At the A1 level, you are just beginning your journey into the German language. You are learning basic vocabulary, simple sentence structures, and how to introduce yourself. The word 'obgleich' is generally not taught at this stage because it involves complex grammar rules that are too advanced for beginners. Instead, you will learn the word 'aber', which means 'but'. 'Aber' is a coordinating conjunction, which means it simply connects two normal sentences without changing the word order. For example, you might say, 'Es regnet, aber ich gehe spazieren' (It is raining, but I am going for a walk). This is easy and straightforward. If you happen to see or hear 'obgleich' while reading a text or listening to a more advanced speaker, you do not need to know how to use it yourself yet. Just try to remember that it means something very similar to 'aber'. It introduces a contrast or a surprise. It tells you that even though one thing is true, another thing happens anyway. Focus on mastering 'aber' and simple sentences first. As you progress in your German studies, you will eventually learn how to build the more complex sentences that require words like this. For now, simply recognize it as a formal way of saying 'although' or 'even though', and rely on your basic vocabulary to express contrasting ideas in your own conversations.
At the A2 level, you are starting to build more complex sentences. You are learning about subordinate clauses (Nebensätze) using words like 'weil' (because) and 'dass' (that). You are learning the crucial rule that these words push the conjugated verb to the very end of the sentence. While 'obwohl' (although) is the standard word taught at this level for expressing concession (a contrast), 'obgleich' is its slightly more formal twin. You might encounter it in reading texts, simple news articles, or stories. The grammar rule is exactly the same as for 'weil' and 'obwohl'. If you want to say 'Although I am tired, I am learning', you use the conjunction, put the subject next, and push the verb to the end: '..., obgleich ich müde bin.' If you start the sentence with this clause, remember that the second part of the sentence must start with the verb: 'Obgleich ich müde bin, lerne ich.' At this stage, it is perfectly fine if you only use 'obwohl' in your own speaking and writing. However, recognizing 'obgleich' and understanding that it triggers the exact same verb-at-the-end rule is a great step forward. It prepares you for the B1 level, where you will be expected to understand and occasionally use a wider variety of conjunctions to make your German sound more natural and varied. Keep practicing the verb-final word order, as it is one of the most important grammatical concepts in the German language.
Welcome to the B1 level, where 'obgleich' becomes an active and important part of your vocabulary. At this stage, you are expected to express yourself more clearly and connect your ideas with more sophisticated linking words. You already know 'obwohl', but using 'obgleich' adds variety and a touch of formality to your German, especially in writing. It is a subordinating conjunction, meaning it introduces a dependent clause and forces the finite verb to the end. For example: 'Er hat die Prüfung bestanden, obgleich er wenig gelernt hat.' You must also master the inverted word order when the subordinate clause comes first: 'Obgleich er wenig gelernt hat, hat er die Prüfung bestanden.' Notice how the two verbs ('hat' and 'hat') are separated only by a comma. This 'verb, comma, verb' structure is a classic B1 grammar point. You should use this word when writing formal emails, essays, or when taking your B1 exam, as it demonstrates a broader vocabulary than just repeating 'obwohl'. However, be aware of the register: in casual conversations with friends, 'obwohl' remains the more natural choice. 'Obgleich' sounds a bit too stiff for chatting over a beer. Your goal at B1 is to understand this difference in tone and to apply the grammatical rules flawlessly. Practice writing sentences contrasting different situations, ensuring your commas are in the right place and your verbs are at the absolute end of the subordinate clause.
At the B2 level, your focus shifts towards fluency, nuance, and mastering different registers of the German language. 'Obgleich' is a perfect tool for this. While B1 was about learning the grammar, B2 is about applying it strategically. In B2 writing tasks, such as formal letters, argumentative essays, or reports, using 'obgleich' instead of 'obwohl' immediately elevates your text. It signals to the reader (or examiner) that you have a strong command of formal German (Hochdeutsch) and can vary your vocabulary effectively. You should be completely comfortable with the syntax by now: the verb goes to the end of the clause, and if the clause starts the sentence, the main clause begins with the verb. At this level, you will also encounter this word frequently in authentic texts: newspaper articles (like those in Die Zeit or FAZ), literature, and professional correspondence. You should be able to read complex, multi-clause sentences containing this word without losing the thread of the argument. Furthermore, you should understand how it compares to other concessive connectors like 'wenngleich' (even more formal) or 'auch wenn' (conditional concession). Make a conscious effort to incorporate 'obgleich' into your active written vocabulary. When speaking in formal situations, such as a job interview or a university presentation, slipping this word into your discourse will make you sound highly educated and articulate.
At the C1 level, you are approaching near-native proficiency. Your use of 'obgleich' should be effortless and stylistically deliberate. You are no longer just trying to get the grammar right; you are using the word to shape the rhythm and tone of your sentences. In academic writing, complex professional reports, and sophisticated debates, 'obgleich' is an indispensable structural element. It allows you to elegantly concede a point before delivering a strong counterargument. For example: 'Obgleich die anfänglichen Studien auf einen positiven Trend hindeuteten, zeigen die Langzeitanalysen ein gänzlich anderes Bild.' At this level, you should also be comfortable with highly complex sentence structures where the 'obgleich' clause might be embedded within other clauses, or where it contains extended participial phrases. You should recognize its stylistic value in literature, where authors choose it over 'obwohl' for its softer, more flowing phonetic quality. Furthermore, you should be able to seamlessly switch between 'obgleich', 'obwohl', 'wenngleich', 'ungeachtet der Tatsache, dass', and concessive adverbs like 'nichtsdestotrotz' depending on the exact micro-nuance and rhythm you wish to achieve. Your understanding of the word is now fully integrated into your broader comprehension of German syntax and stylistics, allowing you to comprehend and produce highly sophisticated, nuanced, and structurally flawless German in any formal or academic context.
At the C2 level, your mastery of 'obgleich' is absolute, reflecting a deep, intuitive understanding of German stylistics, historical usage, and literary nuance. You recognize that while 'obgleich' and 'obwohl' are grammatically synonymous, they carry different historical weights and aesthetic qualities. 'Obgleich' has a slightly archaic, poetic, or highly elevated resonance. You will encounter it in the works of Thomas Mann, Hermann Hesse, and classic German philosophy, where it contributes to the dense, hypotactic sentence structures characteristic of elevated German prose. As a C2 speaker, you can deploy this word not just correctly, but artfully. You might use it in a formal speech to create a specific cadence, or in an academic dissertation to project authoritative objectivity. You are also aware of regional and generational variations in its usage, understanding that younger generations might use it less frequently in spoken language, reserving it almost exclusively for high-register writing. You can effortlessly parse sentences where the concessive clause is separated from its main clause by multiple other insertions, maintaining the grammatical logic without hesitation. Your use of 'obgleich' at this level is a conscious stylistic choice, demonstrating your ability to manipulate the German language with the precision and elegance of a highly educated native speaker, fully aware of the subtle shades of meaning and tone that differentiate the vast array of German concessive connectors.

