Deutsch · A2 · grammar · 4 minutes
Because and that clauses
Send the finite verb to the end after weil and dass.
Understand the choice
A subordinate clause opens with a connector and closes with its finite verb. With a modal, the content infinitive comes just before that final modal; with a separable finite verb, prefix and stem recombine.
Core rule: Subordinating conjunctions such as weil and dass introduce a clause whose finite verb stands at the end.
Notice it in context
Ich bleibe zu Hause, weil ich morgen früh arbeiten muss.
I am staying home because I have to work early tomorrow.
Weil opens the clause; arbeiten is the content infinitive; finite muss occupies the final position.
Sie sagt, dass der Zug zehn Minuten Verspätung hat.
She says that the train is ten minutes late.
Dass introduces a claim and sends hat to the end.
Wir gehen früher, weil der Film um acht anfängt.
We leave earlier because the film starts at eight.
Separable anfängt is joined again at subordinate-clause end.
What to remember
- A comma separates the subordinate clause from its main clause.
- Denn also means because but coordinates main-clause word order: denn ich muss arbeiten.
Common trap: Do not leave the finite verb second after weil: weil ich arbeiten muss.