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B1 conjunction #2,500 le plus courant 18 min de lecture

als ob

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces als ob en 30 secondes
Explication als ob in your Level:
At the A1 level, the conjunction 'als ob' is generally considered too advanced for active production, as it requires knowledge of subordinate clause word order and the subjunctive mood (Konjunktiv II), both of which are introduced much later in the learning journey. However, A1 learners might encounter 'als ob' as a fixed chunk of vocabulary, particularly in its colloquial use as a standalone exclamation. When a native speaker says 'Als ob!' in response to an unbelievable statement, an A1 learner can understand this simply as meaning 'Yeah, right!' or 'No way!' without needing to analyze the underlying grammar. Furthermore, A1 learners might hear 'als ob' in very common, repetitive phrases used by teachers or native speakers, such as 'Es sieht so aus, als ob...' (It looks as if...). At this stage, the goal is purely receptive recognition. Learners should focus on identifying the sound of the phrase and associating it generally with comparisons or things that are not true. There is no expectation for an A1 student to construct sentences using 'als ob'. Attempting to do so usually results in severe grammatical errors because the foundational rules of verb placement and mood have not yet been established. Instead, A1 learners should concentrate on mastering basic main clauses, simple present tense, and fundamental vocabulary. If an A1 learner needs to express a comparison, they should rely on simpler structures like 'wie' (like/as) with factual statements, such as 'Er ist wie ein Kind' (He is like a child), rather than attempting the hypothetical 'Er tut so, als ob er ein Kind wäre'. Exposure to 'als ob' at this level is about planting a seed for future grammatical development, allowing the learner's ear to become accustomed to the rhythm and flow of complex German sentences before they are required to build them.
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As learners progress to the A2 level, their understanding of German sentence structure begins to expand, particularly with the introduction of basic subordinating conjunctions like 'weil' (because) and 'dass' (that). This is the perfect time to introduce 'als ob' conceptually, even if active mastery is still a stretch. At A2, learners should understand that 'als ob' means 'as if' and that it introduces a dependent clause where the verb must go to the end. They should start recognizing 'als ob' in reading texts and listening exercises, noting how it connects a main clause (often describing an appearance or behavior) with a hypothetical scenario. While the Konjunktiv II (subjunctive mood) is not fully taught at A2, learners are usually introduced to the polite forms 'hätte' (would have) and 'wäre' (would be). Teachers can leverage this limited knowledge to help A2 students understand simple 'als ob' sentences. For example, an A2 learner can comprehend 'Er tut so, als ob er krank wäre' because they recognize 'wäre' from polite requests. The focus at this level should be on comprehension and guided practice. A2 learners might be asked to complete fill-in-the-blank exercises where 'als ob' is the missing conjunction, or to match a main clause with an appropriate 'als ob' clause. However, spontaneous production of complex 'als ob' sentences is still not expected. The primary goal is to solidify the verb-final rule associated with subordinating conjunctions and to build a passive understanding that 'als ob' signals a situation that is imagined rather than real. This prepares the groundwork for the B1 level, where 'als ob' becomes a core component of the curriculum and active usage is heavily emphasized.
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The B1 level is the critical juncture where 'als ob' transitions from a recognized phrase to an actively used grammatical tool. In B1 curricula, mastering 'als ob' is a major milestone, as it combines two key intermediate concepts: subordinate clause syntax and the Konjunktiv II (subjunctive mood). B1 learners are expected to understand that 'als ob' introduces a hypothetical comparison and mandates that the conjugated verb be placed at the end of the clause. Furthermore, they must actively apply the Konjunktiv II to indicate unreality. At this stage, learners practice conjugating common verbs into the subjunctive, utilizing both the original forms (wäre, hätte, käme) and the 'würde' + infinitive construction for regular verbs. A B1 student should be able to confidently construct sentences like 'Sie sieht aus, als ob sie müde wäre' or 'Er spricht, als ob er alles wissen würde'. They learn to pair 'als ob' with specific trigger verbs in the main clause, such as 'aussehen' (to look), 'klingen' (to sound), and 'so tun' (to pretend). Practice at this level involves transforming factual statements into hypothetical comparisons and describing pictures or scenarios using 'als ob'. For example, looking at a picture of a messy room, a B1 learner might say, 'Es sieht aus, als ob eine Bombe explodiert wäre'. While mistakes in verb placement or mood are still common, the expectation is that the learner understands the rules and can self-correct when prompted. Mastery of 'als ob' is often tested in B1 exams, particularly in the speaking and writing sections, where candidates are required to express opinions, describe hypothetical situations, and demonstrate a command of complex sentence structures. It is a clear marker of intermediate fluency.
At the B2 level, learners are expected to have a solid, almost automatic command of the basic 'als ob' structure. The focus shifts from merely constructing the sentence correctly to using it with nuance, fluency, and stylistic variety. B2 learners delve deeper into the temporal aspects of the Konjunktiv II, mastering the distinction between present hypothetical situations (using present subjunctive) and past hypothetical situations (using Plusquamperfekt Konjunktiv II). They should effortlessly produce sentences like 'Er tat so, als ob er mich nicht gesehen hätte' (He acted as if he hadn't seen me), correctly aligning the past hypothetical event with the past action of the main clause. Furthermore, B2 introduces the elegant alternative of dropping the 'ob'. Learners are taught that 'als ob er der Chef wäre' can be transformed into 'als wäre er der Chef', with the verb shifting to the second position in the clause. This structure is highly prevalent in German media, literature, and formal speech, and B2 learners are expected to both understand it and begin incorporating it into their own active vocabulary. The vocabulary surrounding 'als ob' also expands at this level. Learners use it to express more complex psychological states, irony, and subtle critiques. They might use it in debates or discussions to dismantle an opponent's argument: 'Sie argumentieren, als ob das Problem nicht existieren würde' (You argue as if the problem didn't exist). In writing, B2 students use 'als ob' to create more engaging narratives and descriptive texts. The goal at B2 is to move beyond rigid, textbook examples and use 'als ob' as a flexible, dynamic tool for sophisticated communication, demonstrating a high degree of grammatical control and stylistic awareness.
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In the C1 level, the usage of 'als ob' reaches a stage of near-native refinement. C1 learners do not just use the grammar correctly; they wield it as a rhetorical device to convey subtle shades of meaning, irony, and literary flair. At this advanced stage, the variant 'als' + verb in position 2 ('als wäre er...') often becomes the preferred choice over 'als ob' in written and formal spoken German, as it sounds more elegant and concise. C1 learners are expected to effortlessly navigate complex, multi-clause sentences where 'als ob' is embedded within broader hypothetical frameworks. They master the use of passive voice within 'als ob' clauses, constructing sophisticated sentences like 'Er fühlte sich, als ob er von allen verlassen worden wäre' (He felt as if he had been abandoned by everyone). Furthermore, C1 students explore the subtle differences between 'als ob', 'als wenn', and 'wie wenn', understanding the register and regional nuances of each. They analyze how authors use 'als ob' in literature to establish mood and unreliable narration. In academic and professional settings, C1 learners use 'als ob' to articulate complex hypotheses, critique methodologies, or describe abstract concepts. For instance, in a business meeting, a C1 speaker might say, 'Wir dürfen nicht so tun, als ob diese Marktentwicklung spurlos an uns vorübergehen würde' (We must not pretend as if this market trend will pass us by without a trace). The focus is on precision, stylistic appropriateness, and the ability to use hypothetical comparisons to persuade, analyze, and engage deeply with complex texts and discussions. Errors in 'als ob' constructions at the C1 level are rare and usually self-corrected immediately.
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At the C2 level, the mastery of 'als ob' is absolute and indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker. C2 learners possess a deep, intuitive understanding of the phrase's grammatical mechanics, historical usage, and rhetorical power. They employ 'als ob' effortlessly in the most demanding linguistic contexts, from spontaneous, high-level academic debates to creative writing and literary analysis. At this level of proficiency, speakers play with the structure for stylistic effect. They might intentionally use the older, more formal Konjunktiv I in an 'als ob' clause to mimic a specific historical tone or to create a sense of extreme distance and objectivity, though they know Konjunktiv II is the standard. They seamlessly integrate 'als ob' into complex idiomatic expressions and extended metaphors. A C2 user understands the psychological weight of the phrase, using it to expose hypocrisy, highlight absurdities, or craft biting sarcasm. They can deconstruct how politicians or public figures use 'als ob' rhetoric to manipulate public perception (e.g., 'Die Politik tut so, als ob unbegrenztes Wachstum möglich wäre'). Furthermore, C2 learners are attuned to the prosody and intonation associated with 'als ob', knowing exactly which words to stress to maximize the impact of the hypothetical comparison. They can effortlessly switch between the 'als ob' and 'als' + V2 structures depending on the rhythm and flow of their speech or writing. Ultimately, for a C2 learner, 'als ob' is not a grammatical rule to be remembered, but a natural, flexible extension of their thought process, allowing them to express the full spectrum of human imagination and critical thought in the German language.
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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