obgleich 30秒了解

  • Means 'although' or 'even though' in English.
  • It is a subordinating conjunction, sending the verb to the end.
  • More formal and elevated than the common word 'obwohl'.
  • Always requires a comma to separate its clause from the main clause.

The German conjunction obgleich is a highly useful and slightly formal word that translates to 'although' or 'even though' in English. It is used to introduce a concessive subordinate clause, which means it expresses a condition or fact that contrasts with the statement made in the main clause, yet does not prevent the action in the main clause from happening. Understanding this word is essential for learners aiming to reach the B1 level and beyond, as it allows for the construction of more complex, nuanced, and sophisticated sentences. When you use this conjunction, you are essentially setting up an expectation and then immediately subverting it. For instance, if it is raining, the logical expectation is that one might stay indoors. However, by using a concessive clause, you indicate that the action happens despite the rain.

Concessive Clause
A subordinate clause that offers a contrast to the main clause.
Subordinating Conjunction
A word that links a dependent clause to an independent clause, forcing the conjugated verb to the end of the dependent clause.
Register
The level of formality. This word is considered more elevated than its common counterpart.

Er ging spazieren, obgleich es stark regnete.

The usage of this word dates back centuries in German literature and remains a staple in written German, journalism, and formal speech. While spoken German often prefers simpler alternatives, mastering this specific conjunction elevates your linguistic profile significantly. It demonstrates a clear grasp of German syntax and an ability to express contradictory ideas fluidly. Furthermore, the structural rules applying to this word are identical to those applying to other subordinating conjunctions like 'weil', 'dass', and 'wenn'. This means that once you master the verb-final word order for one, you have mastered it for all. Let us look at another example to solidify this concept.

Obgleich sie müde war, lernte sie weiter für die wichtige Prüfung.

Notice how in this second example, the subordinate clause comes first. When the subordinate clause occupies the first position in the entire sentence structure, the main clause must immediately begin with its conjugated verb. This is known as the verb-second rule for the main clause, or simply 'verb comma verb' in learner terms. This inversion is a classic stumbling block for English speakers, because English maintains the subject-verb order in the main clause regardless of what precedes it. In German, the entire subordinate clause acts as position one.

