denn
because · for · then
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Definition & meaning
"Denn" is a versatile particle and conjunction in German. Depending on the context, it serves two primary roles:
- As a conjunction: It is used to connect two clauses and provides a reason or explanation for the statement made in the first clause. It corresponds to the English word "because" or "for". Unlike the conjunction "weil" , "denn" does not change the word order of the sentence (it acts as a coordinating conjunction).
- As a modal particle: In questions or exclamations, it is used to express interest, impatience, surprise, or to soften the tone of a sentence. In this context, it does not have a direct translation but adds nuance to the speaker's attitude, often translating to "then," "really," or "actually" in English.
Grammar & Word origin
"Denn" is a conjunction that introduces a main clause, meaning the verb remains in the second position (Subject-Verb-Object).
- Example (Conjunction): "Ich gehe nach Hause, denn ich bin müde." (I am going home, because I am tired.)
- Example (Modal Particle): "Was machst du denn hier?" (What are you doing here?)
Historically, the word is related to the Old High German "denne," which originally meant "then" or "at that time." Over time, its usage shifted to encompass the causal meaning of "because."
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms (as a conjunction):
- weil (introduces a subordinate clause)
- da (often used for causal explanations)
- nämlich (used to elaborate on a previous statement)
Antonyms:
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Examples
Er kommt nicht, denn er ist krank.conjunction
He is not coming because he is sick.
Wir fahren nicht mit, denn wir sind müde.conjunction
We are not coming along, for we are tired.
Viele Leute bleiben zu Hause, denn draußen regnet es stark.conjunction
Many people stay at home, for it is raining heavily outside.
Heute bleibe ich zu Hause, denn draußen regnet es.conjunction
Today I am staying at home, for it is raining outside.
Wir blieben zu Hause, denn es regnete den ganzen Tag.conjunction
We stayed at home, for it rained the whole day.
Wir bleiben zu Hause, denn es regnet stark.conjunction
We are staying at home, for it is raining heavily.
Was machst du denn hier?adverb
What are you doing here then?
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