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German Phrase

Ich bin 40.

/ɪç bɪn ˈfɪʁ.tsɪç/
Meaning"I am 40."
💡

Meaning

This is the standard way to express your age in German using the verb 'sein' (to be) followed by a number. It is a direct equivalent to the English 'I am 40' and is grammatically complete on its own.

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When to use

This phrase is used in both formal and informal settings when introducing yourself or answering the question 'Wie alt bist du?'. It is perfectly natural to use the number alone without adding 'years old'.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Ichbin40

1

Sein (bin)

The verb 'sein' is irregular; 'bin' is the first-person singular present form used with 'Ich'.

2

Age Construction

German age construction follows the pattern: Subject + 'sein' + Number (+ 'Jahre alt').

🗨In Conversation

A

Wie alt bist du?

How old are you?

Ich bin 40.

I am 40.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Ich habe 40.

    German uses 'sein' (to be) for age, whereas 'haben' (to have) is a common mistake for speakers of Romance languages.

  • Ich bin 40 Jahre.

    In German, you must either stop at the number or say 'Jahre alt'. You cannot end the sentence with just 'Jahre'.

↔Alternatives

  • Ich bin 40 Jahre alt.

    I am 40 years old.

  • Ich bin gerade 40 geworden.

    I just turned 40.

de

Cultural Tip

In Germany, being direct about your age is common among friends and acquaintances. However, in professional settings, it is rarely discussed unless specifically relevant to the conversation. Stating your age is a basic part of any introductory German course.