A2 · GRAMMAR
Dative Case: dem, der, mir, dir
In A1, you learned the subject (Nominative) and direct object (Accusative). The Dative is the third case: it answers 'to whom?' or 'for whom?'. In the Dative, all articles change, but the pattern is very regular: dem, der, dem, den.
In this lesson
1. To whom? → Dative
Used for the indirect object, often translating to 'to' or 'for' someone.
Ich gebe dem Kind einen Apfel.
I am giving an apple to the child.
2. Articles
der → dem, die → der, das → dem, plural → den (+ add -n to the noun).
mit den Kindern
with the children
3. Pronouns
mir, dir, ihm, ihr, ihm, uns, euch, ihnen / Ihnen.
Wie geht es dir?
How are you?
4. Dative Verbs
helfen, danken, gefallen, gehören, schmecken, passen, gratulieren.
Das Kleid gefällt mir.
I like the dress.
5. Two Objects
Person is Dative, thing is Accusative.
Ich schenke meiner Frau Blumen.
I am giving flowers to my wife.
💡 The Dative markers are -m and -r: dem, einem, ihm / der, einer, ihr. Whenever you see these two letters, think Dative.