als ob en 30 secondes

  • Translates directly to 'as if' or 'as though' in English.
  • Forces the conjugated verb to the very end of the clause.
  • Requires the Konjunktiv II (subjunctive mood) to show unreality.
  • Can be shortened to 'als' by dropping 'ob' and moving the verb.
The German conjunction 'als ob' is an absolutely essential and highly versatile grammatical tool that every serious learner of the German language must master in order to achieve true fluency and expressive capability. When we analyze the fundamental structure of this phrase, we immediately see that it is composed of two distinct words: 'als', which typically functions as a comparative particle meaning 'than' or 'as', and 'ob', which is a subordinating conjunction meaning 'whether' or 'if'. However, when these two words are combined into the fixed expression 'als ob', their individual meanings merge to create a powerful new semantic unit that translates directly to the English phrase 'as if' or 'as though'.

Er tut so, als ob er der Chef wäre.

This compound conjunction serves a very specific and crucial purpose in German syntax and semantics: it is used exclusively to introduce hypothetical comparisons, unreal situations, and scenarios that are contrary to established facts. In the realm of linguistics, this is often referred to as an irrealis mood or counterfactual conditional. The psychological and communicative function of 'als ob' cannot be overstated. It allows speakers to draw vivid, imaginative parallels between a real, observable event and an imaginary, non-existent state of affairs.
Hypothetical Comparison
Comparing a real action to an imagined state.
For example, when a person observes someone spending money with reckless abandon, they might employ 'als ob' to compare this behavior to the hypothetical scenario of having won the lottery. This comparison is not meant to be taken literally; rather, it serves to emphasize the extravagance of the behavior through hyperbole and imagination. From a strictly grammatical perspective, the use of 'als ob' triggers two mandatory and unyielding rules that learners must internalize. First, because 'als ob' is a subordinating conjunction, it automatically forces the conjugated verb to the very end of the dependent clause. This verb-final word order is a hallmark of German subordinate clauses and requires significant practice for non-native speakers to execute smoothly in spontaneous conversation.

