Whoever: The Indefinite 'Wer' (Relativpronomen wer)
wer for general statements about people, remembering to decline it and use a correlative when cases differ.
Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds
Use 'wer' to mean 'whoever' or 'anyone who' when the antecedent is missing or indefinite.
- Use 'wer' as the subject of a relative clause: 'Wer das sagt, hat recht.' (Whoever says that is right.)
- Use 'wen' for the accusative object: 'Wen du auch fragst, er wird dir helfen.' (Whoever you ask, he will help you.)
- Use 'wem' for the dative object: 'Wem ich vertraue, dem sage ich alles.' (Whoever I trust, I tell everything.)
Overview
The indefinite relative pronoun wer in German is a sophisticated grammatical construct essential for C1 learners. Unlike the interrogative pronoun wer (Who?), this wer functions to introduce a relative clause that lacks a specific antecedent. Instead, it refers to an unspecified person or group of people, effectively meaning "whoever," "anyone who," or "he who." This grammatical feature allows for the formulation of general truths, universal statements, proverbs, and instructions that apply broadly rather than to an identified individual.
The primary linguistic principle behind wer as an indefinite relative pronoun is syntactic compression and generalization. It merges the role of a general antecedent (like derjenige – "the one") with the function of a relative pronoun (like der – "who"). This creates a concise and impactful way to express propositions about a hypothetical or unknown agent.
Mastering wer enhances your ability to articulate complex, abstract ideas, moving beyond specific observations to universally applicable rules. It often appears in contexts requiring a degree of formality or timeless wisdom, reflecting its capacity to convey established principles or warnings.
Consider its role in common German proverbs. A saying like Wer anderen eine Grube gräbt, fällt selbst hinein (Whoever digs a pit for others falls into it themselves) doesn't refer to a specific person digging a specific pit. It conveys a universal truth about karma or consequences, applicable to anyone who might undertake such an action.
This usage demonstrates how wer constructs a hypothetical scenario where the actor is undefined, yet the consequence is certain.
The wer-clause operates as a dependent clause, influencing the structure of the main clause it modifies. Its inherent indefiniteness makes it a powerful rhetorical device, often used to impart advice, regulations, or philosophical observations. For C1 learners, understanding wer allows for greater precision in expressing nuanced meanings, differentiating between statements about known entities and those about general possibilities.
It signifies a transition from concrete descriptions to abstract, rule-based communication.
How This Grammar Works
wer operates by combining two grammatical functions into one word: it acts as both the antecedent (the noun or pronoun it refers to) and the relative pronoun (which introduces the relative clause). In standard relative clauses, you first have an antecedent (e.g., der Mann) followed by a relative pronoun (der) that refers back to it (der Mann, der...). With indefinite wer, the antecedent is implicit and generalized, making wer itself the initial point of reference.wer inherently carries the meaning of "the person who" or "anyone who." The clause introduced by wer functions as a subject clause or an object clause within the larger sentence structure, directly informing the main clause about its generalized subject or object. For instance, in Wer zu spät kommt, den bestraft das Leben (Whoever comes too late, life punishes them), Wer zu spät kommt functions as a subject clause, and wer itself is the subject of this clause.wer-construction is the frequent use of a correlative pronoun in the subsequent main clause. This correlative, typically a form of the demonstrative pronoun der, die, das (e.g., der, den, dem), serves to explicitly pick up the reference initiated by wer. It acts as a structural anchor, linking the indefinite wer-clause to the action or state described in the main clause.wer in the subordinate clause and its implied role in the main clause differ. Without the correlative, the main clause might lack a clear subject or object that aligns with the indefinite reference, leading to ambiguity.Wer rastet, der rostet (Whoever rests, rusts), wer is nominative in the subordinate clause (subject of rastet), and der is nominative in the main clause (subject of rostet). Here, the correlative der explicitly reinforces the link. When cases diverge, the correlative becomes crucial.Wem die Jacke passt, der soll sie anziehen (Whoever the jacket fits, they should put it on). Here, wem is dative in the subordinate clause, but the main clause requires a nominative subject, which is supplied by der. This mechanism demonstrates how German maintains grammatical coherence despite the initial indefiniteness, providing a clear bridge between the clauses.wer-clause always functions as a subordinate clause, meaning its finite verb moves to the end of the clause. This strict word order is a hallmark of German complex sentence structures and applies consistently here. The main clause then typically follows, often starting with the correlative pronoun, which takes the first position before the main clause verb (Verb-Zweit-Stellung).Formation Pattern
wer requires careful attention to case, the use of correlative pronouns, and verb placement. This pattern is essentially a combination of a subordinate wer-clause and a main clause, which often includes a reference back to the wer-clause. Precision in each step ensures grammatical correctness and clarity.
wer: The pronoun wer must be declined according to its grammatical function (case) within its own subordinate clause. This declension is identical to that of the interrogative pronoun wer, indicating its role as subject, direct object, indirect object, or possessor within the dependent clause.
wer (Subject) |
wen (Direct Object) |
wem (Indirect Object) |
wessen (Possessive) |
Wer den Schaden hat, braucht für den Spott nicht zu sorgen. (Whoever has the damage doesn't need to worry about the scorn.)
Wen man einmal betrogen hat, den wird man selten wieder vertrauen. (Whom one has once betrayed, one will rarely trust again.)
Wem das Buch gefällt, dem empfehle ich auch den Film dazu. (Whom the book pleases, to them I also recommend the film.)
Wessen Handy klingelt, dessen Name wird notiert. (Whose cell phone rings, their name will be noted.)
wer-clause. This correlative is a form of the demonstrative pronoun der, die, das, and its case is determined by its grammatical function within the main clause. Critically, the gender of the correlative is always masculine singular, even when wer implicitly refers to women or a group. This is because wer itself is grammatically treated as a masculine singular indefinite pronoun in this construction, dictating the gender of its referent correlative.
der |
den |
dem |
dessen |
wer in the subordinate clause differs from the case required for its referent in the main clause. Omitting it when cases differ results in ungrammatical sentences. It is optional, but often used for stylistic reasons (emphasis, rhythm, clarity), when both cases are nominative. Its inclusion in nominative-nominative contexts lends a more traditional or emphatic tone.
wer-clause functions as a subordinate clause and typically precedes the main clause. Its finite verb always occupies the final position of the clause. After the wer-clause, a comma separates it from the main clause. The main clause then begins with the correlative pronoun (if present), which occupies the first position, followed immediately by the finite verb in the second position (Verb-Zweit-Stellung). If the correlative is omitted (only permissible when both clauses' implied cases are nominative), the main clause begins directly with its finite verb.
Wer schweigt, (der) stimmt zu. (Whoever remains silent, (they) agree.)
Wen die Arbeit nicht ehrt, der soll sie nicht tun. (Whom the work does not honor, they should not do it.)
Wem es am schnellsten geht, den ehren wir besonders. (Whom it goes fastest for, them we particularly honor.)
Wessen Rede hohl klingt, der wird nicht ernst genommen. (Whose speech sounds hollow, they are not taken seriously.)
wer in your advanced German constructions, allowing you to create nuanced and grammatically impeccable sentences that express general propositions.
When To Use It
wer is primarily utilized when you need to make a statement of general validity, applying to any person who fulfills a specific condition or characteristic, without identifying that person. This makes it a cornerstone for expressing universal truths, established rules, or broadly applicable observations. Its C1 relevance lies in its ability to abstract from specific instances to general principles, moving beyond concrete examples to formulate general regulations or insights.Sprichwörter und Lebensweisheiten). These short, pithy statements often encapsulate traditional wisdom and inherently refer to anyone. For example, Wer zuerst kommt, mahlt zuerst (First come, first served) is a direct application, conveying a widely understood principle without needing to name individuals.Wer den Pfennig nicht ehrt, ist des Talers nicht wert (Whoever doesn't honor the penny isn't worth the dollar) expresses a universal principle about valuing small things. Using wer in such contexts lends an air of authority and timelessness to your statement.Wer is also frequently found in formal contexts, such as legal texts, regulations, instructions, and terms of service. Here, its indefiniteness ensures that the rule applies universally to anyone interacting with the system or document. Phrases like Wer diesen Vertrag unterzeichnet, erklärt sich mit den Bedingungen einverstanden (Whoever signs this contract agrees to the terms) are typical.Wer die Prüfung nicht besteht, muss sie wiederholen. (Whoever does not pass the exam must repeat it.)wer is highly effective. If you say, Wer hätte das gedacht? (Who would have thought that?), you aren't asking about a specific person; you're expressing a general surprise applicable to anyone. Similarly, in social commentary or expressing frustration, you might hear or read: Wer so etwas zulässt, hat keine Ahnung (Whoever allows something like that has no idea).wer can be used to make relatable observations or playful comments. A social media post might quip: Wer diesen Beitrag liket, ist cool (Whoever likes this post is cool), directly engaging a generalized audience. This informal adoption highlights its versatility across different registers, from ancient proverbs to contemporary digital interactions.Wer später kommt, zahlt die Runde! (Whoever arrives late pays for the round!)wer offers a grammatically elegant way to achieve gender-neutrality when referring to an unspecified person. Instead of cumbersome constructions like der/diejenige, der/die..., wer inherently covers all genders. This makes it a valuable tool in modern German for inclusive language, especially when writing guidelines or making general statements about people.Wer eine gute Idee hat, soll sie teilen (Whoever has a good idea should share it) applies equally to all, irrespective of gender. This aligns with contemporary linguistic trends favoring inclusive forms.Common Mistakes
