Introduction to N-Deklination
In German, some masculine nouns follow a special declension pattern known as the N-Deklination. These nouns add an "-n" or "-en" ending in all cases except the nominative singular. N-declension nouns are often weak nouns, including people, animals, and nationalities.
Identifying N-Declension Nouns
Here are some common N-declension nouns:
| Singular Noun |
Meaning |
Genitive Singular |
Accusative Singular |
Dative Singular |
| der Junge |
the boy |
des Jungen |
den Jungen |
dem Jungen |
| der Student |
the student |
des Studenten |
den Studenten |
dem Studenten |
| der Herr |
the gentleman |
des Herrn |
den Herrn |
dem Herrn |
| der Mensch |
the human |
des Menschen |
den Menschen |
dem Menschen |
| der Name |
the name |
des Namens |
den Namen |
dem Namen |
Examples of N-Declension Nouns in Sentences
Here are some example sentences showing N-declension nouns in different cases:
Ich kenne den Jungen. (I know the boy.) - Accusative
Die Meinung des Studenten ist wichtig. (The opinion of the student is important.) - Genitive
Ich gebe dem Menschen das Buch. (I give the book to the human.) - Dative
Der Herr spricht mit mir. (The gentleman speaks with me.) - Nominative
Special Notes for N-Deklination
Most N-declension nouns are masculine and typically refer to people or animals. They add an "-n" or "-en" in the accusative, dative, and genitive cases.
Additional Examples
- Ich sehe den Namen des Künstlers. (I see the name of the artist.)
- Er hilft dem Touristen. (He helps the tourist.)
- Das Haus des Nachbarn ist schön. (The neighbor’s house is beautiful.)
Note: The genitive forms of these nouns often require memorization, as they don't always follow predictable rules. Practice using them in sentences to reinforce understanding.