pleasure / liking
das Gefallen
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to take pleasure in
To find something pleasant, beautiful, or good and consequently develop an interest in or enjoyment of it.
Die Kinder fanden großen Gefallen an dem neuen Spiel.
The children took great pleasure in the new game.
| gender | neuter das |
|---|---|
| genitive | des Gefallens |
| singular | plural | |
|---|---|---|
| nominative | das Gefallen | – |
| accusative | das Gefallen | – |
| dative | dem Gefallen | – |
| genitive | des Gefallens | – |
The article changes with the case; it is shown in colour.
In the meaning of 'pleasure in something', 'Gefallen' is neuter and has no plural; it usually appears without an article in 'Gefallen an etwas finden' (to take pleasure in something). 'Der Gefallen' with the masculine article is a different word and refers to a favor or a helpful act.
Seit dem ersten Training findet er großen Gefallen an dieser Sportart.
Since his first training session, he has taken great pleasure in this sport.
An dem langen Vortrag fand kaum jemand Gefallen.
Hardly anyone took pleasure in the long lecture.
In this meaning, 'Gefallen finden' (to take pleasure) is often used with 'an' and the dative. The thing or activity that sparks interest or enjoyment follows.
Die Jugendlichen fanden an dem ungewöhnlichen Workshop schnell Gefallen.
The young people quickly took pleasure in the unusual workshop.
