Verb-final word order in subordinate clauses

In brief

In a German subordinate clause introduced by words such as weil (because), dass (that), or wenn (if/when), the conjugated verb goes at the end. English usually keeps the verb near the subject, so pay special attention to its position in German. Put a comma between the main clause and the subordinate clause.

Form

Main clause + comma + weil/dass/wenn + subject + other information + conjugated verb. With two verbs, the conjugated verb comes last: weil ich morgen arbeiten muss.

Usage

• Use weil to give a reason: Ich bleibe zu Hause, weil ich krank bin.
• Use dass to report a thought or statement: Ich glaube, dass er heute kommt.
• Use wenn to state a condition: Ich rufe dich an, wenn ich Zeit habe.

Examples

• Ich bleibe zu Hause, weil ich krank bin. — I’m staying home because I’m sick.
• Sie sagt, dass sie morgen arbeiten muss. — She says she has to work tomorrow.
• Ich rufe dich an, wenn ich Zeit habe. — I’ll call you when I have time.

Common mistake

❌ Ich bleibe zu Hause, weil ich bin krank.

✅ Ich bleibe zu Hause, weil ich krank bin.

After weil, the conjugated verb bin belongs at the end of the subordinate clause, rather than immediately after the subject as in English.

Remember

After weil, dass, or wenn, place the conjugated verb at the end of that clause.