adverbconjunction

nämlich

namely · because

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Definition & meaning

The word nämlich is a common German adverb that serves two primary purposes in a sentence:

Specification (Namely / That is to say): It is used to identify or specify something more precisely that was just mentioned in general terms. In this context, it functions similarly to "namely" or "specifically." For example: "Ich habe nur ein Ziel, nämlich die Prüfung zu bestehen" (I have only one goal, namely to pass the exam).
Causal Explanation (Because / For): It provides a reason or explanation for a previous statement. In this sense, it translates to "because" or "for," but unlike other conjunctions, it usually occupies the second or third position in a sentence and cannot stand at the beginning. For example: "Ich verspäte mich, ich habe nämlich den Bus verpasst" (I am running late, because I missed the bus).

Grammar & Word origin

Grammatically, nämlich is an adverb. A crucial rule for its usage is that it is never placed at the very beginning of a sentence (position one). It typically follows the conjugated verb or the subject.

The word originates from the Middle High German næmelīch and is derived from the noun Name (name). Historically, it meant "by name" or "explicitly named." Over time, the meaning shifted from identifying someone by name to identifying a specific fact or reason.