German word

trotzdem

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈtʁɔt͡sdeːm/

Meaning

  • adverbstill

Example

Ich habe keine Zeit, trotzdem komme ich.

I have no time, but I'm still coming.

Illustration for trotzdem (still)

More examples

Der Weg ist kompliziert, trotzdem frage ich nach dem Weg.

The route is complicated, but I still ask for directions.

Core concept

A barrier remains in view while the same outcome moves ahead.

Common phrases

  • trotzdem fragen

    still ask

  • trotzdem lachen

    still laugh

Similar words

dennoch: Shows that an unexpected result follows despite the circumstances.
jedoch: Marks a contrast or limitation related to something stated earlier.
allerdings: Acknowledges a fact while adding a qualification or condition.

Definition in German

Trotzdem drückt aus, dass etwas trotz eines Hindernisses oder Einwands weiterhin zutrifft.

Word origin

Trotzdem developed from the phrase trotz dem, meaning 'despite that', with dem becoming fused into the modern adverb.

Usage tips

  • When trotzdem begins a main clause, the finite verb follows it before the subject, as in Trotzdem komme ich; obwohl instead introduces a subordinate clause with the verb at the end.

Other meanings

  • neverthelessadverb

Word lists with this word