The Functions of werden
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Distinguish werden as a full verb, a passive auxiliary, and part of Futur I. Learn why its perfect form is sometimes geworden and sometimes worden.
Explanation
Three functions of werden
German werden can perform three different jobs. The words that accompany it reveal the function.
| Function | Pattern | Example | Meaning |
|---|
| Change | werden + noun/adjective | Der Himmel wird dunkel. | A new state develops. |
| Event passive | werden + past participle | Die Tür wird repariert. | An action happens to the subject. |
| Futur I / assumption | werden + infinitive | Mia wird später anrufen. | Future or assumption. |
Change
As a full verb, werden links the subject to a noun or adjective: Amir wird Vater. Die Suppe wird kalt. Its perfect uses sein + geworden: Die Suppe ist kalt geworden.
Event passive
The passive focuses on an action and uses werden + past participle: Die Pakete werden heute abgeholt. Its perfect uses sein + past participle + worden: Die Pakete sind heute abgeholt worden. Use worden, not geworden.
Futur I and assumptions
werden + infinitive can express the future or an assumption: Der Kurs wird im September beginnen. Leon wird wohl noch arbeiten. The infinitive goes at the end. German often uses the present tense with a time expression for fixed plans.
How to identify the function
- An infinitive at the end signals Futur I or an assumption.
- A past participle describing an action done to the subject signals the passive.
- A noun or adjective describing a new state signals change.
geworden or worden?
| Meaning | Perfect form | Example |
|---|
| Change | sein + geworden | Das Kind ist müde geworden. |
| Passive | sein + past participle + worden | Das Kind ist untersucht worden. |
Remember: geworden marks a change of state; worden belongs to the passive.
Exercises
- Sort the sentences by the function of werden: change, passive, or future/assumption. (2)
- Insert the correct form from the word bank. Pay attention to the subject, function, and tense. (10)
- Rewrite the sentence in the perfect. Choose between geworden and worden. (11)
- Read the connected text and fill each gap with a suitable form from the word bank. Forms may be used more than once. (3)
B1 · German · Grammar