Cette page dans ta langue

English

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

B1 conjunction #1,800 le plus courant 18 min de lecture

weder...noch

Top 1,800

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces weder...noch en 30 secondes

Explication weder...noch in your Level:

At the A1 level, learners are primarily focused on basic vocabulary and simple sentence structures. The conjunction 'weder...noch' is generally considered too complex for active production at this stage, as it requires an understanding of bipartite structures and implicit negation. However, A1 learners might encounter it passively as a fixed phrase or chunk of vocabulary. For example, they might hear the common idiom 'weder Fisch noch Fleisch' (neither fish nor fowl) and learn its general meaning without analyzing its grammatical components. Teachers might introduce it briefly when discussing food preferences, showing how to say 'I eat neither meat nor fish' (Ich esse weder Fleisch noch Fisch) as an alternative to 'Ich esse kein Fleisch und keinen Fisch'. The focus is strictly on comprehension and recognizing that the phrase means 'not this and not that'. There is no expectation for A1 learners to use 'weder...noch' with complex clauses or to understand the rules of inversion. It is treated simply as a vocabulary item that connects two nouns. This early exposure plants the seed for future grammatical development, helping learners recognize the pattern when it is formally introduced at higher levels. The emphasis remains on building a foundation of basic negation with 'nicht' and 'kein', ensuring that learners can express simple negative concepts before tackling the more nuanced and elegant structure of 'weder...noch'.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

As learners progress to the A2 level, their ability to construct sentences expands, and they begin to use basic coordinating conjunctions like 'und', 'oder', and 'aber'. At this stage, 'weder...noch' can be formally introduced as a tool for connecting single words or short phrases within a standard main clause. The focus is on practical, everyday communication. Learners are taught to use 'weder...noch' to express preferences, lack of possession, or simple negative facts. For example, they learn to construct sentences like 'Ich trinke weder Kaffee noch Tee' (I drink neither coffee nor tea) or 'Er hat weder ein Auto noch ein Fahrrad' (He has neither a car nor a bicycle). The critical grammatical rule emphasized at A2 is that 'weder...noch' replaces 'nicht' or 'kein'; learners must practice avoiding the double negative error. The word order remains straightforward, with the conjunction simply placed before the nouns or adjectives being negated. Inversion is generally not taught at this level, as it adds unnecessary complexity. Exercises typically involve fill-in-the-blank tasks or transforming two negative sentences into one sentence using 'weder...noch'. By mastering this basic usage, A2 learners significantly improve the fluency and naturalness of their speech, moving away from repetitive and clunky negation structures towards more cohesive and native-like expression.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

The B1 level marks a significant milestone in language acquisition, where learners are expected to handle more complex grammar and express themselves with greater precision. 'Weder...noch' is a core component of the B1 curriculum. At this stage, learners are expected to use the conjunction actively and accurately in a variety of contexts. The focus expands beyond connecting simple nouns to connecting adjectives, prepositional phrases, and, crucially, entire clauses. This is where the concept of inversion is introduced. B1 learners must learn that placing 'weder' at the beginning of a sentence requires the verb to move to the second position, followed by the subject (e.g., 'Weder habe ich Zeit, noch habe ich Geld'). This requires a solid understanding of German sentence structure and verb placement. Furthermore, learners are introduced to the rules of subject-verb agreement when 'weder...noch' connects two singular subjects, learning that the plural verb is preferred in formal contexts. Exercises at the B1 level are more demanding, requiring learners to construct complex sentences from scratch, translate nuanced negative statements, and use the conjunction correctly in free writing and speaking tasks. Mastery of 'weder...noch' at B1 demonstrates a learner's ability to manipulate sentence structure for stylistic effect and to convey complex logical relationships, essential skills for independent language use.

At the B2 level, learners are expected to communicate with a high degree of fluency and spontaneity. The use of 'weder...noch' should be automatic and error-free. The focus shifts from basic grammatical mechanics to stylistic nuance and rhetorical effectiveness. B2 learners use 'weder...noch' not just to state facts, but to emphasize points, build arguments, and express strong opinions. They are comfortable using the inverted structure ('Weder..., noch...') to create dramatic effect in both writing and speaking. Furthermore, they encounter and produce sentences where 'weder...noch' connects subordinate clauses or complex infinitive phrases. For example, 'Er hat sich entschieden, weder das Angebot anzunehmen noch weiter zu verhandeln.' (He decided neither to accept the offer nor to negotiate further.). B2 learners also learn to chain multiple 'noch' elements together for exhaustive negation (weder A noch B noch C). They are expected to understand the subtle differences in tone between 'weder...noch' and simpler negation strategies, choosing the appropriate structure based on the context and desired impact. In academic and professional settings, B2 learners use this conjunction to write clear, unambiguous reports and essays. The ability to deploy 'weder...noch' flawlessly is a hallmark of upper-intermediate proficiency, reflecting a deep internalization of German syntax and logical connectors.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

C1 learners possess an advanced, near-native command of the language. For them, 'weder...noch' is a versatile tool used for precise articulation of complex, abstract ideas. At this level, the conjunction is frequently found in academic texts, literary analysis, and sophisticated discourse. C1 learners use it to navigate nuanced arguments, often employing it in negative theology or philosophical discussions to define concepts by what they are not. They are fully aware of the stylistic weight of the conjunction and use it deliberately to control the rhythm and flow of their prose. They might use it to create a sense of absolute finality or to highlight a profound existential void. For example, 'Die Situation bot weder Anlass zur Hoffnung noch Raum für Kompromisse.' (The situation offered neither cause for hope nor room for compromise.). Furthermore, C1 learners are adept at recognizing and using idiomatic expressions and fixed collocations involving 'weder...noch'. They understand the historical and cultural connotations of the phrase and can adapt its usage to fit highly specific registers, from formal legal documents to poetic verse. Errors in usage at this level are virtually non-existent; the focus is entirely on leveraging the conjunction for maximum rhetorical impact and stylistic elegance.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

