Difference between frisst, isst and essen.
Could someone explain to me when i'd use the word 'frisst' or 'isst' rather than 'essen'?

For instance, if i were to say 'The children are eating' i'd say 'Die Kinder essen'. In what circumstance would I use frisst and isst?

Question

Difference between frisst, isst and essen.
Could someone explain to me when i'd use the word 'frisst' or 'isst' rather than 'essen'?

For instance, if i were to say 'The children are eating' i'd say 'Die Kinder essen'. In what circumstance would I use frisst and isst?

Answer

You only use "frisst" when you're talking about animals.

"Essen" is the infinitive and also the conjugated form for the 1. and 3. Person plural.
"Isst" is 2. and 3. Person singular.

Answer

"Isst" ist 3rd person singular of "essen": Das Kind isst.

Some past answers about "essen" and "fressen":
– February 2016: https://www.italki.com/question/344771
– January 2016: https://www.italki.com/question/341989
– October 2015: https://www.italki.com/question/327711
– July 2013: https://www.italki.com/question/205275

Answers · 4

Still haven’t found your answers?

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn a language from the comfort of your own home. Browse our selection of experienced language tutors and enroll in your first lesson now!