What is the difference between the sein-passive and the werden-passive?

Both the sein-passive and the werden-passive use a past participle. However the sein-passive uses the past participle as an adjective. For example; Die Wiese ist mit Blumen bedeckt translates as 'the meadow is covered in flowers.' 'Bedeckt' meaning 'covered' is used as an adjective, describing the noun 'Blumen.' When using the werden-passive, the past participle has a different function. The sentence 'Die Wiese wird mit Blumen bedeckt' means 'the meadow is being covered with flowers', using the present passive. Therefore the werden-passive describes an action taking place which affects the meadow, whereas the sein-passive merely describes its state.

Answered by Hannah J. German tutor

5915 Views

See similar German A Level tutors

Related German A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do I answer a question such as 'Wie feiern Sie Weihnachten?' in the speaking exam?


What is the point of cases in German? What is the difference between them?


How do I know if a word needs a preposition and if so how can I tell which one to use?


Making up two example scenarios, explain how the subjunctive mood (Konjunktiv II) changes the meaning of the conjunction "wenn".


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences