German grammar: Satzstellung (Hauptsatz, Nebensatz, Verbzweitstellung, Verberststellung)

What this grammar point covers

In German, word order (Satzstellung) is very important. There are special rules for where the verb goes in main clauses, subordinate clauses, and questions.

When to use it

Use these rules to form correct German sentences: main clauses for statements, subordinate clauses after words like 'weil', 'dass', 'wenn', and verb-first for yes/no questions or commands.

Key forms

• Hauptsatz (main clause): Verb is in the second position.
• Nebensatz (subordinate clause): Verb goes to the end.
• Ja/Nein-Frage (yes/no question): Verb comes first.

Examples

Tips

• Always put the verb in the second position in main sentences.
• In subordinate clauses (with 'weil', 'dass', etc.), move the verb to the end.
• For yes/no questions, start the sentence with the verb.

Exceptions and edge cases

• Sometimes, in very short sentences or poetry, word order can change, but this is rare in everyday German.