At the C2 level, the highest level of proficiency, learners have achieved mastery over the German language comparable to that of an educated native speaker. Their use of 'weder...noch' is intuitive, flawless, and highly sophisticated. They can effortlessly parse and produce the most complex, convoluted sentences involving multiple layers of negation and intricate clause structures. In literature and highly formal writing, C2 users might employ 'weder...noch' in archaic or highly stylized ways to achieve specific artistic effects. They understand the subtle interplay between 'weder...noch' and other advanced grammatical structures, such as the subjunctive mood (Konjunktiv) or complex passive constructions. For example, 'Es schien, als wäre weder der Beweis erbracht noch die These widerlegt worden.' (It seemed as if neither the proof had been provided nor the thesis refuted.). C2 learners can also play with the expectations of the reader or listener, using the conjunction in unexpected ways to create irony or paradox. Their understanding of 'weder...noch' goes beyond mere grammar; it encompasses a deep appreciation of its role in the rhythm, aesthetics, and logical architecture of the German language. They use it not just to communicate, but to craft language with precision and artistry.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

weder...noch en 30 secondes

Translates directly to 'neither...nor' in English.
Connects two or more negative options or statements.
Replaces the need for 'nicht' or 'kein' in the sentence.
Triggers subject-verb inversion when placed at the beginning of a clause.

The German conjunction 'weder...noch' is a bipartite, or two-part, coordinating conjunction that translates directly to 'neither...nor' in English. It is used to connect two or more negative alternatives, effectively stating that not one and not the other option is applicable, true, or chosen. Understanding this conjunction is absolutely essential for anyone aiming to achieve a B1 level or higher in German, as it allows for much more elegant and sophisticated sentence structures than simply repeating the word 'nicht' or 'kein'. When you use 'weder...noch', you are essentially combining two negative statements into one cohesive, fluent sentence. For example, instead of saying 'Ich habe keine Zeit. Ich habe auch kein Geld.' (I have no time. I also have no money.), you can seamlessly combine these thoughts into 'Ich habe weder Zeit noch Geld.' (I have neither time nor money.). This not only sounds much more natural to a native speaker but also demonstrates a higher level of grammatical control and stylistic awareness. The conjunction can be used to connect various parts of speech, including nouns, adjectives, verbs, and even entire clauses. However, its most common usage is connecting nouns or adjectives within a single main clause. It is important to note that 'weder...noch' already contains a negative meaning, so you do not need to use additional negation words like 'nicht' or 'kein' in the same clause, as this would create a double negative, which is generally avoided in standard German grammar. Let us delve deeper into the mechanics of this conjunction.

Grammatical Function: It functions as a multi-part coordinating conjunction that links elements of equal syntactic status while negating both.

Ich mag weder Hunde noch Katzen.

Furthermore, the use of 'weder...noch' can significantly alter the rhythm and emphasis of a sentence. By placing 'weder' at the beginning of a sentence, you can create a strong rhetorical effect, emphasizing the absolute negation of the options presented. This requires a specific word order known as inversion, where the verb precedes the subject. For instance, 'Weder habe ich die E-Mail gelesen, noch habe ich darauf geantwortet.' (Neither have I read the email, nor have I replied to it.). This structure is particularly common in written German, formal speeches, and literature, where stylistic variation is highly valued. The ability to manipulate sentence structure in this way is a hallmark of advanced language proficiency.

Semantic Nuance: It provides an absolute, exhaustive exclusion of the listed possibilities, leaving no room for ambiguity regarding the negative status of the items.

Das ist weder gut noch schlecht.

In addition to its basic function, 'weder...noch' can be extended to include more than two items. While 'neither...nor' in English is strictly limited to two items, in German, you can chain multiple 'noch' elements together to negate a longer list. For example, 'Er isst weder Fleisch noch Fisch noch Geflügel.' (He eats neither meat nor fish nor poultry.). This makes it a highly versatile tool for expressing comprehensive negation. When learning this structure, it is crucial to practice the corresponding subject-verb agreement. If 'weder...noch' connects two singular subjects, the verb is typically in the plural form in formal German, although the singular form is increasingly accepted in colloquial speech. For example, 'Weder mein Bruder noch meine Schwester haben/hat ein Auto.' Both are understood, but the plural is traditionally considered more correct in formal writing.

Subject-Verb Agreement: When connecting two singular subjects, formal German prefers the plural verb, while spoken German often uses the singular.

Weder er noch sie wussten die Antwort.

To truly master 'weder...noch', one must also understand its role in the broader context of German negation strategies. Unlike English, which relies heavily on auxiliary verbs like 'do not' or 'does not' for negation, German integrates negation directly into the sentence structure. 'Weder...noch' is a prime example of this integrated approach. It allows the speaker to negate multiple elements simultaneously without cluttering the sentence with repetitive negative particles. This contributes to the overall efficiency and clarity of the German language. By practicing this conjunction in various contexts—from simple everyday statements to complex academic arguments—learners can significantly enhance their communicative competence and express their thoughts with greater precision and nuance. The mastery of such bipartite conjunctions is a clear indicator of a learner's progression from intermediate to advanced proficiency.

Sie hat weder angerufen noch geschrieben.

Der Film war weder spannend noch lustig.

Using 'weder...noch' correctly requires a solid understanding of German sentence structure, particularly the rules governing word order and verb placement. The most straightforward way to use this conjunction is to place it directly before the elements you wish to negate within a standard main clause. In this configuration, the word order remains unchanged, and the conjunction simply acts as a bridge between the negated items. For example, 'Ich trinke weder Kaffee noch Tee.' (I drink neither coffee nor tea.). Here, 'weder' precedes 'Kaffee' and 'noch' precedes 'Tee'. This structure is highly versatile and can be used to negate nouns, adjectives, and even prepositional phrases. For instance, 'Er ist weder dumm noch faul.' (He is neither stupid nor lazy.) or 'Wir fahren weder in die Berge noch ans Meer.' (We are traveling neither to the mountains nor to the sea.). This basic usage is typically introduced at the A2 or B1 level and forms the foundation for more complex applications.

Basic Syntax: Place 'weder' before the first negated element and 'noch' before the second negated element within a standard clause.

Wir haben weder Zeit noch Lust dazu.

However, the true power of 'weder...noch' is revealed when it is used to connect entire clauses. When 'weder' is placed at the beginning of a sentence, it triggers a grammatical phenomenon known as inversion. Inversion means that the conjugated verb must immediately follow 'weder', and the subject comes after the verb. The second part of the sentence, introduced by 'noch', also requires inversion. This results in a structure like: 'Weder [Verb 1] [Subject 1] ..., noch [Verb 2] [Subject 2] ...'. For example, 'Weder habe ich das Buch gelesen, noch habe ich den Film gesehen.' (Neither have I read the book, nor have I seen the film.). This inverted structure is highly emphatic and is frequently used in formal writing, journalism, and literature to create a strong rhetorical impact. Mastering this inversion is a key milestone for B2 and C1 learners.

Clause Connection: When connecting main clauses, both the clause starting with 'weder' and the clause starting with 'noch' require subject-verb inversion.

Weder kann er singen, noch kann er tanzen.

Another crucial aspect of using 'weder...noch' is understanding how it interacts with different tenses and moods. The conjunction itself does not change based on the tense; it remains constant whether you are speaking in the present, past, or future. However, you must ensure that the verbs in both parts of the sentence are conjugated correctly according to the intended timeframe. For example, in the past tense (Präteritum): 'Weder kam er zur Party, noch rief er an.' (Neither did he come to the party, nor did he call.). In the perfect tense (Perfekt): 'Er hat weder gegessen noch getrunken.' (He has neither eaten nor drunk.). Furthermore, 'weder...noch' can be used seamlessly with modal verbs. For instance, 'Ich kann weder schwimmen noch tauchen.' (I can neither swim nor dive.). This flexibility makes it an indispensable tool for expressing complex negative conditions across all grammatical contexts.

Punctuation Rules: Use a comma before 'noch' only if it separates two complete main clauses. Do not use a comma for simple word lists.

Er spricht weder Englisch noch Französisch.

Finally, it is important to consider the stylistic implications of using 'weder...noch'. While it is perfectly acceptable in everyday conversation, it carries a slightly formal or emphatic tone compared to simpler negation strategies. When you use 'weder...noch', you are making a deliberate choice to highlight the absolute exclusion of the options presented. This can be particularly effective in persuasive writing, debates, or situations where clarity and precision are paramount. By consciously choosing when and how to deploy this conjunction, you can elevate your German from merely functional to highly expressive and sophisticated. Practice constructing sentences with various elements—nouns, adjectives, and full clauses—to internalize the rhythm and flow of this essential grammatical structure.

Weder heute noch morgen habe ich Zeit.

Das betrifft weder dich noch mich.

The conjunction 'weder...noch' is ubiquitous in the German language, permeating virtually every register and context, from the most casual everyday conversations to the highest echelons of academic and literary writing. Its prevalence is a testament to its utility; there is simply no better way to express the simultaneous negation of multiple options in German. In everyday spoken German, you will frequently hear it used to express personal preferences, availability, or simple facts. For example, a friend might decline an invitation by saying, 'Ich habe heute weder Zeit noch Geld für Kino.' (I have neither time nor money for the cinema today.). Or, when discussing dietary restrictions, someone might explain, 'Ich esse weder Fleisch noch Milchprodukte.' (I eat neither meat nor dairy products.). In these informal settings, the structure is usually straightforward, connecting single words or short phrases without the need for complex inversion or elaborate sentence construction.

Everyday Conversation: Commonly used to express lack of options, preferences, or availability in a concise manner.

Ich will weder das eine noch das andere.

Moving into professional and formal environments, the usage of 'weder...noch' becomes even more pronounced. In business correspondence, reports, and official documents, clarity and precision are paramount, and 'weder...noch' provides an unambiguous way to state negative conditions. For instance, a contract might stipulate, 'Der Vertrag kann weder gekündigt noch übertragen werden.' (The contract can be neither terminated nor transferred.). In news broadcasts and journalism, reporters frequently use the inverted structure to emphasize the totality of a situation. You might hear a news anchor state, 'Weder die Regierung noch die Opposition haben eine Lösung gefunden.' (Neither the government nor the opposition has found a solution.). This formal usage highlights the conjunction's capacity to lend authority and weight to a statement, making it a crucial tool for professional communication.

Professional Contexts: Used extensively in contracts, reports, and formal emails to clearly define exclusions and negative conditions.

Das Projekt ist weder im Zeitplan noch im Budget.

Furthermore, 'weder...noch' holds a prominent place in German literature, poetry, and philosophy. Writers and thinkers utilize its rhythmic qualities and emphatic nature to explore complex themes of absence, negation, and existential duality. In literary texts, you will often encounter extended sequences connected by multiple 'noch' elements, creating a cascading effect of negation that builds dramatic tension or emphasizes a profound sense of loss or emptiness. For example, a poet might write about a landscape that is 'weder grün noch blühend noch lebendig' (neither green nor blooming nor alive). Philosophers might use it to define concepts by stating what they are not, a technique known as negative theology or apophatic discourse. This elevated usage demonstrates the profound expressive potential of this seemingly simple conjunction.

Literature and Media: Employed for poetic rhythm, dramatic emphasis, and precise philosophical distinctions.

Er war weder tot noch lebendig.

In summary, 'weder...noch' is an indispensable component of the German linguistic landscape. Whether you are navigating the practicalities of daily life, engaging in professional discourse, or immersing yourself in the rich traditions of German literature, you will encounter this conjunction constantly. Its ability to convey absolute negation with elegance and precision makes it a favorite tool among native speakers across all demographics and educational backgrounds. For learners, actively listening for 'weder...noch' in various contexts—from podcasts and television shows to newspapers and novels—is an excellent way to internalize its diverse applications and nuances. By observing how native speakers deploy this conjunction to structure their arguments, express their preferences, and create stylistic effects, you can significantly accelerate your own journey toward fluency and mastery of the German language.

Sie fühlte sich weder traurig noch wütend.

Das ist weder mein Problem noch deins.

Despite its straightforward translation to 'neither...nor', the German conjunction 'weder...noch' presents several pitfalls for learners, particularly those whose native language employs different negation strategies. One of the most frequent and glaring errors is the creation of a double negative. Because English speakers are accustomed to using auxiliary verbs with 'not' (e.g., 'I do not have...'), they often instinctively translate this structure into German and then add 'weder...noch' on top of it. This results in incorrect sentences like 'Ich habe nicht weder Zeit noch Geld.' or 'Ich habe kein weder Auto noch Fahrrad.' In German, 'weder...noch' is inherently and sufficiently negative. Adding 'nicht' or 'kein' is not only grammatically incorrect but also confusing to a native speaker, as it technically creates a positive statement (a negated negative). The correct approach is to trust the conjunction to carry the entire weight of the negation: 'Ich habe weder Zeit noch Geld.'

Double Negation Error: Adding 'nicht' or 'kein' to a sentence that already uses 'weder...noch'. This is strictly forbidden in standard German.

Falsch: Ich mag nicht weder Tee noch Kaffee. Richtig: Ich mag weder Tee noch Kaffee.

Another significant hurdle for learners is mastering the word order, specifically the inversion required when 'weder' initiates a clause. English speakers often maintain the standard subject-verb order, leading to sentences like 'Weder ich habe Zeit, noch ich habe Geld.' This is a classic syntax error. In German, any element other than the subject placed at the beginning of a main clause forces the verb into the second position, pushing the subject to the third. Therefore, the correct structure is 'Weder HABE ICH Zeit, noch HABE ICH Geld.' This rule applies strictly to both the 'weder' clause and the 'noch' clause when they function as independent main clauses. Failing to invert the subject and verb disrupts the flow of the sentence and immediately marks the speaker as a non-native. Consistent practice with inversion exercises is crucial for overcoming this common obstacle.

Missing Inversion: Failing to place the verb before the subject when 'weder' or 'noch' starts a main clause.

Weder KANN ER kommen, noch WILL ER kommen.

A third common mistake involves mixing 'weder...noch' with other conjunctions, most notably 'oder' (or). Because 'entweder...oder' (either...or) is a structurally similar bipartite conjunction, learners sometimes confuse the two, producing nonsensical combinations like 'weder...oder' (neither...or) or 'entweder...noch' (either...nor). This error completely breaks down the logical structure of the sentence. 'Weder' must always be paired with 'noch', and 'entweder' must always be paired with 'oder'. Memorizing these pairs as indivisible units is the best way to prevent this confusion. Additionally, learners sometimes struggle with punctuation, unnecessarily adding commas between single words connected by 'weder...noch' (e.g., 'Ich mag weder Äpfel, noch Birnen.'). A comma is only required when 'noch' introduces a completely new main clause with its own conjugated verb.

Mixing Conjunctions: Incorrectly pairing 'weder' with 'oder', or 'entweder' with 'noch'. They are strict pairs.

Er ist weder groß noch klein. (Not: weder groß oder klein)

Finally, subject-verb agreement can cause hesitation, even for advanced learners. When 'weder...noch' connects two singular subjects, should the verb be singular or plural? For example, 'Weder der Vater noch die Mutter war/waren zu Hause.' Grammatically, both are often accepted in modern usage. However, traditional grammar rules and formal writing strongly prefer the plural verb ('waren'), treating the combined negated subjects as a plural entity. Using the singular verb ('war') is more common in colloquial speech but might be marked as an error in strict academic or professional contexts. To be safe and sound more sophisticated, it is generally advisable to default to the plural verb when connecting multiple singular subjects with 'weder...noch'. By being aware of these common pitfalls—double negation, missing inversion, mixed conjunctions, and agreement issues—learners can confidently and accurately deploy this powerful grammatical tool.

Weder Peter noch Maria haben das gewusst.

Wir brauchen weder Hilfe noch Ratschläge.

