Das Buch liegt unter dem Tisch.

The book lies under the table.

Breakdown of Das Buch liegt unter dem Tisch.

• dem: the; (masculine or neuter, dative)
• der Tisch: the table
• das Buch: the book
• liegen: to lie
• unter: under

Questions & Answers about Das Buch liegt unter dem Tisch.

Why is "dem" used and not "den"?

Because "unter" (meaning "under") takes the dative case when it does not indicate movement. "Dem Tisch" is in the dative case, so "dem" is correct.

What does "liegt" literally mean?

"Liegt" comes from "liegen" ("to lie"). It indicates a position or location of an object. In this sentence, it's telling us the book is lying or is located underneath the table.

Can I just say "Das Buch ist unter dem Tisch"?

Yes, you could say that and still be understood. However, "liegt" is more specific and suggests the book lies there (usually horizontally). "Ist" just states that it is there without implying a position/orientation.

Why not use "unter den Tisch"?

"Unter den Tisch" would be used in an accusative context, typically if there's movement involved (e.g., "Ich lege das Buch unter den Tisch" – "I am putting the book under the table"). Since there is no movement, the dative "unter dem Tisch" is used.

Could I use any other word order?

Yes. You could say "Unter dem Tisch liegt das Buch." This emphasizes that the important part of the sentence is that it is "under the table," and then tells you what is there. Both orders are correct in German.