Explanation
Formation and Usage of Futur I
The Futur I is primarily used to describe future events, intentions, or promises. Unlike English, German speakers often use the present tense for events in the near future if there is a time indicator (like 'morgen' or 'nächste Woche'). However, Futur I is essential for formal contexts, long-term predictions, or when you want to emphasize a strong intention.
Sentence Structure
To form the Futur I, you need two components: the conjugated auxiliary verb werden in the second position (or after the subject in questions) and the infinitive of the main verb at the very end of the sentence. This structure follows the typical German 'verb bracket' (Satzklammer) where the conjugated part and the infinitive frame the rest of the information.
Making Assumptions and Guesses
Beyond talking about the future, Futur I is frequently used to make assumptions about the present or the future. For example, 'Er wird wohl zu Hause sein' (He is probably at home). In this context, it often appears with particles like wohl, bestimmt, or sicher to indicate the degree of probability. For B1 learners, distinguishing between a future plan and an assumption is a key milestone.
Reference Tables
| Person | Form | Example |
|---|---|---|
| ich | werde | Ich werde forschen. |
| du | wirst | Du wirst mitlaufen. |
| er/sie/es | wird | Er wird abbremsen. |
| wir | werden | Wir werden zusammenziehen. |
| ihr | werdet | Ihr werdet ausmalen. |
| sie/Sie | werden | Sie werden exportieren. |
Examples
Wir werden nächsten Monat in die neue Wohnung zusammenziehen.
We will move into the new apartment together next month.
Die Wissenschaftler werden jahrelang an diesem Projekt forschen.
The scientists will research this project for years.
Das Model wird für den berühmten Fotografen posieren.
The model will pose for the famous photographer.
Ich werde dir helfen und diese schweren Koffer schleppen.
I will help you and drag these heavy suitcases.
Der Bäcker wird den Teig heute Abend kneten.
The baker will knead the dough this evening.
Common Mistakes
The main verb must be in the infinitive form, not conjugated, and you should not repeat the auxiliary verb.
In German, the infinitive must always be placed at the very end of the sentence.
Learners often confuse 'will' (from 'wollen' - to want) with the English future 'will'. In German, 'werden' is the correct auxiliary for the future.