no correct combination, and it's up to you to determine the most suitable methods. Here are a few methods to rapidly learn German:
Online German Courses, Classes, Software, or Apps: Access paid or free online resources and websites for learning German, including courses, classes, software, or apps.
Learning German in the Classroom: German is widely taught in schools and universities globally. Classroom German learning is a popular choice for students of all ages, providing interactive sessions with teachers who can correct mistakes and offer feedback. Additionally, interacting with fellow learners facilitates conversation practice.
Learning German with a Private Tutor: Private tutoring offers personalized learning experiences similar to traditional classrooms. Having a skilled tutor by your side can help you improve your pronunciation and focus on areas where you struggle. Many tutoring sessions take place via video calls, eliminating the need for in-person meetings. However, finding a top-quality tutor at an affordable price can be challenging, but don't worry: Preply lessons are much more affordable than traditional in-person German classes.

How Can I Learn German on My Own? โ€” Useful Resources for Learning German

ย  When German classes, teachers, or native speakers aren't accessible, there are still numerous German media resources to aid your path to fluency. Many of these resources are available for free online or at low costs through subscriptions to platforms like Netflix or Spotify.
Books to Learn German: If you enjoy reading, there is a wide range of German literature that can help you master the language. German books cater to all skill levels, from beginner-level short story collections to advanced works of fiction or non-fiction. Reading books in German allows you to progress at your own pace and expand your vocabulary. Reading aloud can also provide speaking and
pronunciation practice.
Learning German with Podcasts, Songs, and Audio Resources: German podcasts offer a natural way to hear the language spoken by native speakers. From beginner-level grammar podcasts to advanced storytelling podcasts, there are plenty of options available, many of which are free. Listening to German songs also aids language acquisition, especially when combined with reading the lyrics and using them for further practice.
Learning with German TV Shows and Movies: Watching German movies and TV shows provides an engaging way to connect with the language. Streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime offer a wide variety of content for different proficiency levels. Subtitles can be used to aid reading comprehension, and pausing to look up unfamiliar words enhances learning. Breaking up the content into manageable chunks helps prevent overwhelm.
Free Online German Classes, Software, and Apps: There is an abundance of free German content available online and through mobile apps. From grammar wikis to forums and classes, you can find numerous options. However, be aware that free products often sacrifice quality and may lack listening and speaking practice. Interactive lessons can be basic, poorly designed, and filled with ads. Therefore, it's crucial to supplement such resources with additional materials.
German Flashcards and Phrasebooks: German flashcards are portable and enable practice anytime. Similarly, German phrasebooks provide practical expressions for real-life situations, such as ordering at restaurants or asking for directions. Carrying a pocket phrasebook while traveling can be convenient. Remember, while flashcards and phrasebooks are valuable learning tools, they cannot teach you spontaneous language usage in conversations. For that, you need to engage in real German dialogues.

Learning German With Preply

ย 

Preply is an online platform that connects students with language tutors from all over the world. It is a great way to learn German for a number of reasons:

โ€ข You can learn at your own pace. With Preply, you can schedule lessons with your tutor whenever you want, so you can fit your learning into your busy schedule. โ€ข You can choose a tutor who is a native German speaker. This is important for getting the most accurate pronunciation and grammar instruction. โ€ข You can get personalized attention. Your tutor will be able to focus on your specific needs and help you improve your German at your own pace. โ€ข It is affordable. Preply lessons are much more affordable than traditional in-person German classes.
If you are interested in learning German with Preply, here are the steps you need to take:
โ€ข Create a free account on Preply. โ€ข Search for German tutors in your area or in a specific country. โ€ข Filter your search results by criteria such as price, experience, and teaching style. โ€ข Read the tutor profiles and watch their video introductions to learn more about them. โ€ข Book a trial lesson with a tutor to see if they are a good fit for you.
If you are happy with the trial lesson, you can then book regular lessons with your tutor. We offer a variety of payment options, so you can find a plan that fits your budget.

Frequently asked questions

There are lots of ways you can study German online with options to suit every learning style. Some people might find videos and visuals help them retain information and vocabulary, while others might prefer written texts. Most students benefit from 1-on-1 learning and regular conversations with a tutor who can help them master pronunciation and speaking and listening skills. Preply students say that being able to take private language classes online is even more beneficial than in-person because of the quick and easy access to tutors and materials.
There's no quick fix when it comes to learning German but there are ways to speed up your progress. Private classes with a German personal tutor mean that you have their full focus throughout your classes and they can instantly offer feedback and pick up any mistakes. It also means you get more time to practice speaking and you can tailor lessons around your interests and specific goals. This personalised attention will help you learn to speak German fluently much more quickly and see big improvements in a short space of time.
There are lots of websites that offer assistance to beginners wanting to learn German, but it's important to make sure you're only learning from trustworthy sources. Through Preply, you can find and connect with a wide range of tutors with different specialisms and qualifications so you can make sure you find the best match for your needs. As well as working with you 1-on-1 to help improve your German and give you the chance to practice your conversational skills, they can help direct you towards reliable resources to further your self-study.