TOPIC · Sentence structure & conjunctions

Distinguishing Nachdem and Nach dem

B1

After completing this lesson, learners will be able to correctly distinguish between "Nachdem" and "Nach dem" and use them in sentences.

In this lesson, we will explore the differences between "Nachdem" and "Nach dem". Although they may sound similar, they serve different purposes in German. Let’s dive into the details!

1. Nachdem

"Nachdem" is a conjunction that introduces a subordinate clause and is used to describe two actions that do not happen simultaneously. The main clause states the action that occurs after the subordinate clause, and the subordinate clause must be in a tense that is one step back - establishing a sequence of time.

Examples:

  • Nachdem ich das Buch gelesen hatte, ging ich ins Bett.
    (After I had read the book, I went to bed.)
    -> Here, the main clause is in the simple past, while the subordinate clause with "Nachdem" is in the past perfect.

  • Nachdem sie ihre Hausaufgaben gemacht hat, geht sie nach draußen.
    (After she has done her homework, she goes outside.)
    -> The main clause is in present tense, and the subordinate clause is in perfect tense.

Rule for Tense Changes:

  • If the main clause is in present tense, the subordinate clause uses perfect tense:
    • Example: Nachdem du gegessen hast, können wir spielen.
  • If the main clause is in simple past, the subordinate clause should be in past perfect:
    • Example: Nachdem sie fertig war, hat sie die Tür verschlossen.

2. Nach dem

"Nach" is a preposition that pairs with a noun in the dative case and forms "nach dem" to refer to a time or event, indicating that an action follows thereafter.

Examples:

  • Wir gehen nach dem Essen nach Hause.
    (We are going home after dinner.)

  • Er fährt nach dem Meeting zum Flughafen.
    (He is heading to the airport after the meeting.)

Grammatical Note:

The position of prepositional phrases follows the TEKAMOLO rule - Temporal, Local, Modal, and Causal.

  • Example: Ich gehe nach dem Unterricht einkaufen.
    -> Here, "nach dem Unterricht" is temporal, and "einkaufen" refers to the activity done after.

Conclusion

Choosing between "Nachdem" and "Nach dem" depends on whether you want to use a subordinate clause ("Nachdem") or a prepositional phrase ("Nach dem"). Practice using these two appropriately to enhance your German skills!