German separable verbs: where does the prefix go?

Where does the prefix go?

In a simple statement, conjugate the base verb in the second slot and put the separable prefix at the end. The two pieces still belong to one verb.

Nora macht das Fenster auf.

Nora opens the window.

What changes in a question?

For a yes/no question, put the conjugated part first. The prefix still closes the short clause. A question word, if present, comes before the conjugated part.

Machst du das Fenster auf?

Are you opening the window?

Why does a modal keep the verb together?

With a modal, the other verb is an infinitive. Keep its prefix attached and place the whole infinitive at the end. Do not add a modal just to avoid separation: it changes the meaning.

Nora will das Fenster aufmachen.

Nora wants to open the window.

Can I tell from the spelling?

Both separable and inseparable infinitives are written as one word. Learn the full verb, stress and separation together. For example, aufmachen separates, while besuchen does not. A dictionary can confirm an unfamiliar verb.

Nora besucht ihre Schwester.

Nora visits her sister.

A small prefix can change the action

Compare kaufen (buy) with einkaufen (shop). Listen for the final prefix before deciding which verb a short clause contains. These are beginner main-clause patterns; other constructions are taught separately.

Heute kauft Nora ein.

Today Nora is shopping.

Practise separable verbs

The A1 block combines explanations, controlled gaps, a block check and spaced review. This interactive block requires course access or an eligible seven-day trial. The first 10 blocks of each language remain free.

Commands use the same full verb: zumachen becomes Macht bitte das Fenster zu! when addressing a familiar group. The prefix belongs to the verb; it is not an unrelated extra word. Continue with instructions and requests to practise informal and formal address.

Build on the basics

Review present-tense endings and verb-second order, or explore the free starter blocks. For routines and appointments, practise numbers, times and dates. Later, learn how infinitives with zu work.

Grammar references

Original examples and teaching prose, checked against LEO: separable verbs and IDS: sentence brackets and word order. The A1 placement is an editorial learning sequence, not a proficiency certificate.