Der Arzt ist hier, aber wir müssen lange warten.
The doctor is here, but we have to wait a long time.
Questions & Answers about Der Arzt ist hier, aber wir müssen lange warten.
Why is the verb warten at the very end of the sentence?
This is the main rule for modal verbs! When you use a modal verb like müssen (must / have to), it takes the normal second position in the sentence. It then pushes the main action verb (warten) all the way to the end in its original dictionary form (the infinitive).
Does müssen translate to "must" or "have to"?
It translates to both! In English, we usually say "have to" in normal conversation because "must" can sound a bit formal or strict. German simply uses müssen for any kind of obligation or necessity.
Why is wir right after aber? Doesn't the verb usually come second?
The word aber (but) is a connecting word that counts as "position zero." It doesn't take up the first slot in the sentence's word order. Because of this, wir is in position 1, and the verb müssen stays in its normal spot in position 2.
Why is it lange and not just lang?
When talking about a duration of time (how long you have to wait), German uses the time adverb lange. You use lang when describing the physical length of an object, like a long scarf or a long road.