German Modal Verbs: How to Use “Sollen” and “Dürfen” (A1 Guide)
In German, modal verbs help you express what you can, must, should, or are allowed to do. They are very important for everyday conversations. Today, we will learn two very common modal verbs: sollen and dürfen.
1. Sollen (Should / Ought to)
We use sollen when someone gives us advice, a task, or an obligation.
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Meaning: Should / Supposed to
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Example 1: “Du sollst früher kommen.” (You should come earlier.)
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Example 2: “Wir sollen später gehen.” (We are supposed to go later.)
2. Dürfen (May / To be allowed to)
We use dürfen when we talk about permission or rules. It answers the question: Am I allowed to do this?
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Meaning: May / Can (with permission)
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Example 1: “Du darfst hier parken.” (You may park here. / You are allowed to park here.)
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Example 2: “Wir dürfen das machen.” (We can do that. / We have permission to do that.)
A1 Grammar Tip: Word Order (Wortstellung)
When you use a modal verb, it takes the position 2 in the sentence. The second verb goes all the way to the end of the sentence in its basic form (infinitive).
Structure: Subject + Modal Verb + … + Infinitive Verb
Example: Du darfst hier parken.
Simple Cheat Sheet
| German Verb | English Meaning | When to use it? |
| sollen | should | Advice / Duty |
| dürfen | may / allowed to | Permission / Rules |
Practice Sentences for Beginners
Try to say these aloud:
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Hier darf man nicht rauchen. (You are not allowed to smoke here.)
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Was soll ich machen? (What should I do?)
With these two verbs, your German will instantly sound more natural!