Basic German Words with Meaning for International Students in Germany

Many German universities offer programs in English, but knowing the German language promotes your social success, career opportunities, and makes everyday life in Germany smoother. Beyond practical benefits, learning German will also help you connect with the local culture and community, making your stay in Germany more fulfilling. 

Here are a few significant reasons to learn German:

Better Academic Experience

Many top German universities offer courses and resources in German. Even if the program you have chosen is in English, knowing German will help you engage more fully in classroom discussions and access a wider range of academic materials and support services. 

Part-Time Work Opportunities

As an international student in Germany, knowing German will also help you access several part-time job opportunities, like cashier, sales associate, server, and private tutor. All of which will require knowledge of the language.

Easier Daily Life 

Knowing German makes everyday activities like shopping, using public transportation, and handling administrative tasks much easier. It will also help you connect better with the local community and make new acquaintances as an international student in Germany. 

Access to Scholarships and Special Programs

Some scholarships and university programs give preference or require German language skills. Having German proficiency broadens your opportunities for financial aid and academic advancement.

German has the 26 English alphabet plus Ä, Ö, Ü, and ß. Umlauts change pronunciation and meaning, so “schon” (already) and “schön” (beautiful) are two different words.

Here’s a list of the 26 German alphabet and their English correspondents: 

Another fundamental aspect of any language is number, which is essential for any sort of communication. From buying groceries to filling forms, here is a list of the names of the German numbers from 0 to 10: 

To communicate in German, you must be acquainted with some of the basic German phrases and expressions of greetings, even as you are in the process of learning. These phrases are significant for day-to-day functioning and a part of regular communication. Instead of memorising 200 words, start with survival phrases.

Here are some of the basic German phrases and their meanings:

To learn German as an international student, you need the right mix of structure, daily exposure, and cultural awareness. To become fluent in German, Indian students usually take 6 to 9 months (A1 to A2). Many Indian students emphasize consistency, smart tools, and starting simple. 

Here are practical steps that can guide you learn German from zero to fluency:

Start with Basics (A1 to A2)

Begin with apps like Duolingo, Memrise, or YouTube tutorials. Focus on simple greetings, numbers, and daily expressions to build a solid foundation.

Watch German Media

Watch German TV shows and YouTube channels with subtitles, then switch to German-only content. Listening daily helps your brain adjust to the sounds of the language.

Practice Speaking Early

Use language exchange apps such as Tandem or HelloTalk to talk to native speakers. Even short, simple conversations boost confidence and reduce hesitation.

Use Smart Tools

Flashcard apps like Anki or Quizlet make memorizing vocabulary easier. Online dictionaries and grammar tools such as Dict.cc or Reverso are highly recommended by learners.

Join Language Courses

Enroll in Goethe-Institut courses for step-by-step learning. Structured classes prepare you for official exams and provide discipline if you struggle with self-study.

Stay Consistent with Goals

Set small weekly targets, such as learning 50 words or practicing 10 minutes of speaking. Regular short sessions are more effective than irregular long ones.

Understand Cultural Nuances

Learn formal versus informal speech like “Sie” and “du.” Understanding German punctuality and directness helps you integrate socially while learning.

As an international student in Germany, you should know some German. Whether you are a beginner or have some prior knowledge, using the right resources can make learning German more efficient, enjoyable, and effective. Apps like Duolingo won’t make you fluent. Pair them with real-world practice, like ordering food at a restaurant. 

Here are some of the resources that you can use to advance your German learning:

Goethe-Institut

Goethe-Institut offers highly respected paid and free courses for all levels and requirements. It is trusted worldwide by various universities. You will find them across major Indian cities, like Max Mueller Bhavan in Kolkata, Mumbai, and Delhi. 

German.net

This is one of the best online websites, with a comprehensive collection of learning materials including vocabulary lists, grammar guides, and quizzes. 

Duolingo

You can also use Duolingo for free, fun, and effective lessons. The app also has game-like features, which make the learning process easy. It is best for beginners and casual learners who want to build vocabulary and get basic grammar practice.

Learn German Original

This is a free online website that offers courses for A1to B1 levels. The website features a huge collection of vocabulary and grammar resources, well-suited to Indian learners.

deutsch.info

Deutsch.info is also a free multilingual language teaching website which offers courses in grammar, with the use of games, and AV materials covering life in Germany and Austria. 

Indian students often face specific challenges when learning German vocabulary due to differences between their native languages and English. Understanding these common mistakes will help you avoid them and improve your language skills more effectively. Here are a few common mistakes that you should avoid as a beginner: 

• Articles confusion (der, die, das): Hindi or Tamil don’t use gendered articles, making this tough for Indian students.
• False friends: “Gift” means “present” in English but “poison” in German.
• Literal translations: Directly translating “I am 20 years old” leads to errors. In German, it’s Ich bin 20 Jahre alt.
• Word order: Verbs often come at the end of subordinate clauses. Indians tend to follow English order, leading to errors.

If you are a beginner, it might be a little difficult to get the hang of the German language. Practise consistently, set clear goals, and gather the right resources to improve your efficiency in the language. Here are a few tips you can follow to improve your German learning:

• Start with daily-use phrases, not grammar books.

• Consume German media: Podcasts, films, and news for natural exposure (search for the “Easy German Podcast” on Spotify, and “Super Easy German” on YouTube)
• Join university language programs: Often subsidised or free for students. aSearch for a local "Stammtisch" (chat group for native speakers and learners).
• Practice with locals: Chat to the staff in your local shops and cafés. Simple things to start with, and if you have to prepare something to say before going in, that's alright to start with.

Learning German is not only useful for your academics, but also for your career. If you can network with professionals in their native tongue, your chances of landing a good job will increase. Working will get much easier in German-speaking countries like Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, or even with German MNC collaborations. Want to take it ahead?

Connect with Yocket’s expert advisors. Germany is our second most popular study abroad destination, and we’ve helped thousands of students get into the best German universities. Connect with us now!