German grammar: Satzstellung: Hauptsatz

What this grammar point covers

In German, the main clause (Hauptsatz) is a complete sentence that can stand alone. The word order in a main clause is important: the verb usually comes in the second position.

When to use it

Use this word order in German for normal sentences, statements, and yes/no questions that start with the verb.

Key forms

• Subject + Verb + other elements
• Example: Ich lerne Deutsch.
• If another element (like time or place) is first, the verb is still second: Heute lerne ich Deutsch.

Examples

Tips

• Remember: In a main clause, the conjugated verb is always in the second position.
• If you start the sentence with something other than the subject (like time or place), the subject comes after the verb.
• Do not put two elements before the verb.

Exceptions and edge cases

• In yes/no questions, the verb comes first.
• Coordinating conjunctions (und, aber, oder) do not change the word order.