verb
to be pleased, to look forward to
A1
freuen means to be pleased or to look forward to. Commonly used reflexively: sich freuen über (to be pleased about) and sich freuen auf (to look forward to). Regular weak verb (Perfekt: gefreut) with auxiliary haben. Non‑reflexive uses exist but are less common.
Examples
Ich freue mich auf das Wochenende.
I'm looking forward to the weekend.
Wir freuen uns auf den Urlaub.
We're looking forward to the holiday.
Ich habe mich sehr gefreut.
I was very pleased.
Details
Mnemonics
Imagine opening a gift and the tag says 'freuen' with a smiling face.
Think 'free-on' — you feel free and happy (pleased).
Notes
Commonly used reflexively (sich freuen). Can be used non-reflexively with a direct object in some contexts. | Reflexive verb; passive voice forms are not applicable.