Translation of German word "indem" to English
indem
/ɪndɛm/
Meaning
PrepositionSubordinating conjunction expressing method/means ('by doing so') or simultaneous action.
How to use
The subordinating conjunction indem ('by doing / in that / while') introduces modal clauses indicating the means or method of an action (Er spart Energie, indem er das Licht ausschaltet — He saves energy by switching off the light). Note: the source translation is 'because' (потому что), which is a major error; indem expresses method/instrument, not cause (which is weil or da). It sends the conjugated verb to the end.
🇬🇧 English
by / while / in that
Example
Ich bin müde, indem ich den ganzen Tag gearbeitet habe.
I am tired because I worked the whole day.
Ich bin froh, indem ich meine Freunde getroffen habe.
I am happy because I met my friends.
Your personal vocabulary
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Common phrases
- indem er sagt— by saying / through saying
- indem man lernt— by learning / studying
- Energie sparen, indem— to save energy by...
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Frequency rank: #133 in German
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the definition of the German word "indem"?▼
The German word "indem" is defined as: "Subordinating conjunction expressing method/means ('by doing so') or simultaneous action."
What does the German word "indem" mean?▼
The German word "indem" means "by / while / in that" in English.
How do you pronounce the German word "indem"?▼
You can hear the correct audio pronunciation of the word "indem" by clicking the play button next to the word at the top of this page.
Can I see an example sentence with "indem"?▼
Yes, here is a practical example: "Ich bin müde, indem ich den ganzen Tag gearbeitet habe." (which translates as "I am tired because I worked the whole day.").
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