wer, primarily revolving around case agreement, correlative usage, and word order. Recognizing these typical error patterns is crucial for achieving C1-level accuracy and sounding natural to native speakers.wer. English "whoever" does not change form, leading learners to mistakenly use wer in all cases. However, German wer must decline according to its function within the subordinate clause. Using wer when wen (accusative) or wem (dative) is required is a clear indicator of grammatical imprecision. For instance, Wer du triffst, ist wichtig (Whoever you meet is important) is incorrect. The correct form is Wen du triffst, der ist wichtig (Whomever you meet is important), because "whoever" is the direct object of triffst. Similarly, Wer das Geld gehört, soll es behalten (Whoever the money belongs to should keep it) should be Wem das Geld gehört, der soll es behalten (To whom the money belongs, they should keep it), as gehören takes the dative. These errors disrupt the essential case agreement within the sentence structure.der, den, dem, dessen) is essential when the grammatical case of wer in the subordinate clause does not align with the grammatical case required for its referent in the main clause. A common mistake is Wer lügt, man glaubt nicht (Whoever lies, one doesn't believe). This sentence lacks a dative pronoun in the main clause to correspond to the implied recipient of glauben. The correct form is Wer lügt, dem glaubt man nicht (Whoever lies, one doesn't believe them), where dem serves as the necessary dative object. Failing to include this correlative leaves a syntactic gap, making the sentence sound incomplete and ungrammatical to native speakers. The correlative acts as a necessary bridge, particularly for differing cases.wer-clause in the second position, mimicking main clause word order. For example, *Wer lernt fleißig, der wird erfolgreich sein is incorrect. The finite verb of a subordinate clause must be at the end: Wer fleißig lernt, der wird erfolgreich sein. This rule applies without exception to wer-clauses. Misplacing the verb immediately signals a non-native construction and disrupts the flow of the sentence, making it harder for a listener to parse. The Verb-Last-Stellung is a fundamental principle of German subordinate clauses.wer for inanimate objects or abstract concepts. Wer is strictly reserved for people. For objects, events, or abstract ideas, the indefinite relative pronoun was is employed. An error like Wer kaputt ist, muss repariert werden (Whoever is broken must be repaired) is wrong if referring to a machine or a broken item. The correct form would be Was kaputt ist, muss repariert werden. (What is broken must be repaired.) This distinction is fundamental and prevents semantic ambiguity; wer always implies a sentient being. Understanding these common pitfalls and actively correcting them will significantly improve your proficiency with this C1-level grammatical structure.Real Conversations
Wer is not confined to antiquated proverbs; it thrives in modern German communication across various registers, from casual chat to more formal discourse. Observing its usage in authentic contexts provides valuable insight into its pragmatic function and stylistic implications.
In casual conversation and texting, wer is frequently used to make general statements or humorous observations that apply to a group. It allows for a lighthearted yet impactful generalization. For instance, in a group chat after a late night: Wer jetzt noch wach ist, sollte dringend ins Bett gehen. (Whoever is still awake now should urgently go to bed.) Here, the speaker isn't addressing a specific person but a generalized "anyone still awake." Another common informal use: Wer das versteht, ist ein Genie! (Whoever understands that is a genius!) – a playful compliment or self-deprecating comment.
On social media and online forums, wer facilitates engagement and creates universally relatable content. It's an effective way to poll opinions or make broad statements without direct addressing. A popular post might read: Wer das auch so sieht, bitte Daumen hoch! (Whoever also sees it this way, please give a thumbs up!). This invites general agreement or participation. Similarly, in response to a complex issue: Wer sich da keine Gedanken macht, lebt wohl auf einem anderen Planeten. (Whoever doesn't worry about that probably lives on another planet.) – expressing a generalized critique.
