wobei
what ... with
An interrogative word meaning “with what” or “in what matter.” It asks what someone is occupied with or needs help with.
EXAMPLE
Wobei kann ich Ihnen helfen?
What can I help you with?
wobei
what ... with / while
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
wobei
while
Introduces a subordinate clause describing an action taking place at the same time or an accompanying circumstance.
EXAMPLE
Er schloss die Tür, wobei er den Schlüssel im Schloss stecken ließ.
He closed the door, leaving the key in the lock.
wobei
although / however
Introduces a restrictive or supplementary comment and then means something like “although” or “however.”
EXAMPLE
Der Plan klingt gut, wobei die Kosten noch unklar sind.
The plan sounds good, although the costs are still unclear.
Usage tips
Word formation
‘Wobei’ is made up of ‘wo’ (where/what) and ‘bei’ (with/at). In questions, ‘wo’ refers to a thing, an activity, or a matter, rather than only to a place.
EXAMPLE
Wobei hast du dir den Arm gebrochen? – Beim Skifahren.
What were you doing when you broke your arm? – Skiing.
Word order
As an interrogative word, ‘wobei’ often appears at the beginning of a direct question; the finite verb follows it. When it introduces a subordinate clause, the finite verb comes at the end.
EXAMPLE
Wobei hat er dich denn gestört?
What were you doing when he disturbed you?
Sie arbeitete weiter, wobei sie ständig telefonierte.
She continued working while constantly talking on the phone.
Context clue
After a comma, ‘wobei’ usually introduces an additional comment. The following subordinate clause can either describe an action taking place at the same time or mention a restriction or reservation; the context indicates the precise meaning.
EXAMPLE
Er ging langsam nach Hause, wobei er mehrere Pausen machte.
He walked home slowly, taking several breaks along the way.
Die Idee ist interessant, wobei die Umsetzung schwierig sein dürfte.
The idea is interesting, although putting it into practice is likely to be difficult.
In real life
Loading video examples...