Introduction to Genitiv with Names
In German, the Genitiv case is used to show possession or relationship. With names, it’s simple: just add -s to the end of the name (without an apostrophe). This structure is similar to using 's in English.
Note: Do not add an extra -s if the name already ends in -s, -x, or -z.
How to Use Genitiv with Names
To express possession or relationship using the Genitiv case, place the possessor’s name with -s before the noun being possessed:
- Marias Auto (Maria’s car)
- Pauls Buch (Paul’s book)
- Max’ Fahrrad (Max’s bike) – no extra -s after names ending in -s, -x, or -z
Examples of Genitiv with Names
- Karins Hund - Karin’s dog
- Hans’ Haus - Hans’s house
- Emmas Katze - Emma’s cat
- Andreas’ Fahrrad - Andreas’s bike
- Leons Garten - Leon’s garden
Examples Comparing Possession in English and German
| English |
German |
| Anna’s dress |
Annas Kleid |
| Peter’s phone |
Peters Telefon |
| Linda’s book |
Lindas Buch |
| Felix’s keys |
Felix’ Schlüssel |
Practice Sentences Using Genitiv with Names
Below are some sentences for practice. Try to translate them into English and identify the meaning:
- Susans Tasche ist neu. (Susan’s bag is new.)
- Roberts Auto ist schnell. (Robert’s car is fast.)
- Jens’ Fahrrad ist alt. (Jens’s bike is old.)
- Sabines Hund bellt viel. (Sabine’s dog barks a lot.)
- Jonas’ Zimmer ist sauber. (Jonas’s room is clean.)