The sentence bracket: finite verb and final verb

In brief

In a German main clause, the conjugated verb comes near the beginning. If there is another verb, such as an infinitive after a modal verb, it goes at the end. Together, the two verb parts form a frame around the rest of the sentence. A separable verb works similarly: its prefix moves to the end.

Form

Subject + conjugated modal verb + other information + infinitive; or subject + conjugated separable verb + other information + prefix.

Usage

• With modal verbs such as müssen and können, put the second verb in its infinitive form at the end.
• With separable verbs such as anrufen, put the prefix at the end of a main clause.
• Keep time words and other details between the two parts of the frame.

Examples

• Ich muss heute arbeiten. — I have to work today.
• Wir können morgen kommen. — We can come tomorrow.
• Ich rufe dich heute Abend an. — I’ll call you tonight.

Common mistake

❌ Ich muss arbeiten heute.

✅ Ich muss heute arbeiten.

English allows ‘I have to work today,’ but in this German main clause the infinitive arbeiten closes the verb frame. Put heute before it.

Remember

In a main clause, look for the verb part that closes the frame at the end.