In the infinitive form, verbs are written as one word. In non-infinitive forms, such as the present tense, certain German verbs split off prefixes, which contain the stressed syllable of the infinitive. The verb stem forms the front bracket (F.B.). The prefix forms the end bracket (E.B.).

Important bracket verbs we have seen thus far are:
 

In future lessons in the program, we will highlight separable prefixes in the vocabulary lists: umtauschen.

Modals with Separable Prefix Verbs

When you use a modal with a separable prefix verb, put the modal in the front bracket. The verb infinitive goes in the end bracket.
 

Examples of Present Tense Seperable Prefix Verbs

• Die S-Bahn fährt alle 30 Minuten vom Flughafen ab.
• Nein, ich rufe meine Frau im Büro an.