Konjunktion falls
B1 · Intermediate · Advanced Structures
The rule
falls = in case.
How it works
Falls (in case, if) introduces a clause about a possible situation, usually one that might happen. It is common in instructions, rules and everyday planning. The verb goes to the end. Falls is less hypothetical than wenn, and it often refers to a specific possibility that you want to prepare for.
When to use it
Use falls (in case / if) for a possible condition, with the verb at the end.
Use cases
- Giving advice for a possible situation: Falls du Hilfe brauchst, ruf mich an
- Planning for a risk: Falls es regnet, bleiben wir drinnen
- Writing instructions: Falls das Problem bleibt, kontaktieren Sie uns
Examples
- Falls du Zeit hast, ruf an – If you have time, call
- Falls der Zug ausfällt, nehmen wir den Bus. – If the train is cancelled, we will take the bus.
- Falls Sie Fragen haben, schreiben Sie mir. – If you have questions, write to me.
- Falls du noch etwas brauchst, sag Bescheid. – If you need anything else, let me know.
Common mistake
Using falls for a general "whenever". Falls means "in case" and refers to one specific possibility.
Memory tip
Falls = in case: "Falls du Hilfe brauchst, ruf mich an."
Read the wider picture in our guide: German Verbs and Word Order: Tenses, Modals and Sentence Structure.