Breakdown of Ich kann mir das Aktenzeichen nicht merken.
ich
I
nicht
not
können
can / to be able to
sich merken
to memorize / to remember (commit to memory)
das Aktenzeichen
the file number
Questions & Answers about Ich kann mir das Aktenzeichen nicht merken.
Why is there an "n" in the middle of Aktenzeichen?
Aktenzeichen is a compound noun made from die Akte (the file) and das Zeichen (the sign or reference). Because die Akte is a feminine noun ending in "-e", it takes an "-n-" as a linking element (Fugenlaut) when joined to another word to form a compound noun.
Why does the sentence use mir instead of mich?
The verb sich merken (to memorize or keep in mind) requires a dative reflexive pronoun. Because the thing you are remembering (das Aktenzeichen) is the direct object taking the accusative case, the reflexive pronoun for the person doing the remembering must take the dative case (mir).
Could I use the verb sich erinnern instead of sich merken here?
They have slightly different focuses. Sich etwas merken means to actively commit something to memory so you don't forget it. Sich an etwas erinnern means to recall a memory from the past. For a number you are struggling to retain in your head right now, sich merken is the most natural fit.
Why is nicht placed right before merken?
When you negate the entire action of a sentence, nicht generally moves to the end of the clause. However, because the modal verb kann pushes the infinitive verb (merken) to the very final position, nicht must be placed immediately in front of that infinitive.
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