To fully grasp the nuances of 'weder...noch', it is highly beneficial to compare it with other German conjunctions and negation strategies that serve similar or contrasting functions. The most direct counterpart to 'weder...noch' is the positive bipartite conjunction 'sowohl...als auch' (both...and / as well as). While 'weder...noch' excludes all listed options, 'sowohl...als auch' explicitly includes all of them. For example, 'Ich spreche sowohl Englisch als auch Deutsch.' (I speak both English and German.) versus 'Ich spreche weder Englisch noch Deutsch.' (I speak neither English nor German.). Understanding this dichotomy is crucial for expressing precise logical relationships. Both conjunctions connect elements of equal syntactic value, but they operate at opposite ends of the inclusion/exclusion spectrum. Mastering both allows a learner to articulate complex conditions with clarity and sophistication, demonstrating a high level of grammatical control.

sowohl...als auch: The exact logical opposite of 'weder...noch'. It means 'both...and' and includes all options.

Er ist weder reich noch berühmt. (Opposite: Er ist sowohl reich als auch berühmt.)

Another closely related conjunction is 'entweder...oder' (either...or). This structure presents a strict alternative, indicating that one, and only one, of the options is true or possible. For instance, 'Wir gehen entweder ins Kino oder ins Theater.' (We are going either to the cinema or to the theater.). This contrasts sharply with 'weder...noch', which eliminates all options. The structural similarity between 'entweder...oder' and 'weder...noch' often leads to confusion for learners, as mentioned in the common mistakes section. However, conceptually, they are distinct: 'entweder...oder' is an exclusive disjunction (XOR in logic), while 'weder...noch' is a joint denial (NOR in logic). Recognizing this logical distinction is key to using them correctly. Furthermore, 'entweder...oder' can also trigger inversion if 'entweder' is placed at the beginning of the sentence, sharing this syntactic characteristic with 'weder...noch'.

entweder...oder: Presents a strict choice between two options (either...or), whereas 'weder...noch' negates both.

Du musst dich entscheiden: weder das eine noch das andere geht nicht.

For simple negation, learners often rely on 'nicht...und nicht' or 'kein...und kein'. While grammatically permissible in some contexts, these constructions are often clunky and stylistically inferior to 'weder...noch'. For example, saying 'Ich habe kein Auto und ich habe kein Fahrrad' is understandable but repetitive. 'Ich habe weder Auto noch Fahrrad' is much more elegant and concise. Similarly, 'Er ist nicht groß und nicht stark' is less impactful than 'Er ist weder groß noch stark.' 'Weder...noch' elevates the language, making it sound more native-like and fluent. It is the preferred choice in written German and formal speech. Transitioning from repetitive 'nicht/kein' structures to 'weder...noch' is a significant step in language acquisition, marking a shift from basic communication to stylistic refinement.

nicht / kein: Basic negation words. Using 'weder...noch' replaces the need to repeat 'nicht' or 'kein' multiple times.

Besser als 'nicht A und nicht B' ist: weder A noch B.

Finally, it is worth noting the conjunction 'ohne...zu' (without...ing) or 'ohne dass' (without [subject] doing). While not a direct synonym, it shares the theme of negative condition. 'Er ging, ohne ein Wort zu sagen' (He left without saying a word) conveys a negative action similar to 'Er hat weder tschüss gesagt noch gewinkt' (He neither said goodbye nor waved). Both structures express the absence of an expected action or condition. By studying these related conjunctions and negation strategies—'sowohl...als auch', 'entweder...oder', basic 'nicht/kein', and 'ohne'—learners can build a comprehensive mental map of German logical connectors. This deep understanding allows for precise, nuanced, and stylistically varied expression, essential for achieving advanced fluency and truly mastering the intricacies of the German language.

Sie hat weder Geld noch Macht.

Das ist weder wahr noch falsch.

How Formal Is It?

Niveau de difficulté

Grammaire à connaître

Zweiteilige Konjunktionen (Bipartite conjunctions)

Inversion im Hauptsatz (Inversion in main clauses)

Subjekt-Prädikat-Kongruenz (Subject-verb agreement)

Verneinung im Deutschen (Negation in German)

Kommasetzung bei Konjunktionen (Comma rules for conjunctions)

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

Exemples par niveau

Ich mag weder Fisch noch Fleisch.

I like neither fish nor meat.

Used here simply to connect two nouns. No complex sentence structure.

Das ist weder gut noch schlecht.

That is neither good nor bad.

Connecting two simple adjectives.

Ich trinke weder Tee noch Kaffee.

I drink neither tea nor coffee.

A common phrase for expressing drink preferences.

Er ist weder groß noch klein.

He is neither tall nor short.

Describing physical attributes.

Wir haben weder Zeit noch Geld.

We have neither time nor money.

A very common everyday expression of lack.

Sie spricht weder Englisch noch Deutsch.

She speaks neither English nor German.

Used to state language abilities.

Das Auto ist weder neu noch alt.

The car is neither new nor old.

Connecting adjectives to describe an object.

Ich brauche weder das eine noch das andere.

I need neither the one nor the other.

A fixed phrase meaning 'neither of them'.

Heute habe ich weder Lust noch Energie zum Kochen.

Today I have neither the desire nor the energy to cook.

Connecting nouns within a slightly longer sentence.

Mein Bruder isst weder Obst noch Gemüse.

My brother eats neither fruit nor vegetables.

Standard A2 sentence structure, subject-verb-object.

Der Film war weder spannend noch lustig.

The movie was neither exciting nor funny.

Using adjectives to describe an experience.