Wir haben das Spiel gewonnen, obgleich wir in der ersten Halbzeit sehr schlecht gespielt haben.

Obgleich das Auto sehr teuer ist, möchte er es unbedingt kaufen.

Sie kam pünktlich zur Arbeit, obgleich ihr Zug erhebliche Verspätung hatte.

By analyzing these five figures, you can clearly see the pattern. The word connects two opposing ideas seamlessly, requiring a comma to separate the clauses, and demanding strict adherence to German verb placement rules. It is a beautiful, highly functional piece of grammar that bridges the gap between basic communication and advanced fluency.

Using the conjunction obgleich correctly requires a solid understanding of German sentence structure, specifically the rules governing subordinate clauses (Nebensätze). As a subordinating conjunction, its primary grammatical function is to link a dependent clause to an independent main clause (Hauptsatz). The most critical rule to remember is that it forces the finite (conjugated) verb to the very end of the clause it introduces. This is a fundamental aspect of German syntax that applies to a whole family of conjunctions, but it is especially important here because concessive clauses often contain complex information. Let us break down the mechanics.

Main Clause First
Subject + Verb + Object, [Conjunction] + Subject + Object + Verb.
Subordinate Clause First
[Conjunction] + Subject + Object + Verb, Verb + Subject + Object.
Punctuation
A comma must always separate the main clause from the subordinate clause.

Ich trinke einen Kaffee, obgleich es schon sehr spät am Abend ist.

In the figure above, the main clause 'Ich trinke einen Kaffee' follows standard word order. The conjunction introduces the dependent clause, pushing the verb 'ist' to the end. Now, let us examine what happens when we flip the order.

Obgleich es schon sehr spät am Abend ist, trinke ich einen Kaffee.

Here, the entire dependent clause occupies the first position of the overall sentence. Because German is a V2 (verb-second) language in main clauses, the verb of the main clause ('trinke') must immediately follow the comma. This creates the characteristic 'verb, verb' collision that learners often find challenging but is entirely logical within the framework of German grammar. Furthermore, when dealing with separable verbs or modal verbs in the perfect tense, the word order at the end of the subordinate clause can become quite crowded. If you have a modal verb and a main verb in the perfect tense, the conjugated auxiliary verb (usually 'haben') typically comes before the two infinitives (the double infinitive rule), though this is more of an advanced C1/C2 nuance. For B1 learners, focusing on standard perfect and simple past tenses is sufficient.

Er hat die Prüfung bestanden, obgleich er nicht viel gelernt hatte.

Obgleich wir uns beeilt haben, haben wir den Bus verpasst.

Sie lächelte, obgleich sie innerlich sehr traurig war.

Another crucial aspect of using this word is understanding its stylistic weight. It is not the most common word for 'although' in everyday spoken German; that title belongs to 'obwohl'. However, using it in written texts, such as emails, essays, or formal letters, immediately signals to the reader that you have a strong command of the language. It adds a layer of polish and sophistication. When you are writing your B1 or B2 certification exams, deliberately choosing this word over its simpler synonyms can earn you extra points for vocabulary range and stylistic appropriateness. Always ensure your commas are placed correctly, as German punctuation rules regarding subordinate clauses are strict and mandatory, unlike in English where they can sometimes be optional.

The context in which you encounter the conjunction obgleich is a fascinating study in German sociolinguistics and register. Unlike its ubiquitous cousin 'obwohl', which is heard in every corner of the German-speaking world from playgrounds to pubs, this particular word occupies a more elevated, formal, and often written space. You are highly likely to encounter it in literature, ranging from classic works by Goethe and Schiller to contemporary novels. Authors prefer it because it has a slightly softer, more melodic cadence than the abrupt 'obwohl', allowing for a more rhythmic flow in complex sentences.

Literature
Frequently used in novels, poetry, and historical texts for its rhythmic quality.
Journalism
Common in broadsheet newspapers, editorials, and analytical articles.
Academia
Standard in academic papers, university lectures, and formal research.

Der Minister trat zurück, obgleich er alle Vorwürfe bestritt.

In the realm of journalism, particularly in serious publications like the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, Die Zeit, or the Neue Zürcher Zeitung, this word is a staple. Journalists use it to present contrasting facts objectively and formally. When reporting on politics, economics, or global events, the elevated register of the word matches the gravity of the subject matter. You will also hear it in formal speeches, such as addresses by the Chancellor or the President, where language is carefully crafted to project authority and education. In academic settings, university professors and researchers rely heavily on concessive clauses to acknowledge counterarguments before presenting their own thesis. In a dissertation or a master's thesis, using this conjunction demonstrates academic rigor and a sophisticated command of the language.

