The German verb "lassen" with ALL its meanings | A2 & B1 Level

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the various meanings and uses of the German verb "lassen." Understanding "lassen" is essential as it is a common verb with several applications, including its use as a main verb, modal verb, or in passive forms. By the end of this tutorial, you will have a solid grasp of how to use "lassen" in different contexts, along with example sentences.

Step 1: Explore the Meanings of Lassen

"Lassen" has multiple meanings. Here are the six main uses:

1. To let or allow (e.g., etwas erlauben)
2. To have something done (e.g., etwas veranlassen)
3. To leave something behind (e.g., etwas zurücklassen)
4. To make a suggestion (e.g., einen Vorschlag machen)
5. To stop doing something (e.g., aufhören)
6. As a substitute for passive forms (e.g., lassen in passive constructions)

Understanding these meanings will help you use "lassen" accurately in conversation.

Step 2: Conjugation of Lassen

Before using "lassen," it's important to know how to conjugate it. Here's how to conjugate "lassen" in the present tense:

• ich lasse (I let)
• du lässt (you let - informal)
• er/sie/es lässt (he/she/it lets)
• wir lassen (we let)
• ihr lasst (you all let - informal)
• sie/Sie lassen (they/you let - formal)

Practice these conjugations to become familiar with how "lassen" changes depending on the subject.

Step 3: Using Lassen to Let Someone Do Something

When you want to express that you allow someone to do something, use "lassen" in the following structure:

• Structure: Subject + lassen + object + verb (infinitive)

Example Sentences

• Ich lasse dich gehen. (I let you go.)
• Er lässt mich arbeiten. (He lets me work.)

This structure is useful for conveying permission.

Step 4: Allowing or Letting

"Lassen" can also mean to allow or permit.

Example Sentences

• Du darfst das Auto fahren, ich lasse es zu. (You may drive the car, I allow it.)
• Wir lassen sie nicht warten. (We do not let her wait.)

This use emphasizes granting permission.

Step 5: Leaving Something Behind

To express leaving something behind, use "lassen" in a different structure:

• Structure: Subject + lassen + object

Example Sentences

• Ich lasse meine Schlüssel auf dem Tisch. (I leave my keys on the table.)
• Sie lässt ihre Tasche im Auto. (She leaves her bag in the car.)

This indicates that something is intentionally left.

Step 6: Making a Suggestion

When using "lassen" to make a suggestion, you can frame it like this:

• Example: Lass uns ins Kino gehen. (Let's go to the cinema.)

This form is often used in conversational German to propose ideas.

Step 7: Stopping an Action

To indicate stopping an action, you can use "lassen" in the following way:

• Example: Ich lasse das Rauchen. (I stop smoking.)

This is a common way to express the decision to stop a habit.

Step 8: Using Lassen in Passive Forms

"Lassen" can also serve as a substitute in passive constructions.

• Example: Das Buch lässt sich leicht lesen. (The book is easy to read.)

This usage helps convey passive meanings without directly using passive voice.

Conclusion

In summary, "lassen" is a versatile German verb that can express permission, agency, suggestions, and passive meanings. Practicing its conjugation and various contexts will enhance your German language skills significantly. Consider creating sentences using "lassen" in each of the contexts discussed to reinforce your learning. For further practice, explore additional resources or worksheets related to "lassen."