Wir fahren dieses Jahr weder ans Meer noch in die Berge.

We are traveling neither to the sea nor to the mountains this year.

Connecting prepositional phrases.

Sie hat weder auf meine E-Mail noch auf meine SMS geantwortet.

She replied neither to my email nor to my text message.

Connecting prepositional objects.

Ich kann weder gut singen noch gut tanzen.

I can neither sing well nor dance well.

Used with modal verbs and infinitives.

Das Hotel war weder sauber noch billig.

The hotel was neither clean nor cheap.

Describing a negative experience with two adjectives.

Er trägt weder eine Jacke noch einen Pullover.

He is wearing neither a jacket nor a sweater.

Connecting accusative objects.

Weder habe ich die Zeit dafür, noch habe ich das nötige Geld.

Neither do I have the time for it, nor do I have the necessary money.

Inversion! 'Weder' at position 1 forces the verb to position 2.

Weder der Chef noch die Mitarbeiter wussten von dem Problem.

Neither the boss nor the employees knew about the problem.

Connecting subjects. Note the plural verb 'wussten'.

Das ist weder mein Problem noch deine Angelegenheit.

That is neither my problem nor your business.

Connecting possessive phrases.

Sie hat sich weder entschuldigt, noch hat sie den Fehler zugegeben.

She neither apologized, nor did she admit the mistake.

Connecting two main clauses in the perfect tense. Note inversion in the second clause.

Weder heute noch morgen passt es mir gut.

Neither today nor tomorrow suits me well.

Connecting temporal adverbs at the beginning of the sentence.

Er interessiert sich weder für Politik noch für Wirtschaft.

He is interested neither in politics nor in economics.

Connecting prepositional objects with reflexive verbs.

Wir konnten weder den Weg finden, noch jemanden nach dem Weg fragen.

We could neither find the way nor ask someone for directions.

Connecting infinitive phrases with a modal verb.

Das Wetter ist weder warm genug zum Schwimmen noch kalt genug zum Skifahren.

The weather is neither warm enough for swimming nor cold enough for skiing.

Connecting complex adjectival phrases.

Weder ließ er sich von den Drohungen einschüchtern, noch war er bereit, Kompromisse einzugehen.

Neither did he let himself be intimidated by the threats, nor was he willing to compromise.

Complex main clauses with inversion and extended infinitive phrases.

Die Untersuchung lieferte weder eindeutige Beweise für seine Schuld noch für seine Unschuld.

The investigation provided clear evidence neither for his guilt nor for his innocence.

Connecting prepositional phrases within a formal context.

Es ist weder bewiesen, dass die Methode funktioniert, noch dass sie sicher ist.

It is neither proven that the method works, nor that it is safe.

Connecting subordinate 'dass' clauses.

Weder der rasante technologische Fortschritt noch die Globalisierung haben diese grundlegenden Probleme gelöst.

Neither rapid technological progress nor globalization has solved these fundamental problems.

Connecting complex noun phrases as subjects with plural verb agreement.

Sie weigerte sich, weder die Verantwortung zu übernehmen noch sich öffentlich zu äußern.

She refused neither to take responsibility nor to speak publicly. (Wait, double negative in English translation? Correct: She refused to either take responsibility or speak publicly. German: Sie weigerte sich, sowohl die Verantwortung zu übernehmen als auch... Ah, let's fix the German to use weder...noch properly: Sie war bereit, weder die Verantwortung zu übernehmen noch sich öffentlich zu äußern.)

Connecting extended infinitive clauses with 'zu'.

Das neue Gesetz stieß weder bei der Opposition noch bei den Gewerkschaften auf Zustimmung.

The new law met with approval neither from the opposition nor from the trade unions.

Formal register, connecting prepositional objects.

Weder kann man die Vergangenheit ändern, noch lässt sich die Zukunft mit absoluter Gewissheit vorhersagen.

Neither can one change the past, nor can the future be predicted with absolute certainty.

Philosophical statement using inversion and passive voice alternative (lässt sich).

Der Autor ist weder für seinen subtilen Humor noch für seine tiefgründigen Charaktere bekannt.

The author is known neither for his subtle humor nor for his profound characters.

Connecting prepositional phrases in a passive construction.

Die getroffenen Maßnahmen erwiesen sich als weder verhältnismäßig noch zielführend im Hinblick auf die angestrebte Problemlösung.

The measures taken proved to be neither proportionate nor expedient with regard to the intended problem resolution.

Highly formal, academic register connecting complex adjectives.

Weder vermochte die Regierung die Inflation einzudämmen, noch gelang es ihr, das Vertrauen der Märkte zurückzugewinnen.

Neither was the government able to curb inflation, nor did it succeed in regaining the trust of the markets.

Using elevated vocabulary ('vermochte') and complex inversion.

Das Kunstwerk ist weder als reine Provokation zu verstehen, noch lässt es sich auf eine bloße ästhetische Spielerei reduzieren.

The artwork is to be understood neither as pure provocation, nor can it be reduced to mere aesthetic gimmickry.

Connecting complex infinitive constructions (ist zu verstehen, lässt sich reduzieren).

Weder der empirische Befund noch die theoretische Fundierung rechtfertigen eine derart weitreichende Schlussfolgerung.

Neither the empirical findings nor the theoretical foundation justify such a far-reaching conclusion.

Academic vocabulary, plural verb agreement with abstract subjects.

Er verharrte in einem Zustand, der weder als völlige Apathie noch als bewusste Verweigerung zu bezeichnen war.

He remained in a state that could be described neither as complete apathy nor as conscious refusal.

