conjunction
although, even though
B1
obwohl: subordinating conjunction meaning although or even though. Introduces a subordinate clause where the finite verb moves to the end (e.g. Ich bleibe, obwohl es regnet). Requires a comma before the clause. Used to contrast facts with expectations. Very common in spoken and written German.
Examples
Ich habe die Prüfung bestanden, obwohl ich kaum gelernt hatte.
I passed the exam even though I had hardly studied.
Obwohl es regnet, gehen wir spazieren.
Although it's raining, we're going for a walk.
Der Zug fuhr verspätet, obwohl das Personal schon früh am Bahnhof eingetroffen war.
The train departed late, although the staff had arrived at the station early.
Details
Mnemonics
Imagine two sentences joined by a small bridge labeled 'obwohl' connecting contrasting ideas.
Sounds like 'ob-wohl' — remember 'ob' (if) + 'wohl' (well) to mean 'even if/well that...'.
Notes
'obwohl' is a subordinating conjunction and sends the conjugated verb to the end of the clause. It introduces contrast and is very common in both spoken and written German.