wenn
/vɛn/conjunction★Beginner
formalinformal
Used to introduce a conditional clause, meaning 'if' or 'when' depending on context.
Wenn es regnet, bleibe ich zu Hause.
If it rains, I stay at home.
Ich rufe dich an, wenn ich Zeit habe.
I'll call you when I have time.
💡
The meaning depends on the context. 'Wenn' can mean 'if' in conditional sentences or 'when' in temporal clauses.
Collocations
wenn...dannif...thenwenn aucheven ifwenn nichtunless
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
wenn es sein mussphrase
if it must be
wenn schon, dann auchphrase
if already, then also
💡Pro Tip
Conditional vs. Temporal
Pay attention to the context to determine whether 'wenn' means 'if' or 'when'.
⚡Gold Rule
Subordinate Clause
'Wenn' typically introduces a subordinate clause, so the verb comes to the end of the clause.
📖Word Origin
From Middle High German 'wenne', from Old High German 'wenne', from Proto-Germanic 'hwenne'.
📝Usage Notes
'Wenn' is a versatile conjunction that can express both conditional and temporal relationships. It is often followed by a subordinate clause.
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