TOPIC · Sentence structure & conjunctions

The infinitive structure with ohne..zu and (an)statt….zu in German

B1B2

After this lesson, you will be able to correctly use the constructions "ohne...zu" and "(an)statt...zu" to express actions and alternative situations.

In this lesson, we will explore two special infinitive constructions in German: "ohne...zu" and "(an)statt...zu". These constructions are unique because the subject in the subordinate clause is omitted. They allow us to express certain actions and their relationships more clearly. Let’s look at the usage and differences between these constructions in detail.

Usage of ohne...zu

The structure "ohne...zu" indicates that an action was not performed. This often occurs after the main action has taken place. Here is the general structure:

  • Main clause + ohne + infinitive + zu + verb

Examples:

ExampleTranslation
Er geht ins Fitnessstudio, ohne sich vorher zu dehnen.He goes to the gym without stretching beforehand.
Sie hat das Haus verkauft, ohne die Möbel zu entfernen.She sold the house without removing the furniture.
Die Kinder spielen draußen, ohne einen Regenschirm mitzunehmen.The children play outside without taking an umbrella.

These examples show that the actions in the main clauses are completed, while the subordinate clauses represent an absence of another action.

Usage of (an)statt...zu

The structure "(an)statt...zu" is used to present an alternative action that was not realized. The infinitive is also used here:

  • Main clause + (an)statt + infinitive + zu + verb

Examples:

ExampleTranslation
Ich esse lieber einen Salat, anstatt ein Stück Kuchen zu nehmen.I prefer to eat a salad instead of taking a piece of cake.
Er liest ein Buch, statt fernzusehen.He reads a book instead of watching TV.
Sie geht joggen, anstatt zu schlafen.She goes jogging instead of sleeping.

This construction indicates that the action of the main clause has taken place, whereas the action in the subordinate clause did not occur.

Differences between ohne...zu and (an)statt...zu

  • ohne...zu signifies a non-action that has already occurred in the main clause.
  • (an)statt...zu emphasizes an alternative that was not chosen.

Conclusion

These two constructions can be effective means of expressing complex thoughts and relationships between actions. If you understand the rules and structures, you can enhance your German language skills and make your expressions more precise.

Summary

You will now be able to correctly use the constructions "ohne...zu" and "(an)statt...zu" to express actions and alternative situations.