Sie sieht aus, als ob sie krank wäre.

Second, and perhaps more importantly, the inherent unreality of the situation introduced by 'als ob' dictates the use of the subjunctive mood, specifically the Konjunktiv II. The Konjunktiv II is the grammatical vehicle through which German expresses doubt, hypothetical conditions, politeness, and unreality.
Konjunktiv II
The mood of unreality, essential for 'als ob' clauses.
Therefore, a sentence like 'He acts as if he were the boss' must be translated as 'Er tut so, als ob er der Chef wäre', utilizing the Konjunktiv II form 'wäre' instead of the indicative 'ist'. Failure to use the Konjunktiv II in this context results in a sentence that sounds jarringly incorrect to native ears, as it creates a cognitive dissonance between the hypothetical marker 'als ob' and the factual marker of the indicative mood.

Es scheint, als ob es regnen würde.

Furthermore, the temporal relationship between the main clause and the 'als ob' clause adds another layer of complexity. If the hypothetical action occurs simultaneously with the main action, the present Konjunktiv II is used. However, if the hypothetical action occurred prior to the main action, the past Konjunktiv II (Plusquamperfekt Konjunktiv II) must be employed. Beyond its strict grammatical requirements, 'als ob' is also deeply embedded in the stylistic and rhetorical fabric of the German language. It is frequently used in literature to create rich, evocative imagery and in everyday speech to convey irony, sarcasm, or skepticism.
Rhetorical Device
Using 'als ob' to express sarcasm or disbelief.
When someone makes an unbelievable claim, a native speaker might simply respond with a dismissive 'Als ob!', functioning as a standalone exclamation meaning 'As if!' or 'Yeah, right!'.

Du hast im Lotto gewonnen? Als ob!

This colloquial usage highlights the phrase's versatility and its deep integration into the cultural lexicon. In summary, mastering 'als ob' is not merely a matter of memorizing a vocabulary word; it is a comprehensive exercise in understanding German sentence structure, mastering the subjunctive mood, and unlocking a new dimension of creative and nuanced expression.

Er rennt, als ob ein Löwe hinter ihm her wäre.

It is a gateway to higher-level proficiency and a testament to a learner's dedication to grasping the intricacies of this beautiful and complex language. By fully comprehending what 'als ob' means and implies, learners can significantly elevate the sophistication of their German communication.
Understanding how to correctly use the conjunction 'als ob' in German requires a meticulous approach to both syntax and verb morphology. The application of this phrase is governed by strict grammatical rules that, once mastered, provide a highly reliable framework for constructing complex hypothetical sentences. The foundational rule of 'als ob' is its status as a subordinating conjunction. In German grammar, subordinating conjunctions introduce dependent clauses, which cannot stand alone as complete sentences.

Er spricht, als ob er alles wüsste.

The most critical syntactic consequence of introducing a dependent clause is the displacement of the conjugated verb. Unlike in a main clause where the conjugated verb typically occupies the second position, in an 'als ob' clause, the conjugated verb is relegated to the absolute final position. This verb-final word order is non-negotiable and represents one of the most common stumbling blocks for learners.
Verb Placement
The conjugated verb must go to the end of the 'als ob' clause.
For instance, consider the English sentence 'He looks as if he is tired.' In German, the translation is 'Er sieht aus, als ob er müde wäre.' Notice how the verb 'wäre' sits firmly at the end of the sentence, following the subject 'er' and the adjective 'müde'. The second, and equally vital, component of using 'als ob' is the mandatory application of the subjunctive mood, known as Konjunktiv II. Because 'als ob' inherently describes a situation that is contrary to fact, the indicative mood (which states facts) is grammatically inappropriate. The Konjunktiv II signals to the listener or reader that the scenario being described is purely hypothetical, imaginary, or unreal.

Sie weint, als ob die Welt untergehen würde.

Forming the Konjunktiv II involves either using the specific subjunctive forms of verbs (e.g., 'wäre' for 'sein', 'hätte' for 'haben', 'käme' for 'kommen') or utilizing the 'würde' + infinitive construction, which is especially common for regular verbs and in spoken German.
Würde-Form
A common alternative for forming Konjunktiv II in modern German.
For example, instead of saying 'als ob er weinte' (which can be ambiguous as it shares the form with the simple past indicative), a speaker might say 'als ob er weinen würde'. This clearly marks the statement as hypothetical. Furthermore, the temporal aspect of the hypothetical comparison must be carefully managed. If the imagined event is happening at the same time as the action in the main clause, you use the present Konjunktiv II.

Er tut so, als ob er mich nicht kennen würde.

