Introduction to "Trotzdem"
The word trotzdem means "nevertheless," "despite that," or "even so" in German. It is used to express a contrast or contradiction between two related ideas. Trotzdem is an adverb, so it does not change the word order in the sentence, but the verb comes immediately after it.
How to Use "Trotzdem" in Sentences
Trotzdem connects two sentences where the second sentence presents an action that contradicts the situation in the first sentence. The structure is as follows:
- Main clause + period + trotzdem + verb + rest of sentence
Example:
- Es regnet. Trotzdem gehe ich spazieren. (It’s raining. Nevertheless, I’m going for a walk.)
Examples of "Trotzdem" in Sentences
- Er ist krank. Trotzdem geht er zur Arbeit. (He is sick. Nevertheless, he goes to work.)
- Sie hat wenig gelernt. Trotzdem hat sie die Prüfung bestanden. (She studied little. Nevertheless, she passed the exam.)
- Es ist kalt. Trotzdem bleiben wir draußen. (It is cold. Nevertheless, we are staying outside.)
- Das Buch ist teuer. Trotzdem kaufe ich es. (The book is expensive. Nevertheless, I am buying it.)
- Sie ist müde. Trotzdem macht sie Sport. (She is tired. Nevertheless, she exercises.)
Special Notes
When using trotzdem, remember that it is an adverb that typically appears at the beginning of the second clause, followed immediately by the verb.