conjunction
if, in case
B1
'falls' is a subordinating conjunction meaning 'if' or 'in case'. It introduces a subordinate clause, sending the conjugated verb to the clause-final position. Use it for conditional or precautionary situations ('in case'). Unlike 'wenn', it often emphasizes contingency; word order change is mandatory. Avoid confusion with 'ob'.
Examples
Falls es regnet, bleiben wir zu Hause.
If it rains, we'll stay at home.
Nimm einen Regenschirm, falls du nass wirst.
Take an umbrella in case you get wet.
Die Techniker überprüften das System, falls ein Fehler gemeldet wurde, sodass später keine Störung auftauchte.
The technicians checked the system in case a fault was reported, so that no disruption arose later.
Details
Mnemonics
sounds like English 'falls' — imagine raindrops falling to remember conditional 'if it falls (rains)'
Notes
A subordinating conjunction that introduces a condition; it sends the conjugated verb to the end of the clause.