However, if the imagined event happened before the action in the main clause, you must use the past Konjunktiv II, which is formed with 'hätte' or 'wäre' plus the past participle. For example, 'Er sah aus, als ob er tagelang nicht geschlafen hätte' (He looked as if he hadn't slept for days). Here, the lack of sleep is a hypothetical past event relative to him looking a certain way. Another advanced usage note involves the omission of 'ob'. In higher registers or literary contexts, it is quite common to drop the 'ob' entirely and simply use 'als'. When this happens, the word order changes dramatically: the conjugated verb moves immediately to the position following 'als', mimicking the structure of a main clause, though it remains in the Konjunktiv II.
Dropping 'ob'
Using 'als' + Verb in Position 2 for elegant variation.
Thus, 'Er tut so, als ob er der Chef wäre' becomes 'Er tut so, als wäre er der Chef.' This alternative structure is highly elegant and frequently encountered in written German, making it an essential pattern for advanced learners to recognize and eventually produce.

Es riecht, als ob jemand Kuchen gebacken hätte.

Finally, 'als ob' is frequently collocated with specific verbs in the main clause, particularly those related to perception, appearance, and behavior. Verbs like 'aussehen' (to look), 'klingen' (to sound), 'sich anfühlen' (to feel), 'scheinen' (to seem), and 'so tun' (to pretend/act) are the natural partners of 'als ob'.

Das fühlt sich an, als ob es aus Seide wäre.

Recognizing these trigger verbs can help learners anticipate the need for an 'als ob' clause and prepare the correct grammatical structure in advance.
The phrase 'als ob' is ubiquitous in the German language, permeating virtually every level of discourse, from the most informal street slang to the highest echelons of classical literature. Its presence is a testament to the human need to express imagination, draw comparisons, and articulate scenarios that exist outside the boundaries of objective reality. In everyday spoken German, 'als ob' is incredibly common, particularly in conversational settings where people are recounting stories, describing their feelings, or commenting on the behavior of others.

Er tut immer so, als ob er keine Zeit hätte.

You will frequently hear it in cafes, on public transport, and in workplaces when individuals are gossiping or sharing anecdotes. For instance, a colleague might complain about a demanding boss by saying, 'Er behandelt uns, als ob wir Maschinen wären' (He treats us as if we were machines). This everyday usage is fluid, natural, and heavily relies on the 'würde' construction of the Konjunktiv II for ease of pronunciation and clarity.
Everyday Gossip
Used to exaggerate or complain about someone's behavior.
Beyond standard sentence structures, 'als ob' has carved out a unique space as an independent, colloquial exclamation. Particularly among younger generations and in casual banter, 'Als ob!' is used as a standalone phrase to express profound disbelief, skepticism, or outright rejection of a claim. If someone boasts, 'Ich habe gestern hundert Liegestütze gemacht' (I did a hundred push-ups yesterday), a skeptical friend might simply retort, 'Als ob!' This usage is the exact equivalent of the English slang 'As if!' popularized in the 1990s, and it remains a staple of modern German youth culture.

Du willst das ganz alleine schaffen? Als ob!

Moving up the register, 'als ob' is a vital component of journalistic and analytical writing. In newspapers, magazines, and opinion pieces, writers use hypothetical comparisons to illustrate complex political or social situations.
Journalism
Used to draw parallels in political or social commentary.
A journalist might write, 'Die Regierung agiert, als ob die Krise bereits vorüber wäre' (The government is acting as if the crisis were already over). In these contexts, the usage is more formal, and you are more likely to encounter the true Konjunktiv II forms (e.g., 'wäre', 'hätte', 'käme') rather than the 'würde' workaround.

Der Markt reagiert, als ob eine Rezession unvermeidlich wäre.

Furthermore, the realm of German literature is rich with 'als ob' constructions. Authors rely heavily on this conjunction to craft vivid metaphors, similes, and atmospheric descriptions. In fairy tales, novels, and poetry, 'als ob' serves as a bridge between the literal narrative and the symbolic or emotional landscape. For example, a description of a stormy night might read, 'Der Wind heulte, als ob tausend Wölfe im Wald gefangen wären' (The wind howled as if a thousand wolves were trapped in the forest). In literary contexts, it is also highly common to encounter the variant where 'ob' is dropped, resulting in 'als' followed immediately by the verb: 'Der Wind heulte, als wären tausend Wölfe gefangen.'

Es war ihr, als ob die Zeit stillstehen würde.

This stylistic choice enhances the flow and rhythm of the prose. Finally, you will hear 'als ob' frequently in media, such as movies, television shows, and podcasts. Screenwriters use it to create natural-sounding dialogue, especially in dramatic scenes where characters are confronting each other about their true intentions or hidden realities.
Media Dialogue
Crucial for dramatic confrontations and expressing hidden truths.
Whether you are reading a classic novel by Thomas Mann, watching a modern German crime thriller, or simply eavesdropping on a conversation in a Berlin U-Bahn, 'als ob' is a phrase you will encounter constantly, making its mastery indispensable for any serious learner.
Despite its straightforward translation to the English 'as if', the German conjunction 'als ob' is a notorious minefield for language learners, generating a specific set of common mistakes that persist even into the intermediate and advanced stages of language acquisition. By far the most frequent and glaring error is the failure to use the subjunctive mood (Konjunktiv II). Because English speakers often use the indicative mood in casual speech for hypothetical situations (e.g., 'He acts as if he is the boss' instead of the strictly correct 'were'), they naturally transfer this habit to German.

WRONG: Er tut so, als ob er der Chef ist.

This results in sentences like 'Er tut so, als ob er der Chef ist.' To a native German speaker, this sounds highly contradictory. The 'als ob' sets up an expectation of unreality, but the indicative 'ist' abruptly asserts reality, causing a jarring grammatical clash.
Mood Clash
Mixing a hypothetical conjunction with a factual verb form.
It is imperative to train the brain to automatically trigger the Konjunktiv II whenever 'als ob' is deployed. The correct formulation must always be 'Er tut so, als ob er der Chef wäre.' The second major category of mistakes revolves around word order. 'Als ob' is a subordinating conjunction, which dictates that the conjugated verb must be placed at the very end of the clause. Learners, especially beginners, often struggle with this and attempt to maintain the subject-verb-object order of their native language.

WRONG: Sie sieht aus, als ob sie ist müde.

A common error is saying 'Sie sieht aus, als ob sie wäre müde' instead of the correct 'Sie sieht aus, als ob sie müde wäre.' This mistake is particularly prevalent in longer, more complex sentences where the learner loses track of the verb while navigating multiple nouns and adjectives.
Verb Placement Error
Failing to send the conjugated verb to the end of the subordinate clause.
Consistent practice with subordinate clauses is the only remedy for this deeply ingrained syntactic habit. Another frequent point of confusion arises when learners attempt to use the more advanced structure where 'ob' is omitted. When 'ob' is dropped, the conjunction becomes simply 'als', and the grammatical rules change drastically.

WRONG: Er tut so, als er wäre der Chef.

Instead of the verb going to the end, it must immediately follow 'als'. Learners often mix these two structures, creating a hybrid mistake. For example, they might say 'Er tut so, als er der Chef wäre' (keeping verb-final order without 'ob') or 'Er tut so, als ob wäre er der Chef' (using verb-second order with 'ob'). The correct forms are strictly separated: either 'als ob er der Chef wäre' OR 'als wäre er der Chef'. Furthermore, learners often struggle with the temporal alignment of the Konjunktiv II. When describing a hypothetical past event, the Plusquamperfekt Konjunktiv II (past subjunctive) must be used.

WRONG: Er sah aus, als ob er einen Geist sieht.

A common mistake is using the present subjunctive for a past event, such as saying 'Er sah aus, als ob er einen Geist sähe' when the intended meaning is 'He looked as if he had seen a ghost.' The correct form requires the past construction: 'Er sah aus, als ob er einen Geist gesehen hätte.'
Tense Mismatch
Using present subjunctive for hypothetical past events.
Finally, there is the semantic confusion between 'als ob' and other conjunctions like 'obwohl' (although) or simply 'ob' (whether). A learner might incorrectly say 'Ich weiß nicht, als ob er kommt' instead of 'Ich weiß nicht, ob er kommt'.

CORRECT: Er tut so, als ob er schliefe.

Recognizing that 'als ob' is strictly for hypothetical comparisons, not for expressing concession or indirect questions, is crucial for accurate communication.
The German language offers a rich tapestry of conjunctions and phrases that share semantic territory with 'als ob', providing speakers with various stylistic options for expressing hypothetical comparisons. Understanding these similar words and their subtle nuances is a hallmark of advanced proficiency. The most direct and interchangeable synonym for 'als ob' is 'als wenn'. Both phrases translate to 'as if' or 'as though' and function identically in terms of grammar: they are subordinating conjunctions that send the conjugated verb to the end of the clause and require the use of the Konjunktiv II.

Er tut so, als wenn er der König wäre.

While 'als ob' is generally considered the standard and most widely used form in both written and spoken German, 'als wenn' is perfectly acceptable and frequently heard, particularly in certain regional dialects and colloquial speech.
als wenn
A direct, interchangeable synonym for 'als ob'.
There is virtually no difference in meaning, and learners can use them interchangeably without fear of misunderstanding. Another closely related phrase is 'wie wenn'. This is also used to introduce hypothetical comparisons, but it is generally considered more colloquial and less elegant than 'als ob' or 'als wenn'. You might hear someone say, 'Es sieht aus, wie wenn es regnen würde' (It looks like it's going to rain). While native speakers use this in casual conversation, grammar purists and formal writing guides often advise against it, preferring 'als ob' for its stylistic clarity.

Es fühlt sich an, wie wenn der Sommer schon vorbei wäre.

Therefore, while learners should definitely understand 'wie wenn' when they hear it, they are usually encouraged to actively produce 'als ob' to ensure their German sounds polished and correct.
wie wenn
A colloquial alternative, best avoided in formal writing.
The most sophisticated alternative to 'als ob' is the use of 'als' on its own, followed immediately by the conjugated verb in the Konjunktiv II. As mentioned in previous sections, this involves dropping the 'ob' and shifting the word order from verb-final to verb-second (within the dependent clause).

Er rannte, als ginge es um sein Leben.

This structure ('als' + V2) is highly elegant, concise, and frequently used in literature, journalism, and formal speech. It conveys the exact same hypothetical meaning as 'als ob' but does so with a crisper, more dynamic rhythm. For example, 'Sie tat so, als hätte sie mich nicht gehört' (She acted as if she hadn't heard me) sounds slightly more refined than 'Sie tat so, als ob sie mich nicht gehört hätte'. It is crucial to distinguish 'als ob' from the simple conjunction 'als', which means 'when' (for a single event in the past) or 'than' (in comparisons).

