folgendermaßen

The German adverb folgendermaßen is a sophisticated and highly useful term that translates most accurately to 'as follows' or 'in the following way' in English. It is a compound word derived from the present participle of the verb 'folgen' (to follow), the noun 'Maße' (measures/ways), and an adverbial suffix '-n'. When a speaker uses this word, they are essentially providing a linguistic signpost that indicates a detailed explanation, a list, or a specific set of instructions is about to be presented. It is the verbal equivalent of a colon, often literally preceding one in written text. In the landscape of German communication, precision is highly valued, and 'folgendermaßen' provides exactly that—a clear transition from a general introductory statement to a specific, detailed breakdown of information. It is ubiquitous in formal, professional, and academic settings where clarity of structure is paramount. For example, if a professor is about to outline the requirements for a thesis, or if a manager is explaining a new company policy, 'folgendermaßen' is the go-to word to ensure everyone understands that the important details are coming next. It suggests a certain level of premeditation and organization on the part of the speaker, making it a hallmark of 'Bildungssprache' (educated language). While it might feel overly formal for a casual chat about what to eat for dinner, it is indispensable for anyone looking to navigate the professional or academic world in Germany. It allows you to control the flow of information, signaling to your audience that they should prepare to process a sequence of events or a list of items. It is not just about the 'what' but very much about the 'how'.

Grammatical Category

Adverb of manner (Modaladverb). It describes the way or manner in which an action is performed or an explanation is structured.

Beyond its literal meaning, the word carries a tone of authority and clarity. It is often used in legal contexts to describe the specific wording of a law or a contract clause. In such cases, there is no room for ambiguity, and 'folgendermaßen' acts as the gateway to the definitive version of the facts. It is also common in technical manuals, where step-by-step instructions are necessary for safety and functionality. For a learner, mastering this word signifies a transition from basic conversational German to a more structured and logical way of expressing complex ideas. It shows that you are not just stringing sentences together, but that you are thinking about the architecture of your discourse. In terms of usage frequency, while 'so' is more common in daily life, 'folgendermaßen' appears frequently in news broadcasts, newspapers, and formal speeches. It is a word that demands attention because it promises information. When you hear it, you know that the next few sentences will contain the 'meat' of the message. It is also worth noting that the word is invariable, meaning it does not change its form regardless of the gender, number, or case of the surrounding nouns, which makes it relatively easy to use once you understand its placement in a sentence.

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Formal to Neutral. It is rarely used in slang but common in news, business, and education.

Etymological Hint

'folgend' (following) + 'Maße' (manner/measure) + 'n' (adverbial ending). It literally means 'in a following manner'.

Using 'folgendermaßen' correctly involves understanding both its grammatical function as an adverb and its structural role as a transition. In a standard German sentence, 'folgendermaßen' typically occupies the position of a modal adverb, which means it often comes after the inflected verb or at the very beginning of the sentence for emphasis. If it starts the sentence, the verb must immediately follow it due to the V2 (verb-second) rule in German main clauses. For example: 'Folgendermaßen sieht der Plan aus.' Here, 'folgendermaßen' is in position one, 'sieht' is the verb in position two, and 'der Plan' is the subject. This structure is particularly effective when you want to draw immediate attention to the method or manner you are about to describe. However, in more neutral contexts, it often appears later: 'Der Plan sieht folgendermaßen aus.' In this case, it follows the verb and precedes the specific details. One of the most critical aspects of using 'folgendermaßen' is the punctuation that usually follows it in written German. Because the word introduces a list or an explanation, it is frequently followed by a colon. This colon serves as a visual break that tells the reader, 'The general statement is finished; here are the specifics.' This is a very common pattern in technical writing, business emails, and academic papers.

Sentence Position 1

Used for emphasis. 'Folgendermaßen gehen wir vor: ...' (This is how we proceed: ...)

Another important usage pattern involves the verb 'erklären' (to explain) or 'beschreiben' (to describe). You will often see 'folgendermaßen' paired with these verbs to set up a comprehensive explanation. For instance, 'Ich erkläre es dir folgendermaßen...' This prepares the listener for a longer response. It is also frequently used with 'aussehen' (to look like/be structured) when describing a situation or a plan: 'Die Situation sieht folgendermaßen aus...' This is a very common way to begin a status update or a summary of a complex set of circumstances. In subordinate clauses, 'folgendermaßen' follows the standard rule where the conjugated verb moves to the end of the clause. For example: 'Er sagte, dass die Regeln folgendermaßen lauten.' Here, 'folgendermaßen' stays before the verb 'lauten' which is at the end. This versatility across different sentence structures makes it a powerful tool for any intermediate to advanced German learner. It is also worth noting that while 'folgendermaßen' is an adverb, it is sometimes confused with the adjective 'folgend'. Remember that 'folgend' is used to modify a noun (e.g., 'der folgende Tag' - the following day), while 'folgendermaßen' modifies the action or the entire statement. You cannot say 'der folgendermaßen Tag'. This distinction is crucial for grammatical accuracy.

