01
stattfinden
to take place
To occur; to happen or be held as planned.
example
Das Konzert findet morgen Abend im Stadion statt.
The concert is taking place tomorrow evening in the stadium.
stattfinden
to take place
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Meanings
Usage tips
Separable verb
'Stattfinden' (to take place) is a separable verb. The prefix 'statt' comes at the end in a main clause. In a subordinate clause and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Die Konferenz findet in Berlin statt.
The conference is taking place in Berlin.
Word structure
The word is made up of 'statt' and 'finden' (to find). Literally, it means that an event 'finds' its planned 'place' and therefore happens.
EXAMPLE
Trotz des Regens fand das Spiel wie geplant statt.
Despite the rain, the game took place as planned.
Sentence structure: the subject
The subject of 'stattfinden' (to take place) is always the event, the organized event, or the action itself. A person cannot be the subject of this verb.
EXAMPLE
Die Prüfung findet nächste Woche statt.
The exam is taking place next week.
Typical subjects
Common subjects for 'stattfinden' (to take place) are planned events such as 'ein Konzert' (a concert), 'eine Besprechung' (a meeting), 'ein Kurs' (a course), 'eine Wahl' (an election), or 'ein Festival' (a festival).
EXAMPLE
Der wöchentliche Markt findet immer samstags statt.
The weekly market always takes place on Saturdays.
Compare with
stattfinden vs spielen
to play
'spielen' and 'stattfinden' can both be connected with a place or time, but they are used for different things. Use 'spielen' for the plot of a film, book, or play: you say where or when the story is set. Use 'stattfinden' for events, appointments, or organized activities that really happen or are planned. Learners may confuse the words because both answer questions like 'where?' or 'when?'. Remember: a story 'spielt' in a place; a course or meeting 'findet dort statt' (takes place there).
stattfinden
Das Treffen findet morgen in der Bibliothek statt.
The meeting is taking place tomorrow in the library.
spielen
Der Roman spielt im Sommer in einem kleinen Dorf.
The novel is set in a small village in the summer.
In real life
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