How to Say ‘To happen’ in German
Passieren
pah-seer-en
[pah-seer-en]
💬 Usage Tip: Can mean „to happen“: „Was ist passiert?“ It also has other meanings in different contexts, like passing by or straining food—one word, many jobs.
🇩🇪 In Germany: „Was ist passiert?“ is one of the most useful phrases in German for daily life, from small accidents to dramatic TV scenes.
Phrase Breakdown
Passieren
[pah-seer-en]
To happen
To take place, especially by chance.
Was wird passieren, wenn wir die Fernbedienung verlieren?
What will happen if we lose the remote control?
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Berlin bureaucracy requires real German. This app got me from zero to handling my Anmeldung appointment in three weeks. My coworkers couldn’t believe it.”
Emma L., 27, UX Researcher
“Relocated to Munich with my family. The everyday scenarios — grocery shopping, doctor visits, school meetings — are exactly what we needed to settle in.”
Marcus J., 40, Engineer
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager