TOPIC · Sentence structure & conjunctions

Subjektsatz and Objektsatz in German

B1B2

After this lesson, you will be able to identify and construct subject and object clauses in German sentences.

In this lesson, we will explore Subjektsätze (subject clauses) and Objektsätze (object clauses) in German. These types of clauses play a crucial role in sentence construction, as they provide clarity and detail in communication. First, let’s understand what Subjektsätze are and how they are formed.

1. Subjektsatz

A Subjektsatz replaces the subject of a sentence. It is a dependent clause that usually answers the questions "who?" or "what?".

Examples:

SentenceTranslation
a. Who wants to be a good athlete (he) has to train a lot.Who wants to be a good athlete must train a lot.
b. That you are coming makes me happy.That you are coming makes me happy.

How to form a Subjektsatz

  • Method 1: Using question words (W-Fragewörter) like wer (who), was (what)
    • a. Who wants to achieve his goals (he) must work hard. (Who wants to achieve his goals must work hard.)
    • b. What you do does not concern me. (What you do does not concern me.)
    • The part after the comma can often be omitted.
  • Method 2: Using conjunctions like dass (that) or ob (whether)
    • a. Whether he comes is uncertain. (Whether he will come is uncertain.)
    • b. That you did not follow me surprises me. (That you did not follow me surprises me.)

2. Objektsatz

An Objektsatz replaces the object of a sentence. This dependent clause usually answers the questions "whose?" (Genitive), "to whom?" (Dative), or "who? - what?" (Accusative).

Examples:

SentenceTranslation
a. I said that I would visit you.I said that I would visit you.
b. I help anyone I want.I help anyone I want.

How to form an Objektsatz

  • Using conjunctions or question words such as dass, ob, wann, warum, wo, wohin
    • a. She is not aware that she is making a mistake. (She is not aware that she is making a mistake.)
    • b. We do not know why he is leaving. (We do not know why he is leaving.)

By completing this lesson on Subjektsätze and Objektsätze, you will be able to identify and construct these types of clauses in German sentences effectively.