In German

I

Meaning: the letter I, pronounced "ee"

Example sentences

  • IwieInsel.

    I as in Insel (island).

  • DieInselistklein.

    The island is small.

Grammar note

German “I” is always a clear “ee” sound (as in “see”), whether short (“ist”, is) or long (“ihm”, to him) — never the English “eye” sound.

Common mistake

Don't say the English letter name “eye” — German “I” is always “ee”, short or long depending on the word, but never a diphthong.

Quick check

Which letter is pronounced “ee” in German?

More words on this topic

Ethe letter E, pronounced "ay"Üthe letter Ü (umlaut-U), a rounded vowel not found in English

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Frequently asked questions

Does German “I” ever sound like English “eye”?

No — it's always an “ee” sound, short or long.

What word is used to demonstrate “I”?

“Insel” (island).