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German Phrase

Ich bin müde.

/ɪç bɪn ˈmyːdə/
Meaning"I am tired."
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Meaning

This phrase is the standard way to express physical or mental exhaustion in German. It consists of the subject 'Ich' (I), the verb 'bin' (am), and the adjective 'müde' (tired). It is a direct and common way to signal that you need rest.

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When to use

Use this phrase in any situation where you feel sleepy or lack energy, such as after a long day at work or late at night. It is suitable for both formal and casual conversations.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Ichbinmüde

1

Sein (bin)

'Bin' is the first-person singular form of the irregular verb 'sein' (to be).

2

Predicate Adjectives

When an adjective like 'müde' follows a linking verb like 'bin', it does not take any special endings.

🗨In Conversation

A

Möchtest du noch einen Film sehen?

Would you like to watch another movie?

Nein danke, ich bin müde.

No thanks, I am tired.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Ich habe müde.

    In German, you 'are' tired (sein), you do not 'have' tired (haben).

  • Ich bin mude.

    Always include the umlaut over the 'u'; 'mude' is not a valid word.

↔Alternatives

  • Ich bin erschöpft.

    I am exhausted.

  • Ich bin hundemüde.

    I am dog-tired.

  • Ich bin kaputt.

    I am shattered (informal).

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Cultural Tip

Germans value directness, so stating you are tired is a perfectly acceptable reason to leave a party or end a conversation. In very casual settings, you might hear 'Ich bin fix und fertig' to describe being completely worn out.