Problem areas for German speakers

'by' and 'until'

The most important common mistake I hear from German speakers is with 'by' and 'until'. The reason it is important is when used wrong it can be very confusing for the listener.

By and until video explanation:

Written explanation of 'by' and 'until' (in German).

'By' and 'until' practise sentences.

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'since' and 'for'

This is not as important as 'by and until' as it doesn't change the meaning of the sentence. However, it can sound quite bad sometimes and is a quick win as the rule is simple.

​Video explanation:

'since' and 'for' practise sentences

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there is/ there are

'there' translation list PDF

Practise the translation list on Quizlet

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'aktuel' is NOT 'actually'

Video explantion:

Written explanation with examples.

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'eventuell' is not 'eventually'

''eventuell' is best translated as 'maybe' or 'possibly'.

Eventually means 'in the end' or 'finally'. A good German translation for this is 'schließlich' or 'letztendlich'.

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The difference between 'remind' and 'remember'

Written explanation and practise sentences

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'we'll see us' is NOT correct

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Happy or lucky

This one is easy!
to be lucky = Gluck haben 
​to be happy = glücklich sein

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The most common phrasal verbs mistakes I hear

Watch this video to find out which phrasal verbs Germans normally get wrong.