Common Verb Pairings

aussehen (to look/be), erklären (to explain), beschreiben (to describe), lauten (to read/be stated), vorgehen (to proceed).

Subordinate Clauses

'Ich glaube, dass es folgendermaßen funktioniert.' (The adverb stays before the final verb.)

In the real world, 'folgendermaßen' is a staple of 'Amtssprache' (official language) and 'Bildungssprache'. You are most likely to encounter it in environments where information needs to be transmitted clearly and formally. For instance, if you are watching a German news program like 'Tagesschau', the news anchor might use it to introduce a quote or a specific breakdown of a new government regulation: 'Die Kanzlerin äußerte sich folgendermaßen...' This signals to the viewer that a direct quote is about to follow. Similarly, in the workplace, 'folgendermaßen' is frequently heard during meetings or presentations. A project lead might say, 'Unser Zeitplan sieht folgendermaßen aus,' before showing a slide with dates and milestones. It is a word that builds professional credibility because it suggests that the speaker has a clear structure in mind. In academic settings, such as lectures or seminars, professors use it to introduce definitions or complex theories: 'Wir definieren diesen Begriff folgendermaßen...' This helps students take structured notes. You will also find it constantly in written form—in textbooks, instruction manuals, and legal documents. If you buy a German piece of furniture, the assembly instructions will likely use 'folgendermaßen' to describe the steps. It is less common in very casual, youth-oriented slang, where simpler words like 'so' or 'genau' might be used. However, even in everyday life, if a friend is explaining a complicated story or a plan, they might use 'folgendermaßen' to add a bit of clarity or even a touch of dramatic emphasis to their narrative. It is a word that bridges the gap between the abstract and the concrete.

Professional Context

Common in emails, reports, and meetings to introduce structured data or plans.

In the legal and administrative sphere, 'folgendermaßen' is indispensable. When a judge reads a verdict or a lawyer explains a contract, they use this word to ensure that the exact wording is highlighted. For example, 'Der Paragraph 5 lautet folgendermaßen...' This usage reinforces the idea that the information following the word is the definitive version. In the digital age, you might also see it on websites or in apps, particularly in 'Help' or 'FAQ' sections. 'Um Ihr Passwort zurückzusetzen, gehen Sie bitte folgendermaßen vor...' This is a standard way to guide users through a process. Interestingly, while it is a formal word, it doesn't sound 'stuffy' or 'arrogant' when used correctly; rather, it sounds helpful and organized. It reflects the German cultural emphasis on 'Ordnung' (order) and 'Klarheit' (clarity). By using 'folgendermaßen', you are respecting the listener's time by providing a logical framework for your thoughts. Even in literature, authors use it to set a scene or introduce a character's specific philosophy. It is a versatile tool that appears across various genres of writing and speech, always serving the same purpose: to prepare the audience for a detailed and structured delivery of information. For a learner, hearing this word should be a signal to 'lean in' and listen carefully, as the most important part of the message is usually what follows it.

News & Media

Used by journalists to introduce quotes or detailed statistics.

Academic Context

Essential for introducing definitions and logical arguments.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with 'folgendermaßen' is confusing it with other words that share the same root or a similar meaning. The most common mix-up is with 'folglich'. While both words start with 'folg-', they have very different functions. 'Folglich' means 'consequently' or 'therefore' and is used to show a logical result (e.g., 'Es hat geregnet, folglich ist die Straße nass'). In contrast, 'folgendermaßen' describes the *way* something is done or explained. Using 'folglich' when you mean 'folgendermaßen' will lead to significant confusion. Another common error is treating 'folgendermaßen' as an adjective rather than an adverb. Learners sometimes try to decline it like an adjective, adding endings like -e, -er, or -es to match a noun. For example, saying 'der folgendermaßene Plan' is incorrect. The correct way to say 'the following plan' is 'der folgende Plan'. 'Folgendermaßen' is an adverb and is always invariable; it never changes its ending. A third mistake involves word order. Because 'folgendermaßen' is quite long, learners often place it at the end of a sentence where it might lose its connection to the explanation it is supposed to introduce. Remember that 'folgendermaßen' should ideally be placed close to the verb or at the beginning of the sentence to act as a clear signpost. For example, 'Ich erkläre es dir folgendermaßen' is much clearer than 'Ich erkläre es dir heute Abend nach dem Essen folgendermaßen'.

