German während: Preposition or Conjunction?
Während ich das Abendessen koche, höre ich oft Podcasts. The word während can be a conjunction and a preposition, and both mean "while" or "during". But the grammar is completely different. In this lesson you learn how to tell them apart, which case you need and which version is right in an exam.
während as a Conjunction (while)
As a conjunction, während starts a subordinate clause (Nebensatz). Two actions happen at the same time, and the conjugated verb goes to the end of the clause.
- Während ich das Abendessen koche, höre ich oft Podcasts.
After the subordinate clause, the main clause starts with the verb. There is always a comma between the two clauses.
während as a Preposition (during)
As a preposition, während is followed by a noun. The sentence structure stays normal.
- Während der Arbeit darf ich mein Handy nicht benutzen.
Officially, während takes the Genitiv. In spoken German, many people use the Dativ instead (während dem Essen). In an exam or in writing, use the Genitiv.
How to Tell the Difference
| Conjunction | Preposition | |
|---|---|---|
| What follows? | a full clause with a verb | a noun phrase |
| Verb position | at the end | normal |
| Meaning | while | during |
| Case | no case needed | Genitiv (spoken often Dativ) |
Homework
Write one sentence with während as a conjunction and one as a preposition.
What to Learn Next
Learn more in German conjunctions: bevor, während & nachdem and The German Conjunction NACHDEM explained. For prepositions with the Genitiv, see innerhalb & außerhalb.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is während a preposition or a conjunction?
Both. As a conjunction it means while and starts a subordinate clause. As a preposition it means during and is followed by a noun.
Where does the verb go after während as a conjunction?
The conjugated verb goes to the end of the subordinate clause.
Which case does während take as a preposition?
Officially the Genitiv. In spoken German, the Dativ is common as well.
Which version should I use in an exam?
Use the Genitiv, for example während der Arbeit.
Do I need a comma before während?
Yes, as a conjunction it starts a Nebensatz, so you separate the clauses with a comma.
Want to master conjunctions and prepositions at B1 level? Our B1 German online course practises them step by step.
