Adding a Qualification: wobei
When discussing compromises—like negotiating an apartment lease—you often need to qualify a statement, add a restriction, or point out a drawback. You can do this using the relative connector wobei ("whereby" or "recognizing that").
Just like other relative connectors, wobei refers back to the entire situation described in the main clause. Because it introduces a subordinate clause, it must follow a comma and sends the conjugated verb to the very end of its clause.
| The location of the apartment is fantastic, whereby that can also be a disadvantage. | Die Lage der Wohnung ist fantastisch, wobei das auch ein Nachteil sein kann. |
| The viewing was interesting, recognizing that I did not find the location good. | Die Besichtigung war interessant, wobei ich die Lage nicht gut fand. |
Notice how the first half of the sentence makes a positive or neutral statement, and the wobei clause introduces a slight limitation or a related issue.
Because it is perfect for weighing pros and cons, you will hear wobei constantly when discussing contracts, housing, and financial compromises.
| We are accepting the compromise, whereby the utility costs will unfortunately rise. | Wir akzeptieren den Kompromiss, wobei die Nebenkosten leider steigen werden. |
| We had to pay the real estate agent, recognizing that the security deposit was also very high. | Wir mussten den Makler bezahlen, wobei die Kaution auch sehr hoch war. |