01
neben
next to
Indicates a position directly at the side of something (where?). Used with the dative.
example
Die Apotheke ist direkt neben der Post.
The pharmacy is right next to the post office.
neben
next to / besides
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Two-way preposition
In its spatial meaning, 'neben' (next to) is a two-way preposition. The question 'Wo?' (where?) takes the dative, while the question 'Wohin?' (to where?) takes the accusative.
EXAMPLE
Dein Schlüssel liegt neben dem Buch. (Wo? -> Dativ)
Your key is lying next to the book. (Where? -> dative)
Grammar note
While the spatial meaning of 'neben' (next to) can take the dative or accusative, the figurative meanings 'zusätzlich zu' (in addition to) and 'im Vergleich zu' (compared to) always require the dative.
EXAMPLE
Neben dem Studium hat er keine Zeit für Hobbys.
Besides his studies, he has no time for hobbies.
Typical use
In the meaning 'zusätzlich zu' (in addition to), 'neben' (besides) often introduces a secondary thought or additional information. It frequently appears at the beginning of a sentence, followed by the dative.
EXAMPLE
Neben Deutsch spricht sie auch fließend Spanisch und Englisch.
Besides German, she also speaks fluent Spanish and English.
Colloquial expression
The idiom 'neben der Spur sein' (to be out of it) is colloquial. It means that someone is unfocused, confused, or not in their normal form.
EXAMPLE
Ich habe schlecht geschlafen und bin heute total neben der Spur.
I slept badly and am totally out of it today.
Use as comparison
When 'neben' (compared to) expresses a comparison, it places two things in relation to each other. It is often used to emphasize a strong contrast.
EXAMPLE
Neben seiner riesigen Villa sieht unser Haus winzig aus.
Compared to his huge villa, our house looks tiny.
Compare with
neben vs an
at / on
'an' and 'neben' both describe nearness to something. 'an' is used when something is on or at a surface, edge, or boundary, often with contact. 'neben' means that something is directly at the side of something else. There does not have to be contact. Learners confuse the words because both describe a position nearby. In practical terms: a picture hangs 'an der Wand' (on the wall), but a chair stands 'neben dem Tisch' (next to the table).
neben
Nach dem Gespräch stellt sie den Stuhl neben den Schreibtisch.
After the conversation, she puts the chair next to the desk.
an
Die Notiz hängt an der Tür des Büros.
The note is hanging on the office door.
In real life
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