Common English Mistakes by German Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native German speakers from Germany when writing in English.

Category:Student
Personal writing used for admissions and transfer letters.
Common Users:Students of various disciplines.
Mistake Example #1

Student / Admission Essay

Overuse of passive voice

AI have dreamed of applying to your esteemed university has been a dream of minefor many years. TI see the opportunity to study inat such a prestigious institution is seen as a significant step in my academic journey. MThe innovative projects developed in your labs sparked my passion for engineeringwas inspired by the innovative projects that are developed in your labs, and I am eager to contribute to thisat environment.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking to reduce the use of passive voice."

I have dreamed of applying to your esteemed university for many years. I see the opportunity to study at such a prestigious institution as a significant step in my academic journey. The innovative projects developed in your labs sparked my passion for engineering, and I am eager to contribute to that environment.

Applying to your esteemed university has been a dream of mine for many years. The opportunity to study in such a prestigious institution is seen as a significant step in my academic journey. My passion for engineering was inspired by the innovative projects that are developed in your labs, and I am eager to contribute to this environment.

Mistake Example #2

Student / Personal Statement

Incorrect word order in subordinate clauses

Since I was a child, I have always been fascinated by how the world works, and this curiosity led me to pursue a degree in physics. It is important for me that Io study at your university because of the excellent research opportunities it offers. Although I have learned much in my previous studies, I believe that only through your programI can truly reach my potentialthrough your program.

Text corrected by:
Camille, Maryland, USA

"I reordered some of the words to improve the flow. "

Since I was a child, I have always been fascinated by how the world works, and this curiosity led me to pursue a degree in physics. It is important for me to study at your university because of the excellent research opportunities it offers. Although I have learned much in my previous studies, I believe that I can truly reach my potential through your program.

Since I was a child, I have always been fascinated by how the world works, and this curiosity led me to pursue a degree in physics. It is important for me that I study at your university because of the excellent research opportunities it offers. Although I have learned much in my previous studies, I believe that only through your program I can truly reach my potential.

Mistake Example #3

Student / Transfer Essay

Incorrect word order in subordinate clauses

When I decided to transfer to your university, I considered how important it is for me, that Io study in an environment where I can grow academically and personally. The courses that your university offers, they align perfectly with my career goals, which I have set for myself. Andditionally, I believe that the diverse student community, it will provide me with opportunities to learn from different perspectives, which iswould be very valuable for my development.

Text corrected by:
Michele A., Boston, Massachusetts; United States

"I corrected some of the word order and usage to make the English sound more natural. Otherwise, the ideas in this text are clearly expressed."

When I decided to transfer to your university, I considered how important it is for me to study in an environment where I can grow academically and personally. The courses that your university offers align perfectly with my career goals, and I believe that the diverse student community will provide me with opportunities to learn from different perspectives, which would be very valuable for my development.

When I decided to transfer to your university, I considered how important it is for me, that I study in an environment where I can grow academically and personally. The courses that your university offers, they align perfectly with my career goals, which I have set for myself. Additionally, I believe that the diverse student community, it will provide me with opportunities to learn from different perspectives, which is very valuable for my development.