One of the most common points of confusion for German learners is negation. Should you use "kein" or "nicht"? Both translate as "no" or "not" in English — but their rules of use are clearly separated, and the rule is actually quite simple.
Golden rule: kein = goes before a noun (replaces the article). nicht = negates a verb, adjective or adverb.
Compare Them Side by Side
- Noun + indefinite article (ein → kein)
- Uncountable nouns (Geld, Zeit, Wasser)
- Plural nouns without an article
- To negate verbs
- With adjectives and adverbs
- Before definite article + noun
Positive → Negative: Side-by-Side Examples
Kein Declension (Like an Article)
kein is declined just like the indefinite article ein. Its form changes depending on gender and case:
| Case | Masculine (der) | Feminine (die) | Neuter (das) | Plural (die) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nominative | kein | keine | kein | keine |
| Accusative | keinen | keine | kein | keine |
| Dative | keinem | keiner | keinem | keinen |
⚠️ Watch out: When a noun has a definite article (der Mann, die Frau, das Buch), use nicht, not kein: Ich kenne den Mann nicht. — Not Ich kenne keinen Mann!
Position of Nicht in the Sentence
Where nicht sits in a sentence matters:
- At the end (general negation): Ich komme heute nicht.
- Before a separable prefix: Ich stehe heute nicht auf.
- Before an adjective/adverb: Das ist nicht schön.
- Before a definite noun: Das ist nicht der Lehrer.
- Before the infinitive with modals: Ich kann das nicht machen.
Quick Test
If there is "ein/eine/— (no article)" → use kein. If there is a verb or adjective → use nicht.
Nicht Usually Goes Last
When in doubt, put nicht at the end of the sentence. It will be correct most of the time and you'll be understood.
Memorise Daily Phrases
"Ich weiß nicht. / Ich habe keine Zeit. / Das stimmt nicht." — These 3 phrases cover a huge portion of everyday conversation.
Transformation Practice
Make positive sentences and then write their negative versions. This is the most effective exercise for getting negation right.
Test Yourself
kein or nicht? Find the correct answer:
Practice Negation with Games
Reinforce kein and nicht usage in real dialogues with DeutschGo's AI conversation practice. Your mistakes are corrected instantly.
Download on App Store — Free