Nominalization
German often turns verbs and adjectives into nouns to create a more formal written style.
Examples
GermanTranslation
Nach dem Lesen besprechen wir die Hauptidee.
After the reading, we discuss the main idea.
Beim Schreiben hört sie leise Musik.
While writing, she listens to soft music.
Die Entscheidung fiel sehr schnell.
The decision was made very quickly.
Pattern
nominalized form + article/preposition
How it works
German often turns verbs and adjectives into nouns to create a more formal written style. This pattern typically appears as nominalized form + article/preposition and becomes easier when you meet it again in short, readable examples.
What to notice
- Nominalizations are often capitalized because they behave like nouns.
- They can make a sentence denser and more formal.
Why it matters
German written style often packs more meaning into fewer clauses.
Use in context
Nominal style becomes especially visible in academic, professional, and official German.