Introduction to Temporal Nebensätze
Temporal subordinate clauses in German use specific conjunctions to indicate when something happens in relation to another event. Each conjunction (like bevor, nachdem, seit/seitdem, während, and bis) expresses different temporal relationships. In temporal clauses, the conjugated verb moves to the end of the subordinate clause.
1. Bevor (before)
Bevor is used to indicate that one action occurs before another action. The verb in the "bevor" clause moves to the end.
Bevor wir essen, waschen wir unsere Hände. - Before we eat, we wash our hands.
Er ruft an, bevor er kommt. - He calls before he arrives.
2. Nachdem (after)
Nachdem is used to indicate that one action happens after another action. It is often followed by the past perfect when referring to completed actions.
Nachdem sie angekommen war, begann das Meeting. - After she had arrived, the meeting started.
Nachdem ich die Arbeit beendet hatte, ging ich nach Hause. - After I had finished the work, I went home.
3. Seit/Seitdem (since)
Seit or seitdem is used to describe actions that began in the past and continue to the present.
Seit ich hier wohne, habe ich viele Freunde gefunden. - Since I have lived here, I have made many friends.
Seitdem er nach Deutschland gezogen ist, lernt er Deutsch. - Since he moved to Germany, he has been learning German.
4. Während (while)
Während is used to describe two actions that occur simultaneously. It can also indicate a period during which an action takes place.
Während ich arbeite, hört sie Musik. - While I work, she listens to music.
Während des Meetings blieb das Telefon still. - The phone stayed silent during the meeting.
5. Bis (until)
Bis is used to indicate that an action will continue up to a certain point in time.
Warte hier, bis ich zurück bin. - Wait here until I am back.
Er bleibt, bis der Film zu Ende ist. - He stays until the movie is over.
Note: Remember that in subordinate clauses with these conjunctions, the verb goes to the end of the clause.