SeinVerbenfor

SeinVerbenfor is a coined term used in linguistic discussions to designate the paradigm of the verb sein (to be) in German and closely related Germanic languages. The term is a compound formed from sein, Verben (verbs), and form, and is employed to refer to the full set of finite and nonfinite forms that the verb sein can take across different tenses, moods, voices, and persons. It functions as a focal point for analyzing how the core copular verb integrates with tense, aspect, and agreement systems.

Finite forms and key derivatives. In modern German, the Sein-Verbenfor includes the present indicative forms ich bin, du bist, er ist, wir sind, ihr seid, sie sind. The preterite yields ich war, du warst, er war, wir waren, ihr wart, sie waren. The present perfect and other perfect constructions use sein as an auxiliary in combination with gewesen (e.g., ich bin gewesen). Subjunctive forms include ich sei, du sei(st), er sei, wir seien, ihr seiet, sie seien, as well as Konjunktiv II forms wie ich wäre, du wärst, er wäre, wir wären, ihr wärt, sie wären. The imperative has forms sei, seid, seien. In periphrastic future constructions, sein appears with werden (ich werde sein).

Function and usage. SeinVerbenfor is primarily of interest in grammar and history of language studies, illustrating how the verb to be behaves as a main verb, an auxiliary, and a copula across constructions. It also helps in teaching German conjugation by providing a consolidated view of all relevant be-forms, their irregularities, and their interrelations with other verbal forms.

See also. Sein; German grammar; German conjugation; auxiliary verbs; Konjunktiv.