Er ist größer als ich.

When 'als' means 'when', it takes the indicative mood and verb-final order ('Als ich ein Kind war...'). When 'als' means 'than', it does not affect word order.
als (when/than)
Do not confuse the factual 'als' with the hypothetical 'als ob'.
The presence of 'ob' (or the immediate following of a Konjunktiv II verb) is the definitive marker that you are dealing with a hypothetical comparison rather than a factual statement of time or degree. Finally, learners should be aware of the phrase 'so tun, als ob' (to pretend as if).

Lass uns so tun, als ob wir uns nicht kennen.

This is a fixed collocation where 'so tun' (to act/pretend) serves as the main clause, setting up the perfect context for the 'als ob' clause that follows.

How Formal Is It?

Niveau de difficulté

Grammaire à connaître

Konjunktiv II der Gegenwart

Konjunktiv II der Vergangenheit

Nebensätze (Subordinate Clauses)

Verbstellung im Nebensatz

Irreale Vergleichssätze

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Exemples par niveau

1

Als ob!

As if! / Yeah, right!

Used as a fixed colloquial phrase, no verb needed.

2

Er ist wie ein Kind.

He is like a child.

A1 alternative using 'wie' instead of 'als ob'.

3

Das ist falsch.

That is wrong.

Expressing unreality simply without 'als ob'.

4

Ich glaube das nicht.

I don't believe that.

Simple expression of disbelief.

5

Es sieht gut aus.

It looks good.

Basic use of 'aussehen' before learning 'als ob'.

6

Er spielt den Chef.

He plays the boss.

Simple way to say someone is pretending.

7

Bist du verrückt?

Are you crazy?

Reacting to an absurd statement.

8

Das kann nicht sein.

That cannot be.

Expressing impossibility.

1

Er tut so, als ob er schläft.

He acts as if he is sleeping.

A2 learners might hear the indicative used colloquially, though Konjunktiv II is correct.

2

Es sieht aus, als ob es regnet.

It looks as if it is raining.

Verb at the end, indicative mood often heard in casual speech.

3

Sie spricht, als ob sie böse ist.

She speaks as if she is angry.

Recognizing the 'als ob' structure.

4

Er rennt, als ob er Angst hat.

He runs as if he is afraid.

Basic hypothetical comparison.

5

Du siehst aus, als ob du müde bist.

You look as if you are tired.

Common everyday observation.

6

Es klingt, als ob ein Auto kommt.

It sounds as if a car is coming.

Using 'klingen' with 'als ob'.

7

Wir tun so, als ob wir arbeiten.

We pretend as if we are working.

Using the phrase 'so tun als ob'.

8

Er lacht, als ob es lustig ist.

He laughs as if it is funny.

Connecting behavior to a hypothetical state.

1

Er tut so, als ob er der Chef wäre.

He acts as if he were the boss.

Correct B1 usage: verb at the end, Konjunktiv II (wäre).

2

Sie sieht aus, als ob sie krank wäre.

She looks as if she were sick.

Classic 'aussehen als ob' construction.

3

Es scheint, als ob es regnen würde.

It seems as if it would rain.

Using the 'würde' form for Konjunktiv II.

4

Er gibt Geld aus, als ob er reich wäre.

He spends money as if he were rich.

Hypothetical comparison of behavior.

5

Du tust so, als ob du mich nicht kennen würdest.

You act as if you didn't know me.

Using 'würde' + infinitive at the end.

6

Der Hund bellt, als ob er einen Geist gesehen hätte.

The dog barks as if it had seen a ghost.

Past hypothetical using 'hätte' + participle.

7

Es fühlt sich an, als ob es Winter wäre.

It feels as if it were winter.

Using 'sich anfühlen' with 'als ob'.

8

Sie weint, als ob die Welt untergehen würde.

She cries as if the world were ending.

Dramatic hypothetical comparison.

1

Er tut so, als wäre er der Chef.

He acts as if he were the boss.

Dropping 'ob' and moving the verb to position 2.

2

Sie sah mich an, als hätte sie ein Gespenst gesehen.

She looked at me as if she had seen a ghost.

Past subjunctive without 'ob'.

3

Mir ist, als ob ich das schon einmal erlebt hätte.

I feel as if I had experienced this before.

Expressing déjà vu with 'Mir ist, als ob'.

4

Er redet über das Thema, als ob er ein Experte wäre.

He talks about the topic as if he were an expert.

Critiquing someone's behavior.

5

Die Zeit verging, als ob sie stillstehen würde.

Time passed as if it were standing still.

Poetic description of time.

6

Manchmal tun wir so, als ob wir unsterblich wären.

Sometimes we act as if we were immortal.

Philosophical observation.

7

Es riecht hier, als ob jemand Kuchen gebacken hätte.

It smells here as if someone had baked a cake.

Sensory description with past subjunctive.

8

Er ignorierte mich, als ob ich Luft wäre.

He ignored me as if I were air.

Common idiom for being ignored.

1

Die Regierung agiert, als wäre die Krise bereits überwunden.

The government acts as if the crisis were already overcome.

Formal journalistic style, 'als' + V2.

2

Er benahm sich, als ob ihm die ganze Welt gehören würde.

He behaved as if the whole world belonged to him.

