Introduction to Partizip I and Partizip II as Adjectives
In German, participles can be used as adjectives. Partizip I (present participle) describes an ongoing action or state, while Partizip II (past participle) describes a completed action or state. Both forms take adjective endings based on the gender, case, and number of the noun they modify.
Using Partizip I as an Adjective
Partizip I is formed by adding -d to the infinitive verb. It translates to “-ing” in English, such as "running" or "interesting." Partizip I is often used to describe someone or something performing an action.
| Example Verb |
Partizip I |
Adjective Translation |
| laufen (to run) |
laufend |
running |
| interessieren (to interest) |
interessierend |
interesting |
| sprechen (to speak) |
sprechend |
speaking |
Examples with Partizip I
Das ist ein interessierendes Buch. - This is an interesting book.
Der laufende Mann ist schnell. - The running man is fast.
Sie sehen die sprechende Person auf der Bühne. - They see the speaking person on the stage.
Using Partizip II as an Adjective
Partizip II is the past participle form of the verb, often used to describe completed actions or states. It translates to the “-ed” or past-tense form of adjectives in English, such as "interested" or "closed."
| Example Verb |
Partizip II |
Adjective Translation |
| interessieren (to interest) |
interessiert |
interested |
| schließen (to close) |
geschlossen |
closed |
| brechen (to break) |
gebrochen |
broken |
Examples with Partizip II
Er ist ein interessierter Leser. - He is an interested reader.
Die geschlossene Tür war nicht einfach zu öffnen. - The closed door was not easy to open.
Das gebrochene Glas liegt auf dem Boden. - The broken glass is on the floor.
Note: Practice using both Partizip I and Partizip II as adjectives to build confidence in describing ongoing and completed actions in German.