Breakdown of Handys sind strengstens verboten, außer wenn der Moderator es erlaubt.
sein
to be
es
it
das Handy
the cellphone
verbieten
to forbid
erlauben
to allow
der Moderator
the presenter, the host (of a show)
außer wenn
unless
strengstens
strictly
Questions & Answers about Handys sind strengstens verboten, außer wenn der Moderator es erlaubt.
How do I know whether to use außer wenn or außer dass?
Use außer wenn for conditions (meaning "unless" or "except if"). Use außer dass to state a factual exception (meaning "except that"). Here, the host allowing phones is a condition, so außer wenn is the right choice.
Why is the verb erlaubt at the very end of the sentence?
The phrase außer wenn acts as a subordinating conjunction. Just like weil or dass, it sends the conjugated verb (erlaubt) to the end of its clause.
Why does streng have an -stens ending here?
The -stens suffix turns the adjective into an absolute superlative adverb, meaning "to the absolute highest degree." The phrase strengstens verboten is a very common fixed expression for "strictly forbidden."
Does Moderator only refer to an internet forum moderator?
No, it is actually much broader. In German, a Moderator is the standard word for a TV or radio host, a presenter, or an event facilitator.
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