Understanding the Meaning of “Falls” in English
In English, “falls” is most commonly used as the third person singular form of the verb “to fall” in the present tense. For example, “He falls down the stairs.” It describes the action of something or someone moving from a higher to a lower position, often suddenly or accidentally. Unlike its German counterpart, “falls” in English is not used as a conjunction meaning “if” or “in case.”
Common Mistakes German Speakers Make with “Falls”
One of the most frequent errors German learners make is translating the German “falls” directly into English. In German, “falls” is used to introduce a conditional clause, similar to “if” or “in case” in English. For example:
- German: Falls es regnet, bleiben wir zu Hause.
- Incorrect English: Falls it rains, we stay at home.
- Correct English: If it rains, we stay at home. / In case it rains, we stay at home.
Remember, in English, “falls” is almost never used to start a conditional sentence. Instead, use “if” or “in case” for these situations.
Proper Usage of “Falls” in English Sentences
As a Verb
“Falls” is used with singular third person subjects (he, she, it). Here are a few examples:
- She always falls asleep during the movie.
- It falls to me to make the final decision.
- The apple falls from the tree every autumn.
As a Noun (Plural Form of “Fall”)
Less commonly, “falls” can be used as the plural of “fall” when referring to waterfalls, such as “Niagara Falls.” In this context, “falls” is a noun, not a verb.
- We visited the Victoria Falls last summer.
- The Iguazu Falls are breathtaking.
When NOT to Use “Falls” in English
Do not use “falls” as a conjunction. Instead, use these alternatives:
- If: If you need help, just ask.
- In case: Take an umbrella in case it rains.
Never write “falls you come late, call me.” Instead, say “If you come late, call me.”
Tips for Remembering the Correct Usage
- Associate “falls” in English with the action of falling.
- Practice sentences using “falls” as a verb with “he,” “she,” or “it.”
- Use “if” or “in case” to express conditions, not “falls.”
- Think of famous waterfalls when you see “falls” as a noun, such as “Niagara Falls.”
Practice Exercises
Try correcting these sentences:
- Falls you are hungry, there is food in the kitchen.
- He falls always asleep in class.
- We saw the beautiful falls during our trip.
Answers:
- If you are hungry, there is food in the kitchen.
- He always falls asleep in class.
- We saw the beautiful falls during our trip. (This is correct if referring to waterfalls.)
Conclusion
Mastering the usage of “falls” in English is an important step for German speakers aiming to improve their fluency. Always remember that “falls” is used as a verb or as a plural noun for waterfalls, not as a conjunction like in German. Replace the German “falls” with “if” or “in case” when speaking or writing in English. For more tips and language learning strategies, keep following the Talkpal – AI language learning blog. Practice regularly, and soon you’ll feel confident using “falls” correctly in any context!
