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German Phrase

Mieter müssen die Miete pünktlich zahlen.

/ˈmiːtɐ ˈmʏsn̩ diː ˈmiːtə ˈpʏŋktlɪç ˈtsaːlən/
Meaning"Tenants must pay the rent on time."
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Meaning

Tenants are required to pay the rent on time. The sentence stresses a legal or contractual obligation and the importance of punctuality.

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When to use

Use this sentence when discussing rental contracts, sending reminders, or explaining the duties of a tenant in a formal or semi‑formal setting.

✦Grammar Breakdown

MietermüssendieMietepünktlichzahlen

1

Mieter (noun, plural)

Plural noun meaning 'tenants', used as the subject of the sentence.

2

müssen (modal verb)

Present tense, 3rd person plural modal verb expressing obligation; it pushes the infinitive verb to the end.

3

die Miete (accusative object)

Definite article 'die' marks the feminine noun 'Miete' (rent) in the accusative case.

4

pünktlich (adverb)

Adverb meaning 'on time' or 'punctually', placed before the infinitive verb.

5

zahlen (infinitive verb)

Main verb in infinitive form, placed at the end of the clause after the modal verb.

🗨In Conversation

A

Bitte denken Sie daran, die Miete pünktlich zu zahlen.

Please remember to pay the rent on time.

Keine Sorge, ich zahle die Miete immer pünktlich.

Don't worry, I always pay the rent on time.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Mieter sollen die Miete pünktlich zahlen.

    Using 'sollen' changes the meaning from a strict obligation to a recommendation.

  • Mieter zahlen die Miete pünktlich müssen.

    In German, the infinitive verb must stay at the end when a modal verb is used.

  • Mieter müssen Miete pünktlich zahlen.

    The noun 'Miete' requires the definite article in this context.

↔Alternatives

  • Mieter sind verpflichtet, die Miete rechtzeitig zu überweisen.

    Tenants are obliged to transfer the rent in a timely manner.

  • Die Miete muss vom Mieter pünktlich bezahlt werden.

    The rent must be paid punctually by the tenant.

  • Bitte zahlen Sie die Miete termingerecht.

    Please pay the rent by the due date.

de

Cultural Tip

In German‑speaking countries punctuality is taken very seriously, especially in financial matters. Late rent can trigger a 'Mahnung' (reminder) and, if it continues, legal action such as termination of the lease. Using the modal verb 'müssen' conveys a firm, contractual duty, while softer verbs like 'sollen' would only suggest a recommendation.