The verb arbeiten (to work) is one of the most important words and also one of the first verbs to appear when learning German. This verb is very interesting because it can rarely stand alone in a sentence and is usually combined with other elements or with the prepositions mit/bei/für/an. However, the combination of the verb arbeiten with prepositions is rarely emphasized, so confusion is entirely possible. In this article we will explore this interesting combination together!

1. ARBEITEN MIT

- Arbeiten + mit + Werkzeug/Mittel (a tool or means someone uses in their work)

Examples: 1. Der Architekt arbeitet oft mit einem Bleistift.

The architect often works with a pencil.

2. Der Buchhalter arbeitet mit moderner Software.

The accountant works with modern software.

- Arbeiten + mit + Personen

Example: Ich arbeite seit vielen Jahren mit diesem Kollegen.

I have worked with this colleague for many years.

2. ARBEITEN FÜR

- Use für to express that you are doing a job somewhere or for someone; it implies that you are carrying out a task that someone or some company has assigned to you.

Examples: 1. Frau Müller arbeitet für eine Immobilienagentur.

Mrs. Müller works for a real estate agency.

2. Wir arbeiten seit 10 Jahren für unsere Chefin.

We have worked for our boss for 10 years.

3. ARBEITEN BEI

- Arbeiten + bei + Firmennamen

Example: Marina arbeitet bei der Post.

Maria works at the post office.

→ It only mentions the workplace, and does not mention who assigned the work or which company it is for.

4. ARBEITEN AN

- If you use the verb arbeiten with the preposition an, the meaning of the verb changes a little. In that case arbeiten is the process of planning, building, developing or repairing something.

Examples: 1.Wir arbeiten intensiv an diesem Projekt und machen sehr große Fortschritte.

We are working intensively on this project and are making great progress.

2. Der Mechaniker arbeitet an meinem Auto.

The mechanic is working on my car.