German Subordinating Conjunctions

Understanding German subordinating conjunctions is key for clear communication. These words connect clauses, adding depth to your sentences. Mastering them will enhance your writing and speaking skills, making your AP German experience more effective and enjoyable.

1. dass (that)

   • Used to introduce a subordinate clause that provides additional information.
   • Commonly follows verbs of perception, belief, or communication (e.g., sagen, glauben).
   • The verb in the subordinate clause is placed at the end.

2. weil (because)

   • Introduces a reason or cause for an action or situation.
   • The verb in the subordinate clause is placed at the end.
   • Often used to explain motivations or justifications.

3. wenn (when, if)

   • Used to indicate a condition or a time frame for an action.
   • Can refer to both present/future situations and hypothetical scenarios.
   • The verb in the subordinate clause is placed at the end.

4. obwohl (although)

   • Introduces a contrast or concession, indicating that something happens despite another fact.
   • The verb in the subordinate clause is placed at the end.
   • Often used to express unexpected outcomes.

5. damit (so that)

   • Indicates purpose or intention behind an action.
   • The verb in the subordinate clause is placed at the end.
   • Often used to show the desired outcome of an action.

6. als (when - for single past events)

   • Refers specifically to a single event in the past.
   • The verb in the subordinate clause is placed at the end.
   • Used to provide context for past actions.

7. nachdem (after)

   • Indicates that one action occurs after another.
   • The verb in the subordinate clause is placed at the end.
   • Often used to sequence events in the past.

8. bevor (before)

   • Indicates that one action occurs prior to another.
   • The verb in the subordinate clause is placed at the end.
   • Used to establish a timeline of events.

9. während (while)

   • Indicates simultaneous actions or events.
   • The verb in the subordinate clause is placed at the end.
   • Often used to show actions happening at the same time.

10. ob (whether)

    • Used to introduce indirect questions or alternatives.
    • The verb in the subordinate clause is placed at the end.
    • Often used to express uncertainty or choice.

11. seit(dem) (since)

    • Indicates a starting point in time for an ongoing action or situation.
    • The verb in the subordinate clause is placed at the end.
    • Often used to express duration from a specific time.

12. bis (until)

    • Indicates a point in time up to which an action occurs.
    • The verb in the subordinate clause is placed at the end.
    • Often used to set a limit on time.

13. da (because, since)

    • Used to provide a reason or explanation, similar to "weil."
    • The verb in the subordinate clause is placed at the end.
    • Often used in more formal contexts.

14. falls (in case)

    • Indicates a condition or possibility.
    • The verb in the subordinate clause is placed at the end.
    • Often used to express precaution or contingency.

15. solange (as long as)

    • Indicates a condition that must be met for an action to occur.
    • The verb in the subordinate clause is placed at the end.
    • Often used to express duration contingent on a condition.