Die Studie lieferte eindeutige Ergebnisse, obgleich die Stichprobengröße relativ klein war.

Obgleich die Theorie weithin akzeptiert ist, gibt es dennoch kritische Stimmen.

Conversely, where do you *not* hear it? You will rarely hear it in a casual conversation between friends at a café. If you say, 'Ich esse den Kuchen, obgleich ich auf Diät bin' to a close friend, it might sound slightly overly formal or even a bit humorous, as if you are speaking like a 19th-century poet. In everyday speech, 'obwohl' is the undisputed king. However, this does not mean you should avoid speaking it entirely. In a formal job interview, a business presentation, or when speaking to an authority figure, using it can leave a very positive impression.

Ich bewerbe mich um diese Position, obgleich ich aus einer anderen Branche komme.

Das Projekt wurde rechtzeitig abgeschlossen, obgleich es unerwartete Verzögerungen gab.

Understanding these nuances of register is what separates an intermediate learner from an advanced speaker. It is not just about knowing what a word means, but knowing *when* it is culturally and socially appropriate to deploy it.

When learning to use the conjunction obgleich, students frequently encounter a specific set of grammatical and stylistic pitfalls. Because it introduces a subordinate clause, the rules governing its use are strict, and deviations are immediately noticeable to native speakers. The most prevalent mistake, by a wide margin, is incorrect verb placement. English speakers naturally want to maintain the Subject-Verb-Object (SVO) order they are comfortable with.

Verb Position Error
Failing to push the conjugated verb to the very end of the subordinate clause.
Main Clause Inversion Error
Forgetting to start the main clause with the verb when the subordinate clause comes first.
Comma Omission
Failing to separate the dependent and independent clauses with a comma.

WRONG: Er schwimmt, obgleich das Wasser ist kalt.
RIGHT: Er schwimmt, obgleich das Wasser kalt ist.

In the incorrect example above, the learner has treated the conjunction as if it were a coordinating conjunction like 'aber' or 'und', leaving the verb 'ist' in the second position. This is grammatically incorrect in German. The conjunction acts as a magnet, pulling the conjugated verb to the absolute end of the clause. Another major hurdle occurs when the sentence begins with the concessive clause.

WRONG: Obgleich es regnet, ich gehe spazieren.
RIGHT: Obgleich es regnet, gehe ich spazieren.

A third common mistake is confusing this conjunction with concessive adverbs like 'trotzdem' or 'dennoch'. While they convey a very similar meaning (expressing a contrast or concession), their grammatical function is entirely different. 'Trotzdem' is an adverb and usually starts a new main clause, causing an inversion of subject and verb immediately after it, but it does NOT send the verb to the end of the clause.

CONJUNCTION: Er arbeitet, obgleich er krank ist.
ADVERB: Er ist krank. Trotzdem arbeitet er.

Mixing up these structures leads to sentences that are structurally mangled and confusing. Furthermore, learners sometimes attempt to use it as a preposition, similar to 'trotz' (despite). 'Trotz' is followed by a noun phrase (usually in the genitive case), whereas our conjunction must be followed by a full clause containing a subject and a conjugated verb.

WRONG: Obgleich des Regens, gingen wir raus.
RIGHT: Trotz des Regens gingen wir raus. OR Obgleich es regnete, gingen wir raus.

WRONG: Ich mag ihn, obgleich seiner Fehler.
RIGHT: Ich mag ihn, obgleich er Fehler hat.

By being mindful of these common errors—verb placement, main clause inversion, confusing adverbs with conjunctions, and confusing prepositions with conjunctions—you can dramatically improve the accuracy and fluency of your German writing and speaking. Mastery of these rules is a hallmark of a strong B1/B2 speaker.

The German language is rich in words that express concession, offering learners a variety of tools to articulate contrasting ideas. While obgleich is a fantastic word to have in your arsenal, it is part of a larger family of concessive connectors. Understanding the subtle differences in meaning, register, and grammar between these similar words is crucial for developing a nuanced and natural-sounding German vocabulary. The most immediate and common synonym is 'obwohl'.

Obwohl
The most common subordinating conjunction for 'although'. Used in all registers, especially spoken German.
Wenngleich
A highly formal, elegant synonym. Often used in written, academic, or literary contexts.
Auch wenn
Translates to 'even if'. It introduces a hypothetical or conditional concession, unlike factual concession.

