When do I need to use 'sein' as the auxiliary verb in the past perfect tense?

Generally, we conjugate the verb 'sein' for any verb that indicates i) movement ii) or a change in state.For example i) gehen = to go and suggests an act of movement therefore we would have to conjugate the sein auxiliary and use with the past participle which is gegangen. Hence, 'I went' = Ich bin gegangen. (Bin being the conjugated form of sein for the subject ich)One thing to be aware of is that verbs that indicate a lack of movement also take sein. eg. bleiben = to stay. Hence, 'I stayed at home' = Ich bin zu Hause gebliebenii) Verbs that suggest a change in state could include einfrieren (to freeze), schmelzen (to melt) schalfen (to sleep) aufwachen (to wake up). Any verbs that mean something/someone has transformed from one state to another. eg. 'I woke up' = Ich bin aufgewachen.

MS
Answered by Monique S. German tutor

7830 Views

See similar German A Level tutors

Related German A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why is it "Ich gehe mit DEM Freund aus" and not "Ich gehe mit DER Freund aus?"


Translate the following: 'If scientists had enough money they would soon discover new solutions.'


In an interview, a local politician has claimed "Sportunterricht ist überbewertet und zu teuer. Wir sollten ihn streichen." You are trying to change his mind. Write a short statement!


Can you explain adjective endings to me?


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning