sollen — meaning in English: should

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for must

sollen

besser

hause

ohne

ach

Skip this question

🎓

Learn German for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use 'sollen' when giving advice or expressing an obligation, such as telling a friend they should visit a doctor if they're feeling unwell. It's also common in formal settings, like a teacher advising students on what they should do to prepare for an exam.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym of 'sollen' is 'müssen', which translates to 'must' in English. While 'sollen' often suggests a recommendation or advice, 'müssen' conveys a stronger sense of obligation, implying that there is no choice in the matter.

Culture

'Sollen' has its roots in the Old High German word 'soln', reflecting a long tradition of expressing obligation in Germanic languages. Interestingly, it mirrors the way English speakers use 'should' to indicate recommendations or expectations, making it a bridge between languages for learners.

FAQ

Q.What does 'sollen' mean in German?

'Sollen' translates to 'should' in English, indicating an obligation or recommendation in various contexts.

Q.How do I conjugate 'sollen'?

'Sollen' is an irregular verb. Its conjugation in the present tense is: ich soll, du sollst, er/sie/es soll, wir sollen, ihr sollt, sie/Sie sollen.

Q.Can 'sollen' be used in the past tense?

Yes, 'sollen' can be used in the past tense as 'sollte'. For example, 'Ich sollte lernen' means 'I should have studied.'

Learn german with Maspeak →

German 500