das bin ich
The English phrase "this is me" is translated into German as das bin ich.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "that am I". In this construction, das acts as a demonstrative pronoun and ich is the subject of the verb.
How does it change in a sentence?
When using this phrase, the verb sein (to be) must be conjugated to match the subject ich (I). This results in the form bin rather than ist.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly use the accusative case mich instead of the nominative ich after the verb sein.
Did you know?
Examples in context
- Das bin ich beim Essen einer Banane.This is me eating a banana.This sentence is useful for identifying yourself while performing an action, such as eating.Tatoeba #5504520 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #1098570 by cntrational
- Das bin ich.This is me.This sentence is a simple way to identify yourself.Tatoeba #3812389 by brauchinet, translation #3812012 by CM
- Entschuldigen Sie, das bin ich. Ich bin der neue Mitarbeiter, auf den Sie gewartet haben.Excuse me, this is me. I am the new employee you were expecting.
- Hey! Schau mal, das bin ich auf dem Konzert, von dem wir gesprochen haben.Hey! Look, this is me at the concert we talked about.
- Das bin ich auf dem Foto.That is me in the photo.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Maximilian and Laura are looking at an old photo album.
- MaximilianSiehst du das kleine Kind hier?Do you see the small child here?
- LauraJa, wer ist das?Yes, who is that?
- MaximilianDas bin ich.That is me.
- LauraDu warst ja ein süßes Kind!You were such a cute child!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bin, das, ich, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