In work emails or official announcements, wer maintains its formal utility for outlining responsibilities or procedures that apply to all employees or members of an organization. This ensures clarity and universal applicability. An email might state: Wer an der Schulung teilnehmen möchte, meldet sich bitte bis Freitag an. (Whoever wishes to participate in the training, please register by Friday.). This avoids listing specific individuals, ensuring the rule applies to any interested party. For team instructions: Wer mit dieser Aufgabe fertig ist, der hilft bitte dem Team A. (Whoever is finished with this task, please help Team A.).
Even in academic discussions or presentations, wer can be used to introduce general principles or to frame arguments about human behavior or societal trends. Wer die Geschichte kennt, der versteht die Gegenwart besser. (Whoever knows history, understands the present better.). This statement is not directed at a specific historian but at anyone who engages with historical knowledge. This versatility across different social and professional settings demonstrates that wer is a living, functional part of the German language, far from being an archaic construction.
Quick FAQ
Can I use wer for things or inanimate objects?
No, wer is strictly reserved for people or personified entities. For objects, situations, or abstract concepts, you must use the indefinite relative pronoun was. For example, Was du heute kannst besorgen, das verschiebe nicht auf morgen. (What you can do today, don't postpone until tomorrow.) This is a crucial distinction.
Is the correlative pronoun (e.g., der, den, dem) always mandatory?
Not always, but almost always recommended for clarity, especially at the C1 level. It is obligatory when the grammatical case of wer in the subordinate clause differs from the case required for its referent in the main clause. If both clauses require the nominative case, the correlative der is optional but often included for emphasis or rhythm. For instance, Wer schweigt, (der) stimmt zu. (Whoever remains silent, (they) agree.)
Does wer have a plural form?
Grammatically, wer is always treated as singular masculine for agreement purposes with the correlative, even if it implicitly refers to multiple people. You would not use a plural form for wer itself. If you specifically need to refer to a plural group, you might rephrase using diejenigen, die... (those who...) or a more direct plural construction.
Is wer more formal than jemand, der?
Yes, wer generally carries a more formal, official, or proverbial tone compared to jemand, der (someone who), which is typically more casual and refers to a slightly more specific, albeit still unidentified, individual. Wer is suited for universal statements, while jemand, der might be used for observations about a single, generic person.
Can I use a wer-clause in the middle of a sentence, or does it always have to start the sentence?
While wer-clauses most commonly introduce a sentence for emphasis and clarity, they can technically appear in the middle, functioning as an inserted clause. However, this is less frequent and often makes the sentence more complex. When an indefinite relative clause is needed mid-sentence, constructions with derjenige, der or alle, die are often preferred for better flow and unambiguous reference. The strong emphasis of wer usually works best at the beginning.
Can wer be used with prepositions?
Yes, just like other relative pronouns, wer can be preceded by a preposition. The preposition determines the case of wer. For example, Mit wem man spricht, der sollte ehrlich sein. (With whom one speaks, they should be honest.) The preposition mit requires the dative case, hence wem.
How does wer contrast with derjenige, der?
Both refer to an unspecified person, but wer is more general and abstract, often found in proverbs or universal rules, acting as a standalone antecedent. Derjenige, der is more specific and demonstrative, meaning "the one who" or "he who," pointing to a particular (though still unnamed) individual from a defined group, or one you might be thinking of. Derjenige, der mein Fahrrad gestohlen hat, ist schnell davongefahren. (The one who stole my bike rode away quickly.) – implies a specific thief you might be looking for, unlike a general rule. This distinction is crucial for C1 learners aiming for precise expression.
Case Declension of 'Wer'
| Case | Pronoun | Function |
|---|---|---|
|
Nominative
|
Wer
|
Subject
|
|
Accusative
|
Wen
|
Direct Object
|
|
Dative
|
Wem
|
Indirect Object
|
|
Genitive
|
Wessen
|
Possessive
|
Meanings
The pronoun 'wer' acts as an indefinite relative pronoun, functioning as a noun phrase that refers to an unspecified person.
Generalizing
Referring to any person who meets a condition.
“Wer hier arbeitet, muss pünktlich sein.”
“Wer das nicht versteht, sollte nachfragen.”
