When to use gern vs gerne

I often hear the question: “What’s the difference between gern and gerne?” Both versions are quite common.

Which one is correct gern or gerne?

The words gern/gerne both mean: gladly, like to or love to.

And all those who were afraid to use the words incorrectly can calm down.

There is no difference between gern and gerne. So, you can use both variants.

However, if you examine how often the forms gern or gerne occur, then you find that the form gern is preferred in the written language (in books and the daily press).

One more note:

You certainly know the phrase: Gern geschehen! (which means: You’re welcome! Here it is customary to use only gern!

Example sentences with gern, gerne

Here are some example sentences that you can listen to.

Ich gehe gern ins Kino.
Oder: Ich gehe gerne ins Kino.
I like going to the cinema.

Beide Sätze haben genau die gleiche Bedeutung!
Both sentences have exactly the same meaning!

Kannst du mir helfen?
Ja, das mache ich gern.
Oder: Ja, das mache ich gerne.

Can you help me?
Yes, I like to do that.

Kommst du mit in die Disco?
Ja, gern/gerne.

Are you coming with (me) to the disco?
Yes gladly.

Trinkst du gern/gerne Kaffee?
Ja, ich trinke gern/gerne Kaffee.

Do you like to drink coffee?
Yes, I like to drink coffee.

Conclusion: Don’t worry about doing something wrong.

You can use gern or gerne, it doesn’t matter!

There is no difference in the application. However, use the phrase: „Gern geschehen!“ („You’re welcome!“) rather only the form: ‘gern’.

It will pay off in the end! 

I know that learning a second or third language can be very difficult at first but never give up! Even if it seems to be a very long way, it will pay off in the end.