All German word comparisons · Back to the topic overview
Meaning, sentence patterns and examples
| Word | Core meaning | Typical context | Grammar |
|---|---|---|---|
| obwohl | although; even though | a subordinate concession clause | finite verb normally at the end |
| trotzdem | nevertheless; even so | a result despite an obstacle | main-clause verb second |
| dennoch | nevertheless; nonetheless | a contrasting result | main-clause verb second |
obwohl
Meaning and usage: Obwohl introduces a fact that might lead you to expect a different result. The obwohl-clause supplies that obstacle or contrary circumstance. It can come before or after the main clause. Everyday speech also has special corrective uses; the ordinary written pattern below is the safest learner model.
Grammar: Subordinating conjunction; no noun case. Normal finite verb at the end: obwohl es regnet. Separate the clause with a comma. If the subordinate clause comes first, the main-clause finite verb immediately follows the comma.
Obwohl der Zug verspätet ist, kommen wir noch rechtzeitig an.
Although the train is delayed, we still arrive in time.
trotzdem
Meaning and usage: Trotzdem presents what happens despite a fact already stated or understood. It can begin a main clause or appear later in it. It is also useful as a short response when the opposing circumstance is clear. It does not need to state that circumstance again.
Grammar: Adverbial connector. Front position: Trotzdem kommen wir. Later position: Wir kommen trotzdem. Keep normal main-clause word order; fronted trotzdem occupies the first position.
Der Zug ist verspätet. Trotzdem kommen wir rechtzeitig an.
The train is delayed. Nevertheless, we arrive in time.
dennoch
Meaning and usage: Dennoch can express the same contrary-to-expectation relation as trotzdem. It is useful in reports and explanations as well as other contexts. Do not invent a different factual meaning simply to distinguish the synonyms. Their suitability can depend on the sentence’s style and rhythm.
Grammar: Adverbial connector. Front position: Dennoch kommen wir. It can also occur within a clause. No required noun case, inflection or fixed following object.
Die Aufgabe war schwierig. Dennoch hat die Gruppe eine Lösung gefunden.
The task was difficult. Nevertheless, the group found a solution.
Overlap and context
Obwohl es regnet, gehen wir raus and es regnet; trotzdem gehen wir raus can describe the same situation. The first packages the rain as a subordinate concession, while the second connects two main-clause statements. Trotzdem also occurs as a subordinating form in some spoken usage; for standard learner writing, use obwohl for that verb-final construction. This lesson’s word-order rule describes the ordinary integrated patterns, not every conversational correction.
Common mistakes
- Avoid Trotzdem wir kommen rechtzeitig when trotzdem begins an ordinary main clause. Use Trotzdem kommen wir rechtzeitig.
- Avoid Obwohl es regnet, wir bleiben draußen. Use … bleiben wir draußen.
- Trotzdem and dennoch do not normally require different outcomes or different degrees of contrast.
Memory aid: Obwohl introduces the obstacle; trotzdem/dennoch introduces the surprising outcome. Then check whether you need subordinate or main-clause order.
Try it
Reorder: Trotzdem / wir / gehen / zum Kurs.
Show the answer
Trotzdem gehen wir zum Kurs.
Fronted trotzdem is followed by the finite verb gehen.