Translation of German word "können" to English
können
/kɔnən/
Meaning
VerbCan, to have the ability to.
How to use
können ('can, to be able to') is a modal verb expressing ability or possibility (Ich kann schwimmen). The main verb goes to the end of the clause in the infinitive. Irregular present: ich kann, du kannst, er kann, wir können.
🇬🇧 English
to be able to
Example
Das konnte man von der anderen Seite des Raumes aus deutlich erkennen.
You could clearly see this from across the room.
Your personal vocabulary
🦊 Use this word in a live AI conversationSynonyms
Common phrases
- Deutsch können— to know German
- es kann sein— it may be
- nicht mehr können— to be exhausted
More Core Verbs words
This concept in other languages
📖 Related grammar
🦊 Conjugation of the verb "können"Full conjugation →
Present Tense (Präsens)
Simple Past (Präteritum)
Perfect (Perfekt)
ich habe gekonnt
Imperative (Imperativ)
Frequency rank: #154 in German
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the definition of the German word "können"?▼
The German word "können" is defined as: "Can, to have the ability to."
What does the German word "können" mean?▼
The German word "können" means "to be able to" in English.
How do you pronounce the German word "können"?▼
You can hear the correct audio pronunciation of the word "können" by clicking the play button next to the word at the top of this page.
Can I see an example sentence with "können"?▼
Yes, here is a practical example: "Das konnte man von der anderen Seite des Raumes aus deutlich erkennen." (which translates as "You could clearly see this from across the room.").
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