German Modal Verbs to Know for AP German

German modal verbs are essential for expressing ability, necessity, permission, and desire. Understanding these verbs helps you communicate effectively in various situations, making them a key part of mastering the language in AP German.

1. Können (can, to be able to)

   • Indicates ability or capability to perform an action.
   • Used to express permission in informal contexts.
   • Conjugation changes based on the subject (ich kann, du kannst, er/sie/es kann).
   • Often used in questions to inquire about someone's ability.
   • Commonly paired with infinitives to describe what someone can do.

2. Müssen (must, to have to)

   • Expresses necessity or obligation to perform an action.
   • Indicates a strong requirement, often with no alternative.
   • Conjugation varies with the subject (ich muss, du musst, er/sie/es muss).
   • Frequently used in contexts involving rules or laws.
   • Can imply urgency when discussing time-sensitive actions.

3. Dürfen (may, to be allowed to)

   • Indicates permission or the right to do something.
   • Used to ask for or grant permission in formal and informal contexts.
   • Conjugation changes with the subject (ich darf, du darfst, er/sie/es darf).
   • Often used in questions to inquire about permission.
   • Can imply a moral or ethical consideration regarding actions.

4. Sollen (should, ought to)

   • Expresses a recommendation or suggestion about what one ought to do.
   • Indicates an expectation or duty, often from an external source.
   • Conjugation varies with the subject (ich soll, du sollst, er/sie/es soll).
   • Commonly used in advice-giving contexts.
   • Can imply a sense of responsibility or obligation.

5. Wollen (want to)

   • Indicates a desire or intention to perform an action.
   • Used to express personal wishes or goals.
   • Conjugation changes based on the subject (ich will, du willst, er/sie/es will).
   • Often used in future plans or aspirations.
   • Can convey determination or strong intent.

6. Mögen (to like)

   • Expresses liking or preference for something or someone.
   • Used to indicate enjoyment or fondness in various contexts.
   • Conjugation varies with the subject (ich mag, du magst, er/sie/es mag).
   • Can be used in both positive and negative constructions (e.g., "Ich mag das nicht" - I don't like that).
   • Often paired with nouns or infinitives to specify what is liked.