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ConjunctionsConjunctions that invert the verb and subject

It is useful to be able to produce more complex sentences by using a conjunction. Coordinating and subordinating conjunctions used correctly will enhance your German.

Part of GermanGrammar

Conjunctions that invert the verb and subject

There are a few conjunctions which change the word order but do not subordinate the verb.

  • In the clause where they are used, they are the first idea, so the verb - the second idea - must come next.
  • The subject then comes immediately after the verb, so the pattern is conjunction-verb-subject.
A diagram to demonstrate that the subject and verb sometimes swap places in German.

Two very useful conjunctions that behave this way are:

  • deshalb 鈥 therefore, so
  • jedoch 鈥 however, but

This is how to use them:

deshalb

A diagram to demonstrate how the subject and verb have swapped places within a German sentence.

jedoch

A diagram to demonstrate how the subject and verb have swapped places within a German sentence.

Question

So how would you say鈥?

I have eaten too many sweets, so I am not hungry.

Did you know?

It's considered bad luck to wish someone in Germany a happy birthday before their big day. But as soon as midnight strikes, you're free to wish them well with the phrases: Alles Gute zum Geburtstag or Herzlichen Gl眉ckwunsch zum Geburtstag.

People usually sing the words zum Geburtstag viel Gl眉ck to the tune of Happy Birthday, although some German speakers prefer to stick to the English lyrics.

Cheerful birthday celebrations with a cake and candles
Image caption,
Traditionally the person who's celebrating their birthday will bring cake to school or the workplace or offer a round of drinks for their friends