Translation of German word "während" to English
während
/vaːʁdɪŋ/
Meaning
ConjunctionPreposition taking the genitive ('during') or subordinating conjunction ('while / whereas').
How to use
The word während has two grammatical functions: (1) A preposition meaning 'during' which requires the genitive case (während des Krieges — during the war; colloquially sometimes dative is used). (2) A subordinating conjunction meaning 'while / whereas' which introduces a clause and sends the conjugated verb to the very end (Während ich lerne, schläft er — While I am studying, he is sleeping).
🇬🇧 English
during / while
Example
Ich bin während der Ferien in Italien.
I am in Italy during the holidays.
Ich esse während der Arbeit ein Sandwich.
I eat a sandwich while working.
Your personal vocabulary
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Common phrases
- während des Unterrichts— during the lesson / class (genitive preposition)
- während ich warte— while I wait / am waiting (conjunction)
- während der Nacht— during the night
More Connectors & Prepositions words
📖 Related grammar
Frequency rank: #102 in German
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the definition of the German word "während"?▼
The German word "während" is defined as: "Preposition taking the genitive ('during') or subordinating conjunction ('while / whereas')."
What does the German word "während" mean?▼
The German word "während" means "during / while" in English.
How do you pronounce the German word "während"?▼
You can hear the correct audio pronunciation of the word "während" by clicking the play button next to the word at the top of this page.
Can I see an example sentence with "während"?▼
Yes, here is a practical example: "Ich bin während der Ferien in Italien." (which translates as "I am in Italy during the holidays.").
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