What is the difference between the sein-passive and the werden-passive?

Both the sein-passive and the werden-passive use a past participle. However the sein-passive uses the past participle as an adjective. For example; Die Wiese ist mit Blumen bedeckt translates as 'the meadow is covered in flowers.' 'Bedeckt' meaning 'covered' is used as an adjective, describing the noun 'Blumen.' When using the werden-passive, the past participle has a different function. The sentence 'Die Wiese wird mit Blumen bedeckt' means 'the meadow is being covered with flowers', using the present passive. Therefore the werden-passive describes an action taking place which affects the meadow, whereas the sein-passive merely describes its state.

HJ
Answered by Hannah J. German tutor

6753 Views

See similar German A Level tutors

Related German A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why do I sometimes say 'ich fahre in der Stadt' and other times 'ich fahre in die Stadt'? What is the difference and why is there one?


Translate the following sentence into good German : "I wanted to go with them, but unfortunately, I was ill."


Convert the German phrase Die Polizei verhaftet einen Mann to passive


How can I improve my vocabulary?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning