In German
neben
Meaning: next to, beside
Example sentences
SetzdichnebendenMann.
Sit down next to the man.
SiesitztnebendemMann.
She sits next to the man.
NebendemHausstehteinBaum.
Next to the house stands a tree.
Grammar note
“Neben” is two-way: Akkusativ when you move into a position next to something, Dativ when you're already there.
Common mistake
Don't confuse “neben” (next to) with “zwischen” (between, which needs two reference points). “Neben dem Haus” is next to one house; “zwischen den Häusern” is between (at least) two.
Quick check
Which preposition means “next to”?
More words on this topic
Keep learning German
Practise it in a lesson →Frequently asked questions
How is “neben” different from “zwischen”?
“Neben” needs one reference point (next to it), “zwischen” needs two (between them).
Does “neben” take Akkusativ or Dativ?
Both — Akkusativ for movement into position, Dativ for already being there.