Ich mag diesen Film, obwohl er sehr lang ist. (Standard, everyday usage)

'Obwohl' is grammatically identical to our target word. It forces the verb to the end of the clause and requires a comma. You can interchange them in almost any sentence without changing the core meaning, though changing the word alters the tone from formal to neutral. If you are ever in doubt during a casual conversation, 'obwohl' is always the safe and natural choice. On the other end of the formality spectrum sits 'wenngleich'. This word is even more elevated and formal. It is rarely heard in spoken German unless someone is giving a highly scripted speech or reading from a text.

Die Ergebnisse sind vielversprechend, wenngleich weitere Forschung nötig ist.

Another important distinction must be made with 'auch wenn'. While 'obwohl' and its synonyms deal with established facts (e.g., it is raining, but I am going out), 'auch wenn' deals with conditions that might or might not be true, or emphasizes the extreme nature of a condition. It translates best to 'even if'.

Auch wenn es morgen regnet, werde ich spazieren gehen. (Hypothetical)

Obgleich es heute regnet, gehe ich spazieren. (Factual)

We must also consider words that express the same logical relationship but use different grammatical structures. As mentioned in the common mistakes section, 'trotzdem' (nevertheless/anyway) and 'dennoch' (yet/however) are adverbs, not conjunctions. They connect two main clauses rather than a main clause and a subordinate clause.

Es regnet stark. Dennoch gehe ich spazieren.

Finally, there is the preposition 'trotz' (despite), which is followed by a noun, usually in the genitive case. 'Trotz des Regens gehe ich spazieren.' By mastering this entire ecosystem of concessive words—obwohl, obgleich, wenngleich, auch wenn, trotzdem, dennoch, and trotz—you gain immense flexibility in how you construct your arguments and narratives in German, allowing you to tailor your language perfectly to the situation, the audience, and the specific nuance you wish to convey.

How Formal Is It?

难度评级

需要掌握的语法

Subordinate clauses (Nebensätze)

Verb-final word order

Verb-second rule in main clauses

Comma rules for complex sentences

Concessive clauses

按水平分级的例句

1

Es regnet, aber ich gehe raus.

It is raining, but I am going out. (Uses 'aber' instead of 'obgleich' for A1)

A1 learners use 'aber' (but) for contrast instead of complex conjunctions.

2

Das Auto ist teuer, aber schön.

The car is expensive, but beautiful.

Simple coordinating conjunction 'aber'.

3

Er ist krank, aber er arbeitet.

He is sick, but he is working.

Connecting two simple main clauses.

4

Ich bin müde, aber ich lerne.

I am tired, but I am learning.

Basic contrast.

5

Das Essen ist kalt, aber gut.

The food is cold, but good.

Simple adjectives connected by 'aber'.

6

Sie ist klein, aber stark.

She is small, but strong.

Contrasting adjectives.

7

Wir haben Zeit, aber kein Geld.

We have time, but no money.

Basic sentence structure.

8

Der Film ist alt, aber lustig.

The movie is old, but funny.

Simple A1 vocabulary.

1

Ich gehe spazieren, obwohl es regnet.

I am going for a walk, although it is raining. (Uses 'obwohl', standard for A2)

'Obwohl' pushes the verb 'regnet' to the end.

2

Obwohl er müde ist, arbeitet er.

Although he is tired, he is working.

Subordinate clause first, so main clause starts with the verb 'arbeitet'.

3

Sie kauft das Buch, obwohl es teuer ist.

She buys the book, although it is expensive.

Verb 'ist' at the end of the subordinate clause.

4

Obwohl wir schnell laufen, kommen wir zu spät.

Although we are running fast, we are arriving late.

Verb comma verb rule: 'laufen, kommen'.

5

Er isst den Kuchen, obwohl er keinen Hunger hat.

He is eating the cake, although he is not hungry.

Verb 'hat' at the end.

6

Obwohl das Wetter schlecht ist, fahren wir ans Meer.

Although the weather is bad, we are driving to the sea.

Comma separates the clauses.

7

Ich trinke Kaffee, obwohl es spät ist.

I am drinking coffee, although it is late.

Standard A2 subordinate clause.

8

Obwohl sie viel lernt, macht sie Fehler.

Although she studies a lot, she makes mistakes.

Inverted main clause.

1

Er kam pünktlich zur Besprechung, obgleich sein Zug Verspätung hatte.

He arrived on time for the meeting, although his train was delayed.

