Präpositionen mit Genitiv
Genitivpräpositionen — for English Speakers
Introduction
German has a set of prepositions that demand the genitive case: anhand (based on), infolge (as a result of), mangels (for lack of), mittels (by means of), laut (according to). These are used in formal writing and professional contexts. English equivalents exist but never trigger case changes. Mastering these prepositions elevates your German from conversational to professional register.
German vs English
In German
Anhand der Ergebnisse (based on the results)
In English
Based on the results
Key Difference
Same meaning — German requires genitive marking; English requires nothing extra.
In German
Mangels Beweisen (for lack of evidence)
In English
For lack of evidence
Key Difference
Direct conceptual match; German uses genitive plural after 'mangels'.
Common Mistakes for English Speakers
Anhand die Ergebnisse können wir entscheiden.
Using nominative/accusative 'die' — anhand requires genitive 'der' for feminine/plural.
Infolge von dem Unfall.
Adding 'von + dative' — infolge directly takes the genitive, no 'von' needed.
Practice Examples
Laut des Berichts steigen die Preise.
According to the report, prices are rising.
Infolge des Unwetters fiel der Strom aus.
As a result of the storm, the power went out.
Mittels neuer Technologien können wir das lösen.
By means of new technologies, we can solve that.
Memory Tip
Genitive prepositions are the 'formal squad' — they show up in reports and contracts. Learn the top 10 and you're set.
View Grammar Rule
Präpositionen mit Genitiv
Genitivpräpositionen — B2
Practice Exercises
Präpositionen mit Genitiv Übungen
8 exercises
Other Languages
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