1. Definition
In German grammar, sentences can be categorized into independent (main) clauses and dependent (subordinate) clauses based on their structure and function.
- Independent Clause (Hauptsatz): A sentence that can stand alone with a complete meaning.
- Dependent Clause (Nebensatz): A sentence that cannot stand alone and relies on the main clause for context.
2. Sentence Structure & Word Order
- Independent Clause (Hauptsatz): The verb takes the second position.
- Dependent Clause (Nebensatz): The verb is placed at the end of the clause.
3. Examples with English Translation
✅ Independent Clause (Hauptsatz):
🔹 Ich lerne Deutsch. (I am learning German.)
🔹 Er geht ins Kino. (He is going to the cinema.)
✅ Dependent Clause (Nebensatz):
🔹 Ich lerne Deutsch, weil ich in Deutschland studieren möchte.
(I am learning German because I want to study in Germany.)
🔹 Er geht ins Kino, obwohl er müde ist.
(He is going to the cinema although he is tired.)
4. Key Conjunctions for Dependent Clauses
- weil (because) → Ich bleibe zu Hause, weil es regnet. (I stay home because it is raining.)
- dass (that) → Ich weiß, dass du müde bist. (I know that you are tired.)
- wenn (if/when) → Ich komme, wenn ich Zeit habe. (I come if I have time.)
By mastering these clause structures, learners can form more complex and fluent sentences in German.
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