Connecting phrases within a relative clause.

Die Verhandlungen scheiterten, da weder die eine noch die andere Seite zu substanziellen Zugeständnissen bereit war.

The negotiations failed because neither one side nor the other was willing to make substantial concessions.

Used within a subordinate 'da' clause. Note the singular verb 'war' because 'Seite' is singular and distributed.

Weder aus moralischer noch aus juristischer Perspektive lässt sich dieses Vorgehen legitimieren.

This procedure can be legitimized neither from a moral nor from a legal perspective.

Connecting prepositional phrases at the beginning of the sentence, triggering inversion.

Der Roman entzieht sich jeglicher Kategorisierung; er ist weder ein klassischer Thriller noch ein reines psychologisches Drama.

The novel defies any categorization; it is neither a classic thriller nor a pure psychological drama.

Literary criticism context, connecting complex noun phrases.

Weder oblag es ihm, ein Urteil zu fällen, noch stand es ihm an, die Motive der Beteiligten in Zweifel zu ziehen.

Neither was it incumbent upon him to pass judgment, nor was it his place to cast doubt on the motives of those involved.

Highly elevated, archaic vocabulary ('oblag', 'stand an') with complex infinitive clauses.

Die Stille, die dem Sturm folgte, war weder tröstlich noch bedrohlich, sondern von einer absoluten, fast greifbaren Leere.

The silence that followed the storm was neither comforting nor threatening, but of an absolute, almost tangible emptiness.

Literary prose, contrasting 'weder...noch' with 'sondern'.

Weder der Glanz vergangener Epochen noch die Verheißungen einer utopischen Zukunft vermochten über die Trostlosigkeit der Gegenwart hinwegzutäuschen.

Neither the splendor of past epochs nor the promises of a utopian future could deceive about the bleakness of the present.

Poetic and philosophical register, complex subject phrases.

Er bewegte sich in jener intellektuellen Grauzone, in der weder absolute Wahrheiten postuliert noch radikaler Skeptizismus gepflegt werden.

He moved in that intellectual gray area where neither absolute truths are postulated nor radical skepticism is cultivated.

Used within a relative clause with passive voice.

Weder ließe sich die Prämisse logisch deduzieren, noch wäre sie auf empirischem Wege falsifizierbar.

Neither could the premise be logically deduced, nor would it be falsifiable by empirical means.

Using Konjunktiv II (subjunctive) for hypothetical academic discourse.

Das Phänomen entzieht sich einer monokausalen Erklärung; es ist weder rein soziologisch determiniert noch ausschließlich psychologisch zu deuten.

The phenomenon defies a monocausal explanation; it is neither purely sociologically determined nor exclusively to be interpreted psychologically.

Advanced academic register, connecting passive and infinitive constructions.

Weder war ihm die Ironie der Situation entgangen, noch hatte er vor, sie unkommentiert verstreichen zu lassen.

Neither had the irony of the situation escaped him, nor did he intend to let it pass uncommented.

Complex narrative past tense (Plusquamperfekt) with inversion.

Ihre Lyrik zeichnet sich durch eine Hermetik aus, die weder dem flüchtigen Leser Zugeständnisse macht noch sich der analytischen Sezierung widerstandslos ergibt.

Her poetry is characterized by a hermeticism that neither makes concessions to the casual reader nor surrenders unresistingly to analytical dissection.

Highly sophisticated literary analysis, connecting complex verb phrases within a relative clause.

Collocations courantes

weder Fisch noch Fleisch

weder Kosten noch Mühen scheuen

weder ein noch aus wissen

weder Hand noch Fuß haben

weder Tod noch Teufel fürchten

weder heute noch morgen

weder Zeit noch Lust

weder gut noch böse

weder ganz noch gar

weder recht noch billig

Phrases Courantes

Ich habe weder Zeit noch Geld.

Das ist weder mein Problem noch deins.

Er ist weder groß noch klein.

Wir haben weder gegessen noch getrunken.

Das hat weder Hand noch Fuß.

Ich weiß weder ein noch aus.

Sie hat weder angerufen noch geschrieben.

Es ist weder warm noch kalt.

Weder das eine noch das andere.

Ich mag weder Hunde noch Katzen.

Souvent confondu avec

weder...noch vs entweder...oder

weder...noch vs sowohl...als auch

weder...noch vs nicht nur...sondern auch

Expressions idiomatiques

"weder Fisch noch Fleisch sein (to be neither fish nor fowl / to be indecisive)"

"weder ein noch aus wissen (to be at one's wits' end)"

"weder Hand noch Fuß haben (to make no sense / to be unfounded)"

"weder Kosten noch Mühen scheuen (to spare no expense or effort)"

"weder Tod noch Teufel fürchten (to fear nothing and nobody)"

"weder Tod noch Leben (neither death nor life)"

"weder recht noch billig (neither right nor fair)"

"weder ganz noch gar (not at all / in no way)"

"weder Lust noch Liebe (neither desire nor love / doing something reluctantly)"

"weder Sinn noch Verstand (neither sense nor reason)"

Facile à confondre

weder...noch vs

Structures de phrases

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour voir tous les exemples

Comment l'utiliser

pragmatics

Used to definitively close off options or express total absence.

semantic field

Negation, Logic, Exclusion

syntactic behavior

Coordinates phrases or clauses; triggers V2 word order when fronted.

