Hallo Leute! 👋
Our question for the day is: What is the difference between obwohl and trotzdem in German grammar?
This blog will help you understand when and how to use these two words. 📚📝
Explanation:
Obwohl vs. Trotzdem:
Using Obwohl:
Obwohl means although. It is used to introduce a subordinate clause and sends the verb to the end of the clause.
For example:
Ich gehe spazieren, obwohl es regnet. (I’m going for a walk, although it’s raining.) 🌧️
Using Trotzdem:
Trotzdem means nevertheless or despite that.
For example:
Es regnet. Trotzdem gehe ich spazieren. (It’s raining. Nevertheless, I’m going for a walk.) ☔
Unlike obwohl, trotzdem does not introduce a subordinate clause, nor does it send the verb to the end of the clause.
Instead, trotzdem is an adverb that typically comes at the beginning of a main clause, and the word order remains the same as in any main clause.
Summary:
To distinguish between obwohl and trotzdem:
- Use obwohl to introduce a subordinate clause and send the verb to the end. 📖
- Use trotzdem as an adverb at the beginning of a main clause, keeping the word order the same. 🗣️
Extra Examples:
Here are some extra examples to help you practice:
A- Obwohl es kalt ist, gehen wir schwimmen. (Although it’s cold, we’re going swimming.) ❄️ – Subordinate clause with verb at the end
B- Es ist kalt. Trotzdem gehen wir schwimmen. (It’s cold. Nevertheless, we’re going swimming.) 🏊♂️ – Main clause, word order remains the same
C- Obwohl sie müde war, hat sie weitergearbeitet. (Although she was tired, she kept working.) 😴 – Subordinate clause with verb at the end
To reinforce what you’ve just read, check out our engaging video below! 🎥👇