Complex behavioral description.

3

Es mutet an, als ob die Zeit hier stehen geblieben wäre.

It seems as if time had stood still here.

Using the sophisticated verb 'anmuten'.

4

Sie tat die Kritik ab, als ob sie völlig irrelevant wäre.

She brushed off the criticism as if it were completely irrelevant.

Integrating 'als ob' into complex actions.

5

Der Autor schreibt, als hätte er die Ereignisse selbst miterlebt.

The author writes as if he had witnessed the events himself.

Literary analysis context.

6

Wir dürfen nicht so tun, als ob diese Entwicklung spurlos an uns vorüberginge.

We must not pretend as if this development would pass us by without a trace.

Using original Konjunktiv II form 'vorüberginge'.

7

Er starrte ins Leere, als ob er eine innere Stimme hören würde.

He stared into the void as if he were hearing an inner voice.

Describing deep psychological states.

8

Das Projekt wurde behandelt, als ob es von vornherein zum Scheitern verurteilt gewesen wäre.

The project was treated as if it had been doomed to fail from the start.

Passive voice in a past hypothetical clause.

1

Er gebärdete sich, als ob er der leibhaftige Teufel wäre.

He behaved as if he were the devil incarnate.

Using archaic/literary vocabulary ('sich gebärden', 'leibhaftig').

2

Es war ihm, als fiele eine schwere Last von seinen Schultern.

He felt as if a heavy burden were falling from his shoulders.

Highly literary 'als' + V2 with original Konjunktiv II 'fiele'.

3

Die Gesellschaft konsumiert, als gäbe es kein Morgen.

Society consumes as if there were no tomorrow.

Fixed rhetorical idiom using 'als' + V2.

4

Sie schwieg, als ob jedes weitere Wort ein Verrat an ihren Prinzipien wäre.

She remained silent, as if every further word were a betrayal of her principles.

Deeply nuanced psychological description.

5

Der Redner tat so, als ob seine Thesen unumstößliche Naturgesetze darstellten.

The speaker acted as if his theses represented irrefutable laws of nature.

Academic/rhetorical critique.

6

Es hat den Anschein, als ob die diplomatischen Bemühungen in einer Sackgasse geendet hätten.

It appears as if the diplomatic efforts had ended in a dead end.

Formal diplomatic register.

7

Er wischte den Einwand beiseite, als ob es sich um eine lästige Fliege handelte.

He brushed the objection aside as if it were an annoying fly.

Vivid metaphorical usage.

8

Man könnte meinen, als ob die Geschichte uns rein gar nichts gelehrt hätte.

One might think as if history had taught us absolutely nothing.

Philosophical lament.

Collocations courantes

so tun als ob
aussehen als ob
klingen als ob
sich anfühlen als ob
scheinen als ob
wirken als ob
sich verhalten als ob
behandeln als ob
reden als ob
fühlen als ob

Phrases Courantes

Er tut so, als ob...
Es sieht so aus, als ob...
Mir ist, als ob...
Als ob!
Lass uns so tun, als ob...
Es scheint, als ob...
Es klingt, als ob...
Man könnte meinen, als ob...
Er benimmt sich, als ob...
Sie macht den Eindruck, als ob...

Souvent confondu avec

als ob vs obwohl (although)

als ob vs ob (whether)

als ob vs als (when/than)

Expressions idiomatiques

"tun als ob man kein Wässerchen trüben könnte"
"leben als ob es kein Morgen gäbe"
"Geld ausgeben als ob es auf Bäumen wächst"
"schlafen als ob man tot wäre"
"rennen als ob der Teufel hinter einem her ist"
"schreien als ob man am Spieß steckt"
"sich freuen als ob Weihnachten und Ostern zusammenfallen"
"lügen als ob es gedruckt ist"
"essen als ob man wochenlang gehungert hätte"
"arbeiten als ob das Leben davon abhängt"

Facile à confondre

als ob vs

als ob vs

als ob vs

als ob vs

als ob vs

Structures de phrases

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Comment l'utiliser

note

The choice between 'als ob' and 'als' + V2 is purely stylistic. 'Als ob' is safer for learners as it follows standard subordinate clause rules, while 'als' + V2 sounds more native but requires a quick mental shift in word order.

Erreurs courantes
  • Using the indicative mood (e.g., 'ist' instead of 'wäre') after 'als ob'.
  • Failing to put the conjugated verb at the very end of the 'als ob' clause.
  • Mixing structures by dropping 'ob' but keeping the verb at the end ('als er der Chef wäre').
  • Using the present Konjunktiv II for a hypothetical event that happened in the past.
  • Confusing 'als ob' with 'obwohl' (although) or simple 'ob' (whether).

Astuces

The Golden Rule

Always pair 'als ob' with Konjunktiv II. Never use the indicative mood. If you use 'ist', you are stating a fact. If you use 'wäre', you are stating a hypothesis.

Verb to the End

Treat 'als ob' like 'weil' or 'dass'. It is a subordinating conjunction. The conjugated verb must be the very last word before the period or comma.

Drop the 'ob' for Elegance

Want to sound like a native? Drop the 'ob' and move the verb to position 2. 'Als wäre er...' sounds much more sophisticated than 'als ob er... wäre'.

The Slang Exclamation

Use 'Als ob!' on its own when someone tells you an unbelievable lie or exaggerates. It's the perfect equivalent to the English 'As if!' or 'Yeah, right!'.

