denn

Denn is a German word used as a coordinating conjunction and, less commonly, as a sentence adverb. As a coordinating conjunction, denn connects two main clauses and expresses a reason or justification. It is roughly equivalent to “because” or the somewhat formal/archaic “for” in English. Unlike the subordinating conjunction weil, denn does not introduce a subordinate clause; the following clause remains a normal main clause with the finite verb in its usual second position.

In addition to its causal use, denn also functions as a sentence adverb to add emphasis, seek clarification, or soften a statement in spoken German. It is common in everyday speech and informal writing. Its presence can shift tone, for example turning a neutral question into a more insistently curious one.

Origin and usage notes: Denn has roots in the early Germanic language family and has parallels in other West Germanic languages. In modern German, it remains a versatile particle that complements weil and da in indicating cause and emphasis. In formal writing, weil or da is often preferred for a clear causal relationship; denn tends to appear more in speech and informal contexts.

Translations and equivalents: As a conjunction, denn is often rendered as “because” or “for.” As a sentence adverb, it functions as an intensifier or a marker of curiosity in questions: Was hast du denn gemacht? (“What exactly did you do?”) or Es ist kalt, denn die Fenster sind geöffnet.