Verb-second word order
In a normal main clause, the conjugated verb usually sits in second position.
Examples
GermanTranslation
Heute lerne ich zu Hause.
Today I study at home.
Am Abend liest meine Schwester gern.
In the evening my sister likes to read.
Manchmal trinken wir dort Kaffee.
Sometimes we drink coffee there.
Pattern
main clause: slot 1 + verb + rest
How it works
In a normal main clause, the conjugated verb usually sits in second position. This pattern typically appears as main clause: slot 1 + verb + rest and becomes easier when you meet it again in short, readable examples.
What to notice
- Only one chunk stands before the conjugated verb in a simple main clause.
- The subject can move after the verb if another element takes first position.
Why it matters
German becomes much less scary once the sentence skeleton is visible.
Use in context
German often feels clearer once you stop thinking in English order and start watching that second slot.