Use the subordinating conjunction selbst wenn (even if) to express extreme conditions that don't change the outcome of a situation.
Like all subordinating conjunctions, selbst wenn sends the conjugated verb to the very end of its clause:
| The geologist often goes to the crater, even if it is dangerous. | Der Geologe geht oft zum Krater, selbst wenn es gefährlich ist. |
| The eruption is an unstoppable force of nature, even if we are prepared. | Der Ausbruch ist eine unaufhaltsame Naturgewalt, selbst wenn wir vorbereitet sind. |
Starting with "selbst wenn"
You can emphasize the extreme condition by starting the sentence with the selbst wenn clause.
When a dependent clause comes first, it occupies the first position in the sentence. To satisfy the V2 (verb-second) rule, the main clause must immediately follow the comma with its own conjugated verb, creating a "verb, comma, verb" pattern:
| Even if the crater is quiet now, the volcano can erupt. | Selbst wenn der Krater jetzt ruhig ist, kann der Vulkan ausbrechen. |
| Even if the lava is unstoppable, we can evacuate the city. | Selbst wenn die Lava unaufhaltsam ist, können wir die Stadt evakuieren. |
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