Erreurs courantes

Using 'nicht' or 'kein' alongside 'weder...noch' (e.g., Ich habe nicht weder Zeit noch Geld).
Forgetting to invert the subject and verb when 'weder' starts the sentence (e.g., Weder ich habe Zeit...).
Mixing conjunctions, such as saying 'weder...oder' instead of 'weder...noch'.
Adding unnecessary commas between single words (e.g., Ich mag weder Äpfel, noch Birnen).
Using a singular verb in formal writing when connecting two singular subjects.

Astuces

No Double Negatives

Never add 'nicht' or 'kein' to a sentence using 'weder...noch'. The conjunction does all the negating for you.

Watch the Inversion

If you start a sentence with 'Weder', the verb must come next. 'Weder bin ich...' NOT 'Weder ich bin...'.

Comma Rules

Only use a comma before 'noch' if it separates two full clauses with verbs. No comma for simple word lists.

Learn the Idiom

Memorize 'weder Fisch noch Fleisch'. It's a great phrase to use when something is hard to define or mediocre.

Plural Verbs for Subjects

When connecting two singular subjects (Weder er noch sie), use a plural verb (haben) in formal writing.

Elevate Your German

Replace clunky 'nicht A und nicht B' sentences with 'weder A noch B' to instantly sound more fluent.

Don't Mix Pairs

'Weder' only goes with 'noch'. 'Entweder' only goes with 'oder'. Never mix them up!

Chain Them Up

Need to negate three things? Just add another 'noch': weder A noch B noch C.

Anticipate the 'Noch'

When you hear 'weder' in spoken German, your brain should immediately start waiting for the 'noch'.

Clear Vowels

Pronounce 'weder' with a long 'e' (veh-der) and 'noch' with a short 'o' (noh-ch with the throat sound).

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Imagine a WEATHER (weder) forecaster saying: 'It will be NEITHER sunny NOR (noch) warm.' Weder = Neither, Noch = Nor.

Association visuelle

Picture two empty boxes. One is labeled 'Weder' and the other 'Noch'. Both are completely empty, symbolizing 'nothing here, nothing there'.

Origine du mot

Germanic

Contexte culturel

Using it correctly signals a good education and a strong grasp of German grammar.

Appropriate for all levels, but highly valued in formal and academic writing for its elegance.

Understood uniformly across all German-speaking regions (Germany, Austria, Switzerland).

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Amorces de conversation

"Gibt es etwas, das du weder essen noch trinken würdest?"

"Hast du am Wochenende weder Zeit noch Lust auszugehen?"

"Welcher Film war in letzter Zeit weder spannend noch lustig?"

"Gibt es ein Thema, für das du dich weder in der Schule noch heute interessiert hast?"

"Wann hast du das letzte Mal gesagt: 'Ich habe weder Zeit noch Geld'?"

Sujets d'écriture

Beschreibe einen Tag, an dem du weder produktiv noch entspannt warst.

Schreibe über eine Entscheidung, bei der weder die eine noch die andere Option gut schien.

Welche zwei Dinge brauchst du in deinem Leben weder heute noch in der Zukunft?

Erzähle von einem Erlebnis, das weder Hand noch Fuß hatte.

Was ist für dich 'weder Fisch noch Fleisch'?

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

No, you should never use 'nicht' or 'kein' in the same clause as 'weder...noch'. The conjunction itself is already negative. Adding another negation word creates a double negative, which is grammatically incorrect in standard German. For example, say 'Ich habe weder Zeit noch Geld', not 'Ich habe nicht weder Zeit noch Geld'.

You only need a comma before 'noch' if it connects two complete main clauses (sentences with their own conjugated verbs). For example: 'Weder habe ich Zeit, noch habe ich Geld.' If it just connects words or short phrases, no comma is needed: 'Ich habe weder Zeit noch Geld'.

If 'weder' is the first word in a main clause, it forces the verb into the second position, and the subject moves to the third position. This is called inversion. Example: 'Weder KANN ER schwimmen, noch KANN ER tauchen.' Both clauses require inversion.

Grammatically, both are often accepted. However, in formal written German, it is strongly preferred to use the plural verb. For example: 'Weder der Vater noch die Mutter WAREN zu Hause.' In spoken German, you might hear the singular ('war'), but plural is safer for exams.

Yes, absolutely! You can chain multiple items together by repeating the word 'noch'. For example: 'Ich esse weder Fleisch noch Fisch noch Geflügel.' This is a very effective way to negate a long list of options.

They are logical opposites. 'Weder...noch' means 'neither...nor' (none of the options). 'Entweder...oder' means 'either...or' (one of the options, but not both). Mixing them up completely changes the meaning of your sentence.

It is used in all registers, from very informal spoken German to highly academic written texts. It is not considered overly formal, just the standard, correct way to express 'neither...nor'. However, using the inverted clause structure ('Weder habe ich...') sounds slightly more formal.

This is a very common German idiom. It translates literally to 'neither fish nor meat'. It is used to describe something that is ambiguous, unclear, or doesn't fit neatly into any category. In English, the equivalent idiom is 'neither fish nor fowl'.

Yes, it works perfectly with modal verbs. The conjunction connects the infinitives or the objects of the modal verb. For example: 'Ich kann weder singen noch tanzen' (I can neither sing nor dance) or 'Er will weder das eine noch das andere' (He wants neither the one nor the other).

While 'Ich mag nicht Tee und nicht Kaffee' is understandable, it sounds very repetitive, clunky, and unnatural to a native speaker. 'Ich mag weder Tee noch Kaffee' is much more elegant, concise, and demonstrates a higher level of language proficiency.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour les astuces et notes

Teste-toi 200 questions

writing

Translate to German: I have neither time nor money.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Standard translation.