Reference Table
| Form | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
|
Nominative
|
Wer + Verb ...
|
Wer arbeitet, verdient Geld.
|
|
Accusative
|
Wen + Subj + Verb ...
|
Wen du siehst, den grüße.
|
|
Dative
|
Wem + Subj + Verb ...
|
Wem ich vertraue, dem helfe ich.
|
|
Genitive
|
Wessen + Noun + Verb ...
|
Wessen Tasche hier liegt, der soll sie nehmen.
|
|
Negative
|
Wer nicht + Verb ...
|
Wer nicht fragt, bleibt dumm.
|
|
Interrogative
|
Wer + Verb ...?
|
Wer hat das gesagt?
|
Formality Spectrum
Wer teilnehmen möchte, möge sich anmelden. (Invitation)
Wer mitkommen will, kann mitkommen. (Invitation)
Wer Bock hat, kommt mit. (Invitation)
Wer will, der kann. (Invitation)
The Wer-Clause Ecosystem
Case
- Wer Nom
- Wen Acc
- Wem Dat
Function
- Generalization Universal
- Condition If-then
Examples by Level
Wer kommt, der isst.
Whoever comes, eats.
Wer spielt, gewinnt.
Whoever plays, wins.
Wer lernt, weiß viel.
Whoever learns, knows a lot.
Wer fragt, lernt.
Whoever asks, learns.
Wen du siehst, den grüße.
Whoever you see, greet them.
Wem ich helfe, der dankt mir.
Whoever I help, thanks me.
Wer das sagt, hat keine Ahnung.
Whoever says that has no clue.
Wen man liebt, den vergisst man nicht.
Whoever you love, you don't forget.
Wer nicht wagt, der nicht gewinnt.
Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
Wem das nicht gefällt, der kann gehen.
Whoever doesn't like that can leave.
Wen auch immer du triffst, sei höflich.
Whoever you meet, be polite.
Wer sich anmeldet, bekommt einen Platz.
Whoever registers gets a spot.
Wer sich in Gefahr begibt, kommt darin um.
He who seeks danger will perish in it.
Wem das Schicksal wohlgesonnen ist, dem gelingt alles.
Whoever fate favors, succeeds in everything.
Wen die Götter lieben, den lassen sie jung sterben.
Whom the gods love, they let die young.
Wer auch immer den Fehler gemacht hat, muss ihn korrigieren.
Whoever made the mistake must correct it.
Wer da auch kommen mag, wir sind vorbereitet.
Whoever may come, we are prepared.
Wessen Auto hier steht, der muss es umparken.
Whose car is standing here must move it.
Wen man auch fragt, die Antwort bleibt dieselbe.
Whoever you ask, the answer remains the same.
Wer sich der Wahrheit verweigert, der betrügt sich selbst.
Whoever denies the truth cheats themselves.
Wer sich selbst nicht zu führen weiß, der wird stets geführt werden.
He who cannot lead himself will always be led.
Wem die Freiheit heilig ist, der kämpft für sie.
Whoever holds freedom sacred, fights for it.
Wen das Glück verlässt, den verlässt auch der Mut.
Whoever luck abandons, courage also abandons.
Wer auch immer sich berufen fühlt, möge vortreten.
Whoever feels called, may step forward.
Easily Confused
Learners use 'wer' for specific people.
Learners think every 'wer' is a question.
They mean the same thing.
Common Mistakes
Wer ich sehe, ist nett.
Wen ich sehe, ist nett.
Wer das Buch hat, ich nehme es.
Wer das Buch hat, den nehme ich.
Wer ist hier, der ist glücklich.
Wer hier ist, der ist glücklich.
Wer dem Mann hilft, der ist gut.
Wem der Mann hilft, der ist gut.
Wen kommt, der lacht.
Wer kommt, der lacht.
Wem du siehst, den magst du.
Wen du siehst, den magst du.
Wer ich gebe das Geld, der freut sich.
Wem ich das Geld gebe, der freut sich.
Wer auch immer, er ist da.
Wer auch immer da ist, er ist willkommen.
Wessen das ist, der soll es nehmen.
Wessen das ist, der soll es nehmen.
Wer das sagt, ich glaube ihm nicht.
Wer das sagt, dem glaube ich nicht.
Wer auch immer er ist, ich kenne ihn nicht.
Wer auch immer er sein mag, ich kenne ihn nicht.
Wem man vertraut, der enttäuscht einen nicht.
Wem man vertraut, der enttäuscht einen nicht.
Wer hat das getan, den suche ich.
Wer das getan hat, den suche ich.
Wen das betrifft, der muss zahlen.
Wer davon betroffen ist, der muss zahlen.
Sentence Patterns
Wer ___, der ___.
Wen du ___, den ___.
Wem du ___, dem ___.
Wer auch immer ___, der ___.
Real World Usage
Wer das teilt, ist ein Held!
Wer sich hier bewirbt, muss flexibel sein.
