German Phrase
Brettspiele machen der ganzen Familie Spaß.
Meaning
This phrase describes the collective enjoyment a family derives from playing board games. It uses the common German idiomatic structure 'jemandem Spaß machen' to indicate that an activity provides pleasure to someone.
When to use
Use this sentence when recommending activities, discussing weekend plans, or describing the benefits of a specific hobby for a group. It is appropriate for both casual social settings and formal reviews.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Brettspielemachender ganzen FamilieSpaß
Spaß machen
This is a fixed expression where 'Spaß' is the object of 'machen'. It literally translates to 'to make fun'.
Dative Case
'Der ganzen Familie' is in the dative case because the joy is directed toward the family as an indirect object.
🗨In Conversation
Was macht ihr normalerweise am Sonntagabend?
What do you usually do on Sunday evening?
Wir spielen oft Monopoly. Brettspiele machen der ganzen Familie Spaß.
We often play Monopoly. Board games are fun for the whole family.
✕Common Mistakes
Brettspiele sind Spaß für die ganze Familie.
In German, we use the verb 'machen' (to make) with 'Spaß' rather than 'sein' (to be) to say something is fun.
Brettspiele machen die ganze Familie Spaß.
The person experiencing the fun must be in the dative case (der ganzen Familie), not the accusative case.
↔Alternatives
Die ganze Familie hat Spaß an Brettspielen.
The whole family has fun with board games.
Brettspiele unterhalten die ganze Familie.
Board games entertain the whole family.
Cultural Tip
Germany has a very strong board game culture and is the birthplace of the 'Eurogame' genre. The 'Spiel des Jahres' (Game of the Year) is a prestigious German award that often dictates what families across the country will be playing during their 'Spieleabend' (game night).