für

preposition
for
A1

Für is a German preposition meaning 'for'. It always governs the accusative (e.g., 'für mich', 'für den Mann'). Used for purposes, beneficiaries, duration in some contexts, or exchange. No declension; combine with articles into accusative forms (für den, für die, für das).

Examples

Das Geschenk ist für dich.
The present is for you.
Der Vorstand entschied sich für einen Neubau, weil das alte Gebäude nicht mehr sicher gewesen war.
The board decided in favor of a new building because the old building had no longer been safe.

Details

Caseaccusative
Always takes the accusative (e.g., 'für mich', 'für den Mann').

Mnemonics

👁️Picture a gift tag labeled 'für dich' (for you) to remember usage
👂Like English 'for' — 'für' sounds similar in function

Notes

Governs the accusative case.

Category

Vocabulary Explorer

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