German Phrase
Dann schaue ich fern.
Meaning
This sentence indicates a sequential action where the speaker plans to watch television after a previous event. It showcases the use of the separable verb 'fernsehen' and the grammatical rule of inversion triggered by starting with an adverb.
When to use
Use this phrase when describing your daily routine or explaining your plans for the evening to friends or family. It is perfect for transitioning between different activities in a story or conversation.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Dannschaueichfern
Inversion
When a sentence starts with an adverb like 'dann', the verb moves to the second position and the subject moves to the third.
Separable Verbs
The verb 'fernsehen' is separable. The base 'sehe' or 'schaue' is conjugated, while the prefix 'fern' is placed at the very end.
🗨In Conversation
Was machst du nach dem Abendessen?
What are you doing after dinner?
Dann schaue ich fern.
Then I watch TV.
✕Common Mistakes
Dann ich schaue fern.
In German, the verb must be the second element. When 'dann' starts the sentence, the verb 'schaue' must come before the subject 'ich'.
Dann schaue ich fernsehen.
For separable verbs like 'fernsehen', the prefix 'fern' must move to the end of the clause in a simple present tense sentence.
↔Alternatives
Danach sehe ich fern.
After that I watch TV.
Später gucke ich fern.
Later I'll watch TV (colloquial).
Cultural Tip
Television remains a major part of German evening culture, especially the 'Tatort' crime series on Sunday nights. While 'schauen' is common in the south and Austria, you will often hear 'gucken' used in northern and central Germany.