Vorausgesetzt, dass...

Grammar alert: this phrase kicks the verb to the very end of the clause. If you say, Vorausgesetzt, dass du kommst, the verb kommst sits at the finish line. You can also drop the dass if you want to sound a bit more snappy. In that case, the word order stays normal. It is a flexible tool for your German kit. Use it to negotiate plans or set boundaries.

You will hear this everywhere in Germany. Use it when planning a hike: 'We go, provided it doesn't rain.' Use it in the office: 'I'll finish the report, provided I get the data.' It is perfect for making promises with a safety net. It shows you are thinking ahead and considering the details. It is very common in spoken and written German.

Don't use this for things that are 100% certain. If the sun is already shining, don't say 'provided the sun shines.' Also, avoid it in very high-stress emotional outbursts. It sounds a bit too logical when you are shouting in joy or anger. It is a 'head' phrase, not a 'heart' phrase. Keep it for logical conditions and arrangements.

Germans love clarity and 'Ordnung' (order). This phrase reflects that perfectly. It allows everyone to know exactly where they stand. There is no ambiguity when you use vorausgesetzt. It is the linguistic version of a firm handshake. It shows you are reliable but also realistic about circumstances. It is a very 'German' way to manage expectations.

You might hear people just say vorausgesetzt at the end of a sentence. For example: 'Ich komme mit, gutes Wetter vorausgesetzt.' This is a shorter, more elegant way to say the same thing. You can also use unter der Bedingung, dass (on the condition that). However, our phrase is much more common in daily life. It strikes the perfect balance between casual and serious.