'Obgleich' pushes the auxiliary verb 'hatte' to the end.

2

Obgleich sie sich nicht gut fühlte, ging sie zur Arbeit.

Although she didn't feel well, she went to work.

Reflexive pronoun 'sich' stays near the subject; verb 'fühlte' at the end.

3

Wir haben das Haus gekauft, obgleich es renovierungsbedürftig ist.

We bought the house, although it is in need of renovation.

Formal vocabulary 'renovierungsbedürftig' pairs well with 'obgleich'.

4

Obgleich der Film sehr lange dauerte, war er keine Sekunde langweilig.

Although the film lasted a very long time, it wasn't boring for a second.

Verb-comma-verb structure: 'dauerte, war'.

5

Sie hat die Prüfung bestanden, obgleich sie große Prüfungsangst hat.

She passed the exam, although she has severe test anxiety.

Contrasting a positive outcome with a negative condition.

6

Obgleich es draußen stürmte, war es im Haus gemütlich und warm.

Although it was storming outside, it was cozy and warm in the house.

Descriptive B1 sentence structure.

7

Ich habe ihm verziehen, obgleich er sich nicht entschuldigt hat.

I forgave him, although he didn't apologize.

Perfect tense in the subordinate clause: auxiliary 'hat' at the very end.

8

Obgleich wir uns beeilt haben, haben wir den Bus verpasst.

Although we hurried, we missed the bus.

Double perfect tense structure.

1

Die Firma verzeichnete Rekordgewinne, obgleich die wirtschaftliche Lage insgesamt angespannt war.

The company recorded record profits, although the overall economic situation was tense.

Formal business context suitable for B2.

2

Obgleich die Verhandlungen schwierig verliefen, konnte letztendlich ein Kompromiss erzielt werden.

Although the negotiations were difficult, a compromise could ultimately be reached.

Passive voice with modal verb in the main clause.

3

Der Autor ist international bekannt, obgleich sein letztes Buch von den Kritikern verrissen wurde.

The author is internationally known, although his last book was torn apart by critics.

Passive voice in the subordinate clause ('verrissen wurde').

4

Obgleich sie über hervorragende Qualifikationen verfügt, wurde sie für die Stelle nicht berücksichtigt.

Although she has excellent qualifications, she was not considered for the position.

Advanced vocabulary ('verfügen über', 'berücksichtigen').

5

Das Projekt wurde fristgerecht abgeschlossen, obgleich es anfangs erhebliche personelle Engpässe gab.

The project was completed on time, although there were significant personnel shortages initially.

Use of 'es gab' in a subordinate clause.

6

Obgleich der Klimawandel eine globale Bedrohung darstellt, handeln viele Regierungen zu zögerlich.

Although climate change represents a global threat, many governments act too hesitantly.

Complex sentence discussing a global issue.

7

Er behielt in der Krisensituation einen kühlen Kopf, obgleich er innerlich sehr nervös war.

He kept a cool head in the crisis situation, although he was very nervous internally.

Idiomatic expression ('einen kühlen Kopf bewahren').

8

Obgleich die Beweislage erdrückend schien, plädierte der Anwalt auf Freispruch.

Although the evidence seemed overwhelming, the lawyer pleaded for an acquittal.

Legal terminology and formal register.

1

Obgleich die empirischen Daten eine andere Sprache sprechen, hält der Professor an seiner veralteten Theorie fest.

Although the empirical data speak a different language, the professor clings to his outdated theory.

Academic register with metaphorical language ('eine andere Sprache sprechen').

2

Die Reform wurde im Parlament verabschiedet, obgleich sich im Vorfeld massiver gesellschaftlicher Widerstand formiert hatte.

The reform was passed in parliament, although massive social resistance had formed beforehand.

Pluperfect tense in the subordinate clause indicating prior action.

3

Obgleich es ihm an formaler Bildung mangelte, avancierte er zu einem der einflussreichsten Denker seiner Zeit.

Although he lacked formal education, he advanced to become one of the most influential thinkers of his time.

Elevated vocabulary ('mangeln an', 'avancieren').

4

Das Kunstwerk fasziniert den Betrachter, obgleich sich seine tiefere Bedeutung erst bei genauerer Analyse erschließt.

The artwork fascinates the observer, although its deeper meaning only reveals itself upon closer analysis.

Reflexive verb usage in a highly formal context.

5

Obgleich die Maßnahme aus ökonomischer Sicht sinnvoll erscheint, birgt sie erhebliche soziale Sprengkraft.