Learn 'so tun als ob'

Memorize 'so tun als ob' as a single vocabulary item meaning 'to pretend'. It is the most common way to express that someone is faking a behavior.

Past Hypotheticals

If the imagined event happened in the past, use 'hätte' or 'wäre' + past participle. 'Als ob er geschlafen hätte' means 'as if he had slept'.

Listen for 'wie wenn'

Don't be confused if you hear 'wie wenn' on the street. It's just a colloquial version of 'als ob'. Understand it, but write 'als ob' in your exams.

Use 'würde' for Regular Verbs

Don't stress about memorizing obscure Konjunktiv II forms for regular verbs. Just use 'würde' + infinitive at the end of the 'als ob' clause. It's perfectly natural.

Punctuation Matters

Always put a comma before 'als ob'. It separates the main clause from the subordinate clause. This is a strict rule in German punctuation.

The 'Alien' Mnemonic

Remember 'Aliens Observe' (ALS OB). They watch us and think we act 'as if' we are normal. It helps link the phrase to the concept of observation and unreality.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'ALS OB' as 'ALienS OBserve': Aliens observe us and think we act 'AS IF' we know what we are doing. It's all hypothetical!

Origine du mot

Germanic

Contexte culturel

In southern Germany and Austria, 'wie wenn' is more frequently heard in casual speech than in the north, though 'als ob' remains the standard written form.

The phrase 'als ob' is neutral and can be used in any setting. Dropping 'ob' and using 'als' + V2 is considered more formal and elegant.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Amorces de conversation

"Hast du jemals so getan, als ob du jemanden nicht kennst?"

"Wer in deinem Leben tut immer so, als ob er alles weiß?"

"Gibt es Momente, in denen du dich fühlst, als ob du im falschen Film wärst?"

"Wann hast du das letzte Mal 'Als ob!' gesagt?"

"Was würdest du tun, wenn du leben könntest, als ob Geld keine Rolle spielt?"

Sujets d'écriture

Beschreibe einen Tag, an dem alles so lief, als ob es verhext wäre.

Schreibe über eine Person, die so tut, als ob sie perfekt ist.

Stell dir vor, du wachst auf und es fühlt sich an, als ob du in der Zukunft wärst.

Wann hast du das letzte Mal so getan, als ob alles in Ordnung wäre, obwohl es das nicht war?

Beschreibe ein Erlebnis, das so schön war, als ob es ein Traum gewesen wäre.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Grammatically, no. 'Als ob' introduces a hypothetical situation, which requires the Konjunktiv II. However, in very casual spoken German, you might occasionally hear native speakers use the indicative. This is considered incorrect in standard German. As a learner, you should always aim to use the Konjunktiv II. It ensures your German sounds correct and educated. Using the indicative sounds jarring to most native ears.

There is no difference in meaning or grammatical function. Both mean 'as if' and both require the verb at the end in the Konjunktiv II. 'Als ob' is generally considered the more standard and universally accepted form in written German. 'Als wenn' is slightly more colloquial but perfectly fine to use. You can treat them as exact synonyms.

You can drop the 'ob' and just use 'als'. When you do this, the word order changes. The conjugated verb no longer goes to the end; instead, it immediately follows 'als'. For example, 'als ob er reich wäre' becomes 'als wäre er reich'. This is a very elegant structure often used in writing.

Yes, in standard sentence structures, it always translates to 'as if' or 'as though'. It is exclusively used for hypothetical comparisons. The only exception is when it is used as a standalone exclamation. In that case, 'Als ob!' translates to slang like 'Yeah, right!' or 'No way!'.

'Wie wenn' is a highly colloquial alternative to 'als ob'. It is very common in spoken German, particularly in southern regions. It means exactly the same thing. However, it is generally avoided in formal writing. Stick to 'als ob' for your active vocabulary, but understand 'wie wenn' when you hear it.

It depends on the timeline. If the hypothetical event is happening at the same time as the main clause, use the present Konjunktiv II (e.g., wäre, hätte, würde). If the hypothetical event happened before the main clause, use the past Konjunktiv II (e.g., hätte gesehen, wäre gegangen). Match the tense to the logic of the sentence.

Yes, absolutely. For most regular verbs, the original Konjunktiv II form sounds archaic or is identical to the simple past. Therefore, using 'würde' + infinitive is the standard way to form these sentences in modern German. For example, 'als ob er weinen würde' is much more common than 'als ob er weinte'.

Yes, it is. This is why it forces the conjugated verb to the very end of the clause. It connects a dependent clause to a main clause. You cannot use an 'als ob' clause as a standalone sentence (except as the slang exclamation).

Verbs of perception and behavior are the most common. 'Aussehen' (to look), 'klingen' (to sound), 'sich anfühlen' (to feel), and 'scheinen' (to seem) are frequent. The phrase 'so tun' (to pretend/act) is also a classic pair. These verbs naturally set up a comparison.

Start by memorizing the phrase 'Er tut so, als ob er der Chef wäre'. Use this as your template. Practice transforming factual sentences into hypothetical ones. Listen for it in German media, noting whether the speaker uses 'als ob', 'als wenn', or drops the 'ob'. Writing short descriptive paragraphs using 'aussehen als ob' is also great practice.

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