Verb Placement & V2 Rule

The finite verb consistently occupies the second position in main clauses, which means the first slot can be an element, an adverb, or a phrase, and the verb follows immediately. This rule gives German its characteristic rhythm and makes information clear.

You can put a noun, pronoun, adverb, or even a whole phrase in the first position; the sentence then places the finite verb right after, and the rest of the elements follow in natural order. This flexibility lets you highlight different parts of the sentence for emphasis.

The finite verb is the second element, so if something other than the subject comes first, the subject typically follows the verb. This keeps the sentence balanced and keeps listeners oriented about who is doing what.

Adverbs and phrases describing time, manner, and place usually appear in that order after the verb and subject, aligning with the natural flow of information. Placing them consistently helps sentences sound smooth and intuitive.

In yes/no questions and commands, the finite verb moves to the first position, directly preceding the subject or the rest of the sentence. This inversion signals an immediate action or query, making sentences sharp and clear.

In subordinate clauses introduced by conjunctions like weil or dass, the finite verb moves to the end, breaking the main-clause V2 pattern and neatly packaging the clause's information. This rule helps listeners or readers distinguish main and dependent ideas.

When a sentence has modal verbs, separable prefixes, or perfect-tense constructions, infinitives and participles typically go to the end, sometimes appearing together as a double infinitive; the finite verb remains in its prescribed position. This keeps complex actions clearly ordered.

Keep the finite verb in the second position in main clauses, place subordinate-clause verbs at the end, and order adverbs by time, manner, and place for natural flow. Practicing these patterns turns sentence-making into an intuitive process.