Although the measure seems sensible from an economic perspective, it harbors significant social explosive power.

Abstract concepts and advanced phrasing ('Sprengkraft bergen').

6

Er pflegte einen luxuriösen Lebensstil, obgleich er de facto längst bankrott war.

He maintained a luxurious lifestyle, although he was de facto bankrupt long ago.

Integration of Latin loanwords ('de facto').

7

Obgleich die Verhandlungen kurz vor dem Scheitern standen, gelang in letzter Minute ein diplomatischer Durchbruch.

Although the negotiations were on the verge of failure, a diplomatic breakthrough succeeded at the last minute.

Complex prepositional phrases within the clause.

8

Die Architektur des Gebäudes wirkt modern, obgleich sie sich stark an klassischen Vorbildern orientiert.

The architecture of the building appears modern, although it is strongly oriented towards classical models.

Nuanced description using reflexive verbs.

1

Obgleich die Kritik an seinem Lebenswerk in den letzten Jahren lauter wurde, bleibt sein Einfluss auf die zeitgenössische Literatur unbestritten.

Although criticism of his life's work has grown louder in recent years, his influence on contemporary literature remains undisputed.

Highly complex sentence structure balancing multiple abstract concepts.

2

Das Orchester spielte mit einer atemberaubenden Präzision, obgleich die Partitur den Musikern das Äußerste abverlangte.

The orchestra played with breathtaking precision, although the score demanded the utmost from the musicians.

Literary and highly descriptive vocabulary ('das Äußerste abverlangen').

3

Obgleich er sich der Tragweite seiner Entscheidung vollauf bewusst war, zögerte er keinen Augenblick, das Dokument zu unterzeichnen.

Although he was fully aware of the magnitude of his decision, he did not hesitate for a moment to sign the document.

Genitive object with 'bewusst sein' in a concessive clause.

4

Die landschaftliche Schönheit der Region ist überwältigend, obgleich die rauen klimatischen Bedingungen den Bewohnern ein hartes Leben diktieren.

The scenic beauty of the region is overwhelming, although the harsh climatic conditions dictate a hard life for the inhabitants.

Poetic and highly elevated descriptive prose.

5

Obgleich die philosophische Prämisse des Buches durchaus angreifbar ist, besticht es durch seine stilistische Brillanz.

Although the philosophical premise of the book is certainly vulnerable to attack, it captivates through its stylistic brilliance.

Academic critique terminology ('angreifbar', 'bestechen durch').

6

Er bewahrte stets eine aristokratische Contenance, obgleich sein inneres emotionales Gleichgewicht längst ins Wanken geraten war.

He always maintained an aristocratic composure, although his inner emotional balance had long since begun to falter.

Use of highly sophisticated loanwords ('Contenance') and metaphors.

7

Obgleich die historischen Quellen spärlich fließen, lässt sich ein faszinierendes Bild jener Epoche rekonstruieren.

Although the historical sources flow sparsely, a fascinating picture of that epoch can be reconstructed.

Metaphorical use of verbs ('Quellen fließen').

8

Das Gesetz passierte beide Kammern, obgleich namhafte Juristen im Vorfeld gravierende verfassungsrechtliche Bedenken angemeldet hatten.

The law passed both chambers, although renowned jurists had registered grave constitutional concerns beforehand.

Complex legal and political terminology.

常见搭配

obgleich es scheint
obgleich er wusste
obgleich sie versuchte
obgleich viele glauben
obgleich die Tatsache
obgleich es schwerfällt
obgleich nicht immer
obgleich oft behauptet
obgleich zugeben muss
obgleich offensichtlich

容易混淆的词

obgleich vs obwohl (synonym, but different register)

obgleich vs trotzdem (adverb, different word order)

obgleich vs trotz (preposition, requires a noun, not a clause)

容易混淆

obgleich vs

obgleich vs

obgleich vs

obgleich vs

obgleich vs

句型

如何使用

note

While grammatically identical to 'obwohl', 'obgleich' carries a distinct stylistic weight. It is a marker of educated, formal German. Overusing it in spoken language can make you sound unnatural, but underusing it in written language can make your texts seem basic.

常见错误
  • Leaving the verb in the second position instead of moving it to the end of the clause.
  • Forgetting to invert the subject and verb in the main clause when the 'obgleich' clause comes first.
  • Omitting the mandatory comma between the two clauses.
  • Using 'obgleich' as a preposition followed by a noun (like 'trotz') instead of a full clause.
  • Confusing it with 'trotzdem' and using adverbial word order.

