Main Clauses with Conjunctions
Learn to join two German main clauses with denn, aber, sondern, oder, and und. Distinguish reason, contrast, correction, alternative, and addition while keeping normal verb-second order in the second clause.
Explanation
Joining two main clauses
The conjunctions **denn, aber, sondern, oder**, and **und** join main clauses of equal status. The conjunction stands between the clauses. The second clause keeps normal main-clause word order: the conjugated verb is in position 2.
> Lina bleibt heute zu Hause, **denn sie ist erkältet**.
| Meaning | Conjunction | Example |
|---|---|---|
| reason | **denn** | Wir gehen früh, **denn der letzte Bus fährt um elf**. |
| contrast | **aber** | Das Café ist klein, **aber es ist sehr gemütlich**. |
| correction after negation | **sondern** | Amir fährt nicht mit dem Auto, **sondern er nimmt den Zug**. |
| alternative | **oder** | Wir kochen zusammen, **oder wir bestellen etwas**. |
| addition | **und** | Nora kauft Gemüse, **und ihr Bruder holt Brot**. |
Aber or sondern?
**Aber** expresses a contrast or unexpected limitation; the first clause need not be negative. **Sondern** corrects negated information, so it normally follows **nicht** or **kein-**.
- Der Weg ist lang, **aber** er ist nicht schwierig.
- Wir treffen uns nicht am Dienstag, **sondern** am Mittwoch.
Comma and word order
A comma normally separates two complete main clauses. With **und** and **oder**, it may be omitted when the structure is clear; this lesson uses it for clarity.
The conjunction does not occupy a sentence position. Count again inside the second clause: **aber | morgen (position 1) | kommt (position 2) | Lea später**.
Quick choice
1. reason → **denn**
2. contrast → **aber**
3. correction after negation → **sondern**
4. choice → **oder**
5. added information → **und**
Exercises
- Match each sentence beginning with the logically suitable ending. (3)
- Complete the sentences with denn, aber, sondern, oder, or und. Pay special attention to aber versus sondern. (3)
- Join the two main clauses with the given conjunction. Write one complete sentence and keep the verb in position 2 in the second clause. (11)
A2 · German · Grammar