anfangen
to begin, to start
Intermediate Verb
🔊
Pronunciation
/ˈan.faŋ.ən/
💡
Cultural Note
'Anfangen' is a separable verb with a strong vowel change (a→ä in du/er forms, a→i in past). In German event culture, start times are taken literally. If an invitation says 19:00, guests are expected at 19:00 — not 19:15. 'Pünktlich anfangen' (starting on time) is a point of pride.
📝 Example Sentences
Wann fängt die Party an?
When does the party start?
Lass uns anfangen!
Let's start!
Der Film fängt um acht an.
The movie starts at eight.