Während & Präpositionen mit Genitiv
Contrast, time relations and formal case patterns. This detailed lesson includes explanations, model sentences, common error guidance, written practice and a self-checking quiz. Work through the sections in order, then practise producing your own examples.
Estimated study time: 25–40 minutes · Level: B2 · German examples with English support
Learning objectives
Understand the rule
Identify the structure, meaning and typical word order for this B2 grammar topic.
Use it accurately
Notice verb position, case, endings, punctuation and the relationship between clauses.
Produce original examples
Adapt the model sentences to your own study, work and everyday situations.
Check your learning
Complete the practice tasks and quiz. Review the explanations for any answer you miss.
1. Während as a conjunction
Während can introduce a subordinate clause meaning “while” or “whereas”. The finite verb goes to the end: “Während ich koche, deckt er den Tisch.” It can express simultaneous actions or contrast between two facts.
A comma separates the während-clause from the main clause. The context tells you whether the meaning is temporal or contrastive.
2. Während as a preposition
Während + genitive is a formal prepositional construction: “während des Gesprächs”, “während der Sitzung”, “während eines Jahres”. In everyday speech, dative may occur regionally, but genitive is the standard target for formal writing.
A noun phrase after während is not a subordinate clause: compare “Während der Sitzung …” with “Während die Sitzung läuft, …”.
3. Common genitive prepositions
Examples include trotz, während, wegen, aufgrund, innerhalb, außerhalb, oberhalb, unterhalb, statt/anstatt and angesichts. They are often used in formal or written German.
Article and adjective endings reflect the genitive: wegen des starken Regens; trotz der schwierigen Lage; innerhalb eines Monats. Some prepositions may take dative in colloquial speech, but genitive is expected in formal B2 writing.
4. Word order and style
A prepositional phrase can stand at the beginning: “Trotz des Regens gingen wir spazieren.” The finite verb remains in position two. Use genitive phrases precisely; do not overload sentences with formal prepositions when a simple clause would be clearer.
Model examples and close reading
Read the German sentence first, identify the target structure, then compare the English meaning and note the reason for the form.
Während introduces a subordinate clause; arbeite is at the end of that clause.
Trotz takes genitive in formal standard German.
Innerhalb is followed by a genitive noun phrase.
Here während is a preposition followed by a noun phrase.
Practice exercises
Write a complete German answer in each field. The checker compares your answer with a model solution and ignores differences in capitalisation and extra spaces. Alternative wording may be correct even if it is not recognised automatically; compare it with the model and explanation.
Study tip: after checking, cover the model and write the sentence again from memory. Then create one new example of your own.
Knowledge check: interactive quiz
Choose one answer for each question, then select “Check quiz” to see your score and explanations.
1. In “Während ich koche, deckt er den Tisch”, während introduces…
2. Which is the formal genitive phrase?
3. Choose the correct phrase.
4. What word order follows a fronted phrase “Trotz des Regens”?
5. Which can be a genitive preposition?
Independent production task
Writing challenge: Write a short paragraph of 80–120 words about learning, work, travel or a social issue. Use this lesson’s grammar structure at least three times. Underline the target forms and check the sentence structure, punctuation and meaning.
Speaking challenge: Explain the same topic aloud for one minute. Record yourself if possible, then note one accurate sentence and one sentence you want to improve.
Self-assessment checklist
- I can explain the purpose of this structure in my own words.
- I can recognise it in a written German text.
- I can form at least three original examples.
- I checked word order, case, endings and punctuation.
- I can correct at least one common error.
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Frequently asked questions
Is this lesson suitable for B2 learners?
It is designed as B2-level grammar practice. Learners may benefit from revising relevant A2/B1 structures before moving to more complex examples.
Are the exercises an official Goethe-Zertifikat test?
No. These are original practice materials for learning and revision, not official Goethe-Institut exam questions. Use them alongside the current official exam format and course materials.
Why does the quiz checker sometimes not accept my answer?
The automated checker uses model answers and a small set of accepted alternatives. German may allow other correct phrasings; compare your sentence with the rule and explanation rather than assuming every unrecognised answer is grammatically wrong.