sollen

This is the 89th most frequent German word.


sollen

"To be supposed to" or "should."


In this sentence, 'sollen' is used to express an obligation or a duty prescribed to the speaker.

Ich soll meine Hausaufgaben bis heute Abend fertig machen.

I am supposed to finish my homework by this evening.


Here, 'sollen' is used in a question to ask for advice or a suggestion.

Was soll ich tun, wenn ich diesen Fehler sehe?

What should I do when I see this error?


In this context, 'sollen' is used in its subjunctive form ('sollte') to express a recommendation or advice.

Er sollte das Problem genauer untersuchen.

He should examine the problem more closely.