wenn
if · when
wenn means 'if' or 'when' and introduces conditions or time clauses. It is one of the most common German conjunctions and is essential for everyday speech.
What wenn means
- if — for conditions, often with the verb in the subordinate clause at the end
- when — for repeated events or in the present/future, not for single past events
Heard in real German videos
Lines where wenn was actually spoken, from German videos watched with DeutschChat.
- Warte, wenn ich dich erwische.Wait, when I catch you.
- Komm bald wieder, wenn du Zeit hast.Come back soon when you have time.
- Hm, das glaube ich erst, wenn ich es sehe.Hm, I'll believe that when I see it.
Example sentences
- Wenn es regnet, bleiben wir zu Hause.If it rains, we stay home.
- Ich rufe dich an, wenn ich fertig bin.I'll call you when I'm done.
- Wenn du willst, können wir ins Kino gehen.If you want, we can go to the cinema.
Grammar
| Type | subordinating conjunction |
|---|---|
| Verb position | sends the conjugated verb to the end of the clause |
wenn is a subordinating conjunction: the verb goes to the end of the clause. Example: Ich komme, wenn ich Zeit habe.
Common phrases
- wenn aucheven though
- wenn nötigif necessary
- wenn möglichif possible
- immer wennwhenever
The mistake English speakers make
English speakers often confuse wenn with als. Use als for single events in the past, and wenn for repeated events or conditions.
Don’t confuse it with
- als — als is used for a single event in the past, while wenn is for repeated events or conditions.
- ob — ob means 'whether' and introduces indirect questions, while wenn means 'if' or 'when'.
Questions learners ask
What is the difference between wenn and als?
Use als for a single event in the past, e.g., Als ich klein war... Use wenn for repeated events or conditions, e.g., Wenn ich nach Hause komme...
Does wenn always mean 'if'?
No, it can also mean 'when' for repeated or future events. Context tells you which meaning is intended.
Where does the verb go in a sentence with wenn?
In the subordinate clause introduced by wenn, the conjugated verb goes to the end. Example: Ich freue mich, wenn du kommst.