As a language expert with a deep understanding of grammar, I can provide a comprehensive answer to your question regarding the use of "als" in the context of German grammar. It's important to distinguish between the different grammatical roles a word can play, as it can significantly affect the meaning of a sentence.
"Als" is a versatile word in the German language and can serve multiple functions, which is why it's sometimes a source of confusion for learners. Let's explore its roles and how it can be identified in each context.

### Subordinating Conjunction

A subordinating conjunction is a word that connects a dependent clause to an independent clause. In German, "als" can indeed function as a subordinating conjunction, particularly when it is used to introduce a time clause. For example:

- Er kam, als ich das Haus verließ. (He arrived as I was leaving the house.)

In this sentence, "als" connects the dependent clause "als ich das Haus verließ" (as I was leaving the house) to the independent clause "Er kam" (He arrived), indicating the time at which the action of the main clause occurred.

### Prepositions

"Als" can also be used as a preposition, which is where it might be confused with its role as a subordinating conjunction. When used as a preposition, "als" typically means "as" or "like" and is used to indicate a role, function, or comparison. For example:

- Er arbeitet als Arzt. (He works as a doctor.)

Here, "als" is not connecting clauses but is instead describing the role or function of the subject within the sentence.

### Comparisons

As you mentioned, "als" is also used in comparisons, where it translates to "than" in English. In this case, it is not functioning as a subordinating conjunction but as part of a comparative structure. For example:

- Er ist größer als ich. (He is taller than I am.)

Here, "als" is used to make a comparison between two subjects, indicating that one is greater in some quality than the other.

### Distinguishing "als" in Context

To determine whether "als" is being used as a subordinating conjunction, a preposition, or in a comparison, it's crucial to look at the structure of the sentence and the role "als" is playing within it. As a subordinating conjunction, it will be introducing a clause that depends on the main clause for its meaning. As a preposition, it will be followed by a noun or pronoun that it is relating to the rest of the sentence. In comparisons, it will be part of a structure that includes an adjective or adverb in the comparative form.

### Conclusion

In conclusion, "als" can be a subordinating conjunction when it introduces a dependent clause that provides additional information about the time of an action in the main clause. It is not a subordinating conjunction when it is used as a preposition to indicate a role or function, or when it is part of a comparative structure. Understanding the context in which "als" appears is key to identifying its grammatical function accurately.

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Some of the subordinating conjunctions can be confused with their second identity as prepositions (bis, seit, w?hrend), but this is usually not a big problem. The word als is also used in comparisons (gr??er als, bigger than), in which case it is not a subordinating conjunction.read more >>