nachdem
after
Introduces a subordinate clause describing an action or event that takes place before the action in the main clause.
EXAMPLE
Nachdem ich gegessen hatte, ging ich spazieren.
After I had eaten, I went for a walk.
nachdem
after
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Meanings
Usage tips
Verb at the end
'Nachdem' (after) introduces a subordinate clause, so the conjugated verb goes at the end of that clause. The subordinate clause is separated from the main clause by a comma.
EXAMPLE
Nachdem sie den Bericht gelesen hatte, beantwortete sie die Fragen.
After she had read the report, she answered the questions.
Verb tenses
The earlier action after 'nachdem' (after) is often in the past perfect (Plusquamperfekt), while the later action is in the simple past (Präteritum) or present perfect (Perfekt). This makes the sequence of events especially clear.
EXAMPLE
Nachdem der Zug abgefahren war, bemerkte ich meinen vergessenen Rucksack.
After the train had departed, I realized I had forgotten my backpack.
Clause position
The subordinate clause introduced by 'nachdem' (after) can come before or after the main clause. If it comes first, the conjugated verb of the main clause follows immediately after the comma.
EXAMPLE
Nachdem die Gäste gegangen waren, räumte die Familie die Küche auf.
After the guests had left, the family tidied up the kitchen.
Die Familie räumte die Küche auf, nachdem die Gäste gegangen waren.
The family tidied up the kitchen after the guests had left.
In real life
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