dann
then, at that time · then, after that · then, in that case
Dann means 'then' and is used to talk about a point in time, a sequence of events, or a consequence. It is one of the most common German adverbs and appears in everyday speech constantly.
What dann means
- then, at that time — referring to a specific time in the past or future
- then, after that — showing the next step in a sequence
- then, in that case — introducing a consequence or conclusion
Heard in real German videos
Lines where dann was actually spoken, from German videos watched with DeutschChat.
- Also bis morgen dann.So see you tomorrow then.
- Und was ist dann passiert?And what happened then?
Example sentences
- Ich gehe einkaufen, dann koche ich.I go shopping, then I cook.
- Wenn es regnet, dann bleiben wir zu Hause.If it rains, then we stay home.
- Was machst du dann?What are you doing then?
- Bis morgen dann!See you tomorrow then!
Common phrases
- dann und wannnow and then, occasionally
- bis dannsee you then, bye for now
- dann mal loslet's go then
- na dannwell then, in that case
The mistake English speakers make
English speakers often confuse dann with denn. Dann means 'then' (time or consequence), while denn means 'because' or is used as a modal particle in questions. Use dann for sequences, denn for reasons.
Don’t confuse it with
- denn — Denn means 'because' or is a modal particle, while dann means 'then'.
Questions learners ask
What is the difference between dann and danach?
Dann is more general and can mean 'then' in time or consequence. Danach specifically means 'after that' and refers to a sequence in time.
Can dann be used at the beginning of a sentence?
Yes, dann often starts a sentence. When it does, the verb must come immediately after it (inversion), e.g., 'Dann gehe ich nach Hause.'
How do you say 'see you then' in German?
You can say 'bis dann' or 'dann bis später' or 'bis morgen dann' depending on the context.