Confused with 'Folglich'

'Folglich' = Therefore/Consequently. 'Folgendermaßen' = As follows/In this way.

Punctuation errors are also common. In written German, 'folgendermaßen' is almost always a precursor to a colon. Leaving out the colon can make the sentence feel 'unfinished' or run-on. For example, 'Der Plan sieht folgendermaßen aus wir fangen morgen an' is grammatically weak. It should be: 'Der Plan sieht folgendermaßen aus: Wir fangen morgen an.' Furthermore, some learners use 'wie' with 'folgendermaßen' (e.g., 'wie folgendermaßen'), which is redundant because 'folgendermaßen' already includes the meaning of 'how' or 'in what way'. Simply use the word on its own. Lastly, be careful with the spelling. It is 'folgendermaßen' with a sharp 'ß' (Eszett). Using a double 'ss' ('folgendermassen') is the standard spelling in Switzerland and Liechtenstein, but in Germany and Austria, the 'ß' is required because the vowel before it ('a') is long. Forgetting the 'n' at the end is another small but frequent typo. It is not 'folgendermaße'. The 'n' is essential for its adverbial function. Paying attention to these small details will help you sound much more like a native speaker and ensure that your formal writing is impeccable.

Spelling Note

Always use 'ß' in Germany/Austria. Don't forget the final 'n'. It is one long word, no spaces.

Word Order Tip

Place the adverb near the verb it modifies for maximum clarity.

While 'folgendermaßen' is a powerful word, German offers several alternatives depending on the level of formality and the specific context. The most direct and common alternative is 'wie folgt'. This phrase is almost identical in meaning to 'folgendermaßen' and is also very formal. It is frequently used in business and legal contexts, especially at the end of a sentence: 'Die Ergebnisse lauten wie folgt:'. 'Wie folgt' is slightly shorter and can feel a bit more modern in some business communications, but 'folgendermaßen' remains the more robust choice for introducing a narrative explanation. Another alternative is 'auf diese Weise' (in this way). This phrase is more neutral and can be used in both formal and informal settings. However, it doesn't always signal that a list is coming; it often refers back to something already mentioned. For example, 'Auf diese Weise haben wir viel Zeit gespart' (In this way, we saved a lot of time). If you want to be very simple and informal, you can just use 'so'. 'Ich mache das so: ...' is perfectly fine in a conversation with friends. It is direct and efficient but lacks the structural 'signposting' power of 'folgendermaßen'.

folgendermaßen vs. wie folgt

'Folgendermaßen' is an adverb used within the sentence structure. 'Wie folgt' is a fixed phrase often used at the end of a clause before a colon. Both are formal.

For more advanced speakers, words like 'dergestalt' or 'dermaßen' might come up, but they are quite different. 'Dermaßen' is usually an intensifier meaning 'to such an extent' (e.g., 'Ich war dermaßen müde' - I was so tired). It does NOT mean 'as follows'. 'Dergestalt' is very old-fashioned and formal, meaning 'in such a way that'. You might find it in 19th-century literature but rarely in a modern office. Another phrase to consider is 'auf folgende Art und Weise' (in the following manner). This is essentially a longer, more descriptive version of 'folgendermaßen'. It is very formal and can be used to add weight to an explanation. For example, 'Wir werden das Problem auf folgende Art und Weise angehen...' This sounds very deliberate and serious. Finally, 'so' remains the most versatile. While 'folgendermaßen' is specific to introducing something new, 'so' can point both forwards and backwards. In summary, choose 'folgendermaßen' for formal structure, 'wie folgt' for concise business lists, 'auf diese Weise' for neutral descriptions of method, and 'so' for everyday simplicity. Understanding these nuances will allow you to tailor your German to any situation, from a high-stakes board meeting to a casual coffee with a neighbor.

folgendermaßen vs. dermaßen

Don't confuse them! 'Folgendermaßen' = as follows. 'Dermaßen' = so much/to such a degree.

Summary Table

Folgendermaßen: Formal signpost. Wie folgt: Formal list-introducer. So: Informal and versatile. Auf diese Weise: Neutral method description.