German Relative Clauses in the Dative Case
In the dative, the relative pronoun looks a little different from the article, and that is the one thing to memorise. This lesson explains the Relativsatz im Dativ and the Relativpronomen im Dativ. Note that the video itself is explained entirely in German.
When Do You Need the Dative?
The pronoun takes its case from its role in the relative clause. If the verb in that clause takes a dative object (for example helfen, gehƶren, danken) or the pronoun is the indirect object, use the dative.
The Relative Pronouns in the Dative
- masculine: dem
- feminine: der
- neuter: dem
- plural: denen
Careful: the plural is denen, not den.
Example Sentences
- Der Mann, dem ich helfe, ist alt.
- Die Frau, der ich das Buch gebe, ist meine Lehrerin.
- Das Kind, dem ich ein Spielzeug schenke, freut sich.
- Die Kinder, denen ich helfe, sind dankbar.
As always, the relative clause is set off with commas and the conjugated verb goes to the end.
Watch These First
If the structure of a relative clause is new to you, first read the lessons on the nominative and the accusative. To review the case itself, read What is Dativ? and the list of B1 dative verbs. For clauses with prepositions, see Relative Clauses WITH Prepositions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the relative pronouns in the dative?
dem (masculine), der (feminine), dem (neuter) and denen (plural).
When do I use a dative relative pronoun?
When the pronoun is the dative object in its clause, typically after dative verbs like helfen or as an indirect object.
Which relative pronoun is different from the definite article?
The plural: denen instead of den. The other dative forms match the articles.
Where does the verb go?
At the end of the relative clause.
Is this lesson in English?
No. The video is explained entirely in German, so it suits learners who want to practise listening at B1 level.
Looking for structured B1 practice? Our B1 German course is built for exactly that.
