sofern
Translation
provided that, if, as long as
Examples
Ich komme, sofern ich Zeit habe.
I'll come, provided I have time.
Sofern keine Fragen sind, beenden wir die Sitzung.
If there are no questions, we will end the meeting.
Grammar Patterns
((sofern)) + subordinate clause Introduces a conditional clause. The verb goes to the end. Sofern das Wetter gut ist, machen wir einen Ausflug.
Similar Words
Synonyms: falls, wenn, vorausgesetzt
Etymology
A combination of 'so' (so, thus) and 'fern' (far). Literally means 'insofar as'.
Memory Tips
Think of it as a more formal version of 'wenn' (if). It sets a condition: 'so far as X is true, then Y'.