This article explains the difference between the German verbs finden (to find) and sich befinden (to be located), showing how to use each correctly in context.
Meaning and Usage
- finden means “to find” — to discover something or have an opinion.
- sich befinden means “to be located” — to state where someone or something is.
Usage of ‘finden’
- Use finden when you come across something or form an opinion.
- Example 1: Ich finde meinen Schlüssel nicht. (I can’t find my key.)
- Example 2: Wie findest du den Film? (What do you think of the movie?)
Usage of ‘sich befinden’
- Use sich befinden to describe the location of someone or something, often in a formal or written context.
- Example 1: Das Hotel befindet sich in der Innenstadt. (The hotel is located downtown.)
- Example 2: Wo befindet sich die Bibliothek? (Where is the library located?)
The hotel is located downtown. – Das Hotel _____ sich in der Innenstadt.
befindet
befindet is the third person singular reflexive form of sich befinden.
Summary
- finden = to find or to think
- sich befinden = to be located
- Don’t confuse finding something with stating where it is!
What should you remember about the verbs finden and sich befinden?
finden = to find or to think, sich befinden = to be located.
finden deals with finding or opinions, while sich befinden specifically means being located.
Last updated: Wed Jun 18, 2025
