wann
when
Used as a question word to ask about the point in time or duration of something.
EXAMPLE
Wann kommt der nächste Bus nach Berlin?
When does the next bus to Berlin arrive?
wann
when
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
wann
when
Used as a conjunction to introduce a subordinate clause that expresses an indirect question about a time.
EXAMPLE
Ich weiß noch nicht, wann ich morgen Zeit habe.
I don't know yet when I'll have time tomorrow.
dann und wann
now and then
A fixed expression that means 'sometimes' or 'occasionally'.
EXAMPLE
Wir treffen uns nur noch dann und wann auf einen Kaffee.
We only meet now and then for a coffee.
Usage tips
Word order
The position of the verb changes depending on the function of 'wann' (when). In a direct question, the conjugated verb is in position 2. If 'wann' introduces a subordinate clause, the conjugated verb comes at the end of the clause.
EXAMPLE
Wann fängt der Film an?
When does the film start?
Typical questions
'Wann' (when) is often used in typical everyday questions to ask about start and end points or schedules. Examples include 'Wann beginnt...?' (When does ... begin?), 'Wann hat ... geöffnet?' (When is ... open?), or 'Wann fährt ... ab?' (When does ... depart?).
EXAMPLE
Wann hat der Supermarkt geöffnet?
When is the supermarket open?
Fixed expression
The expression 'dann und wann' means 'sometimes' or 'occasionally'. It is often used to describe an irregular but recurring action.
EXAMPLE
Wir gehen nur dann und wann ins Kino.
We only go to the movies now and then.
Compare with
wann vs wenn
if / when
Both words can refer to a future event. „Wenn“ introduces a temporal prerequisite or condition, while „wann“ asks about the time in an indirect question. Use „wenn“ for the prerequisite and „wann“ when the time is still unknown.
wann
Wir wissen noch nicht, wann der Zug morgen ankommt.
We don’t know yet when the train will arrive tomorrow.
wenn
Wenn der Zug morgen ankommt, holen wir dich am Bahnhof ab.
If the train arrives tomorrow, we’ll pick you up at the station.
In real life
Loading video examples...