小贴士

Verb at the End

Always place the conjugated verb at the very end of the 'obgleich' clause. This is the most important rule.

Don't Forget the Comma

A comma is mandatory between the main clause and the subordinate clause. Never skip it.

Verb-Comma-Verb

If you start the sentence with 'Obgleich...', the main clause must start with a verb right after the comma.

Upgrade Your Writing

Use 'obgleich' instead of 'obwohl' in your formal essays and emails to sound more professional.

Stick to Obwohl in Chat

When chatting with friends, use 'obwohl'. 'Obgleich' sounds too stiff for casual conversation.

Not Trotzdem

Remember that 'obgleich' (although) and 'trotzdem' (nevertheless) require completely different sentence structures.

Notice the Flow

When reading German literature, notice how authors use 'obgleich' to create a smoother rhythm in long sentences.

Write Contrasts

Practice by writing pairs of contrasting sentences. 'It is cold. I am not wearing a jacket.' Then combine them.

B1/B2 Zertifikat

Memorize this word for your B1 or B2 writing exams. It is a classic 'points-winner' if used correctly.

Don't Translate Literally

Don't try to translate 'ob' and 'gleich' separately. Treat it as one solid block meaning 'although'.

记住它

记忆技巧

Think of 'ob' (if) and 'gleich' (equal). 'Even IF things are EQUAL, something else happens.' It contrasts two things.

词源

Middle High German

文化背景

High. Used primarily in written German, news, and formal speech.

Universally understood, but slightly more common in standard High German (Hochdeutsch) writing than in regional dialects, which often prefer 'obwohl' or local variants.

在生活中练习

真实语境

对话开场白

"Obgleich das Wetter heute schlecht ist, was hast du geplant?"

"Was ist dein Lieblingsfilm, obgleich er vielleicht schlechte Kritiken hat?"

"Gibt es ein Essen, das du magst, obgleich es ungesund ist?"

"Welches Hobby machst du weiter, obgleich es viel Zeit kostet?"

"Was hast du gekauft, obgleich es eigentlich zu teuer war?"

日记主题

Beschreibe eine Situation, in der du erfolgreich warst, obgleich die Umstände schwierig waren.

Schreibe über eine Person, die du bewunderst, obgleich sie Fehler hat.

Notiere ein Ziel, das du verfolgst, obgleich es sehr lange dauern wird.

Erzähle von einem Tag, der schön war, obgleich alles schiefging.

Reflektiere über eine Meinung, die du vertrittst, obgleich viele andere dagegen sind.

常见问题

10 个问题

Yes, in terms of meaning and grammar, they are identical. Both mean 'although' and both force the verb to the end of the clause. The only difference is the register: 'obgleich' is more formal and used mostly in writing, while 'obwohl' is used everywhere.

Absolutely. Starting a sentence with a subordinate clause is very common in German. Just remember that if you do this, the main clause that follows the comma must start with its verb. For example: 'Obgleich es regnet, gehe ich spazieren.'

Yes. German punctuation rules are strict. A subordinate clause introduced by 'obgleich' must always be separated from the main clause by a comma, regardless of whether it comes first or second in the sentence.

Because 'obgleich' is a subordinating conjunction. In German grammar, subordinating conjunctions create dependent clauses, and the defining feature of a dependent clause is that the conjugated verb is pushed to the final position.

You can, but it might sound a bit overly formal or stiff in casual situations, like talking with friends. In spoken German, 'obwohl' is almost always preferred. Save 'obgleich' for formal speeches, interviews, or writing.

'Obgleich' is a conjunction ('although') and sends the verb to the end. 'Trotzdem' is an adverb ('nevertheless') and usually starts a new main clause, followed immediately by the verb. 'Er ist krank, obgleich er arbeitet' vs 'Er ist krank. Trotzdem arbeitet er.'

Etymologically, yes. It comes from combining 'ob' (if) and 'gleich' (equal/even). However, in modern German, you shouldn't try to translate it literally. Just treat it as a single word meaning 'although'.

If you have a modal verb and a main verb in the perfect tense (e.g., 'hätte machen können'), the conjugated auxiliary verb ('hätte') usually comes before the two infinitives at the end of the clause. This is an advanced rule known as the double infinitive rule.

Yes. The hierarchy of formality generally goes: obwohl (standard) -> obgleich (formal) -> wenngleich (highly formal/literary).

Not necessarily, but using 'obgleich' correctly in the writing section shows the examiner that you have a wider vocabulary and a good grasp of formal register, which can definitely help boost your score.

自我测试 150 个问题

/ 150 correct

Perfect score!

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