Es ist ein großer schwarzer Koffer mit kleinen Rädern.
It's a large black suitcase with small wheels.
Why does this start with Es instead of Er to go with masculine Koffer?
Correct Pronoun?
Muchen7092
March 18, 2019
Why does this start with Es instead of Er to go with masculine Koffer?
Liss-Rocket-Languages-Tutor
March 19, 2019
Hallo 70Augsburg!
Excellent question!
The reason why we use the neuter es here instead of the masculine er is because we're talking about an abstract thing. This sentence could serve as the answer to the question: "What is that on the floor?" We answer that es, that unknown thing on the floor, is a large black suitcase with small wheels.
Speaking more generally, es is a preliminary or dummy subject - we can use it whenever the identity of the subject is not known or not relevant. That is why we have phrases like Es regnet "It rains" or Es gibt Eis zum Nachtisch "There is ice cream for dessert."
I hope that this answers your question!
Viel Spaß!
Liss
Excellent question!
The reason why we use the neuter es here instead of the masculine er is because we're talking about an abstract thing. This sentence could serve as the answer to the question: "What is that on the floor?" We answer that es, that unknown thing on the floor, is a large black suitcase with small wheels.
Speaking more generally, es is a preliminary or dummy subject - we can use it whenever the identity of the subject is not known or not relevant. That is why we have phrases like Es regnet "It rains" or Es gibt Eis zum Nachtisch "There is ice cream for dessert."
I hope that this answers your question!
Viel Spaß!
Liss
Want to post a comment? Just take a free Rocket Languages trial
Select one of the languages below and sign up in 60 seconds. Join our user forum and experience Rocket Languages for yourself!
Most Popular Articles
Top 10 German hacks
Whether you've been studying German for years or are considering giving German a try, the following 10 hacks and simple tricks can help you to learn German fast and effectively.
How Long Does It Take To Learn German
Learning a language is a complex process that is different for each individual based on several different factors. Let's take a look at these different factors and how they impact how fast you learn German.
Let's get you talking in German.We love German people and German culture - from magical Christmas markets and hearty dishes to fairy-tale castles and gorgeous mountain trails! And there's no better way to connect with them than by learning Deutsch.