Ergänzen Sie: « Die Katze liegt auf _____ Tisch. » (location)

Question

Accepted Answer

dem. The correct answer is "dem" because "auf" is a two-way preposition (Wechselpräposition) that takes the dative case when indicating location (where something is) rather than direction (where something is going). Since the cat is lying on the table (static location), the dative is required, and "Tisch" is masculine, giving "dem."

"Den" is the accusative masculine form, which would be used with "auf" when indicating direction or motion toward the table (e.g., "Die Katze springt auf den Tisch"  -  the cat jumps onto the table). "Der" is the nominative masculine or dative feminine form, but "Tisch" is masculine and in the dative after a location preposition, requiring "dem." "Das" is the nominative/accusative neuter form, which does not match the masculine gender of "Tisch."

Two-way prepositions (Wechselpräpositionen) are among the most important grammar topics on the CLEP German Level 1 exam. The nine two-way prepositions are: an, auf, hinter, in, neben, über, unter, vor, zwischen. The rule is: dative for location (wo?  -  where?), accusative for direction (wohin?  -  where to?). The verb often provides the clue: "liegen" (to lie) implies location/dative, while "legen" (to lay/put) implies direction/accusative.

CLEP German Language (Level 1 and 2): Question of the Day

Get a free CLEP German Language (Level 1 and 2) question every day

Ready for the full CLEP German Language (Level 1 and 2)? Earn 6 college credits.