die Nebensache
side issue
A matter, detail, or aspect that is unimportant or of lesser significance compared with other things.
EXAMPLE
Das Geld ist bei dieser Entscheidung nur eine Nebensache.
Money is only a side issue in this decision.
die Nebensache
side issue
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Meanings
Usage tips
Compound word
The word is made up of the preposition 'neben' (beside/next to) and the noun 'die Sache' (thing/matter). So it literally describes a 'thing that lies beside it' and is therefore less important.
EXAMPLE
Für ihn ist Pünktlichkeit die Hauptsache, alles andere ist Nebensache.
For him, punctuality is the main thing; everything else is a side issue.
Sentence structure and usage
'Nebensache' (side issue) is very often used as a predicate noun with the verbs 'sein' (to be) or 'werden' (to become). The pattern is: [something] is/becomes (only) a side issue.
EXAMPLE
Als sie die gute Nachricht hörte, wurden alle ihre Sorgen zur Nebensache.
When she heard the good news, all her worries became a side issue.
Typical expression
The expressions 'zur Nebensache werden' (to become a side issue) or 'zur Nebensache machen' (to make something a side issue) are very common. They express that something loses importance because something else comes to the foreground.
EXAMPLE
Angesichts der ernsten Lage wurde der Streit über Kleinigkeiten schnell zur Nebensache.
Given the serious situation, the argument about small things quickly became a side issue.
Compare with
Nebensache vs Detail
detail
Both words can refer to a subordinate aspect of a larger topic. “Das Detail” mainly describes something as a small part, while “die Nebensache” also indicates that this part is less important. Use “Detail” neutrally and “Nebensache” when its limited importance is being emphasized.
Nebensache
Ob der Raum blau oder weiß ist, bleibt bei dieser Entscheidung eine Nebensache.
Whether the room is blue or white is a side issue in this decision.
Detail
Das kleine Detail im Vertrag müssen wir vor der Unterschrift noch prüfen.
We still need to check the small detail in the contract before signing it.
In real life
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