In German
öffnen
Meaning: to open
Formal or informal? “Öffnen” is the verb to open. The adjective “offen” means open, as in “das Fenster ist offen” (the window is open).
Example sentences
Kannst du bitte das Fenster öffnen?
Can you open the window, please?
Der Laden öffnet um neun Uhr.
The shop opens at nine.
Ich öffne die Tür.
I open the door.
Grammar note
Present tense: ich öffne, du öffnest, er öffnet, wir öffnen. The verb stem ends in -n, so an e is added before the -st and -t endings.
Common mistake
Don't confuse the verb “öffnen” with the adjective “offen”. Use “öffnen” for the action (to open) and “offen” for the state (open).
Quick check
Which form is correct for “he opens” (er)?
More words on this topic
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Practise it in a lesson →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between “öffnen” and “offen”?
“Öffnen” is the action to open, while “offen” describes a state: it is open.
Why is it “du öffnest” with an extra e?
The stem ends in -n, so an e is added before -st to make it pronounceable.