Translation of German word "sonst" to English
sonst
/zɔnt/
Meaning
VerbDifferently, in another way.
How to use
The conjunctional adverb sonst ('otherwise / or else / usually / else') is used to express condition or habit. Note: the source metadata mistakenly lists this as a verb, which is a major error; it is an adverb. When starting a clause, it triggers inversion (Beeil dich, sonst kommen wir zu spät — Hurry up, otherwise we'll be late). The phrase sonst noch was? means 'anything else?'.
🇬🇧 English
otherwise
Example
Ich gehe sonst nicht, wenn du nicht mitkommst.
I'll go otherwise, if you don't come with me.
Sie haben vielleicht Recht, aber ich denke anders.
You may be right, but I think otherwise.
Your personal vocabulary
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Common phrases
- sonst noch was?— anything else? / something else?
- wie sonst auch— as usual / like always
- Wer sonst?— Who else?
This concept in other languages
📖 Related grammar
Frequency rank: #147 in German
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the definition of the German word "sonst"?▼
The German word "sonst" is defined as: "Differently, in another way."
What does the German word "sonst" mean?▼
The German word "sonst" means "otherwise" in English.
How do you pronounce the German word "sonst"?▼
You can hear the correct audio pronunciation of the word "sonst" by clicking the play button next to the word at the top of this page.
Can I see an example sentence with "sonst"?▼
Yes, here is a practical example: "Ich gehe sonst nicht." (which translates as "I'll go otherwise, if you don't come with me.").
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