Tips5 min read

10 Common Mistakes German Learners Make

S
Sarah Müller
Nov 28, 2025

Learning German can be challenging, but avoiding these common mistakes will help you sound more like a native speaker.

1. Confusing "ie" and "ei"

This is a classic mistake. Remember: "ie" is pronounced like "ee" in "see", while "ei" is pronounced like "eye".

Example: Wien (Vienna) vs. Wein (Wine).

2. Using the wrong article

Der, die, das... it's a nightmare for many. Always learn the article with the noun!

3. Word Order

In a main clause, the verb is always in the second position. In a subordinate clause, it goes to the end.

4. False Friends

Bekommen means "to get", not "to become". Werden means "to become".

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