German GCSE
Subordinate Clause
What Subordinate Clause means in German GCSE, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.
Definitions of Subordinate Clause
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
A clause that cannot stand alone as a sentence. In German, words like 'weil' (because) or 'dass' (that) force the conjugated verb to the very end of the clause.
A dependent clause that cannot stand alone as a sentence. Introduced by subordinating conjunctions like 'weil', 'dass', or 'obwohl'.
A dependent clause introduced by a subordinating conjunction (e.g., weil, dass), which sends the conjugated verb to the end.
A secondary part of a sentence that cannot stand alone, introduced by words like 'weil', 'dass', or 'obwohl'.
A dependent clause introduced by a subordinating conjunction (like weil, dass, wenn).
Topics that use Subordinate Clause
- Grammar: Verbs and tenses (Pearson Edexcel GCSE)
- Thematic Context: Lifestyle and wellbeing (Pearson Edexcel GCSE)
- Vocabulary: Adverbs (Pearson Edexcel GCSE)
- Vocabulary: Cultural and geographical words (Pearson Edexcel GCSE)
- Vocabulary: Verbs (Pearson Edexcel GCSE)
Related terms
- Reflexive Verb
- Auxiliary Verb
- Conjugation
- Inversion
- Past Participle
- Separable Verb
- Accusative Case
- Adjective
Using Subordinate Clause in the exam
Definition questions usually carry one or two marks, and examiners look for the precise wording. Write the definition from memory, check it against the version above, and then use the term in a longer answer on the same topic so it sticks.
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