Wer ein Ticket hat, darf einsteigen.
Wer zuerst bestellt, bekommt den Rabatt.
Wer gegen diese Regeln verstößt, wird bestraft.
Wer kommt heute noch?
The Correlative Rule
Don't over-use
Case Agreement
Proverbs
Smart Tips
Use 'wer' instead of 'jeder, der'. It's more concise.
Always use 'wen' for the object.
Use 'wem' for the indirect object.
Use 'wessen' for possession.
Pronunciation
Emphasis
The 'wer' is usually unstressed unless it's the start of a sentence.
Statement
Wer das sagt, ↗ hat recht. ↘
Rising on the relative clause, falling on the main clause.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Wer is the Subject, Wen is the Object, Wem is the Indirect Object. Think: 'Wer' (who) does the action, 'Wen' (whom) receives it, 'Wem' (to whom) gets the benefit.
Visual Association
Imagine a person standing in a doorway. If they walk in, they are the 'Wer'. If you pull them in, they are the 'Wen'. If you give them a gift, they are the 'Wem'.
Rhyme
Wer macht das, Wen siehst du an, Wem gibst du den Plan?
Story
A king stands on a balcony. 'Wer' (the hero) approaches. The king points to 'Wen' (the prisoner) and says 'Wem' (the guard) should take him away. The hero saves the day.
Word Web
Challenge
Write 3 sentences using 'Wer', 'Wen', and 'Wem' about your daily routine.
Cultural Notes
Germans value precision. Using 'wer' correctly shows you understand the logical structure of the language.
Austrians often use 'wer' in formal contexts, similar to standard German.
In Swiss German, 'wer' is used, but the correlative pronoun is sometimes omitted in casual speech.
Derived from the Old High German 'hwër', which functioned as both interrogative and indefinite.
Conversation Starters
Wer ist deiner Meinung nach der beste Autor?
Wen würdest du auf eine einsame Insel mitnehmen?
Wem würdest du dein Leben anvertrauen?
Wer auch immer die Welt regieren würde, was wäre sein erstes Gesetz?
Journal Prompts
Common Mistakes
Test Yourself
___ (Nom) das sagt, hat recht.
___ (Acc) du liebst, den heiratest du.
Find and fix the mistake:
Wer ich sehe, den grüße ich.
Arrange the words in the correct order:
All words placed
Click words above to build the sentence
Whoever helps me is my friend.
Answer starts with: Wer...
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Wem / ich / vertraue / dem / helfe / ich
Wer das sagt, ___ hat keine Ahnung.
Score: /8
Practice Exercises
8 exercises___ (Nom) das sagt, hat recht.
___ (Acc) du liebst, den heiratest du.
Find and fix the mistake:
Wer ich sehe, den grüße ich.
den / grüße / Wen / ich / sehe / ich
Whoever helps me is my friend.
Match Nominative, Accusative, Dative.
Wem / ich / vertraue / dem / helfe / ich
Wer das sagt, ___ hat keine Ahnung.
Score: /8
Practice Bank
10 exercises___ das gehört, der soll es abholen.
wer / rastet / der / rostet
Whoever likes pizza is my friend.
Match the following:
Select the correct complex sentence:
Wer das liest, ___ ist mein bester Freund.
Wer kommt zuerst, der mahlt zuerst.
Translate to German:
Pick the proverb:
___ Name auf der Liste steht, der darf rein.
Score: /10
FAQ (8)
No, 'wer' is strictly for people. Use 'was' for things.
Usually, yes, as it introduces the relative clause.
Ask yourself: is the person the subject (wer), the object (wen), or the indirect object (wem)?
It can be both. It's used in everyday speech and formal writing.
It acts as a pointer to the relative clause, making the sentence structure clear.
Yes, but that's the interrogative 'wer', not the relative 'wer'.
Use 'wessen' for possession, e.g., 'Wessen Auto das ist, der soll es wegfahren.'
Not really, 'wer' is standard across all German-speaking regions.
Scaffolded Practice
1
2
3
4
Mastery Progress
Needs Practice
Improving
Strong
Mastered
In Other Languages
Quien
Spanish 'quien' is invariant for gender but changes for number (quienes).
Qui
French requires different pronouns for subject and object.
Whoever
English lacks the case system (wen/wem) that German requires.
Dare-demo
Japanese is agglutinative; German is inflectional.
Man
Arabic has a different root system.
Shéi
Chinese has no verb conjugation or case system.
Learning Path
Prerequisites
Related Grammar Rules
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