ker / zato
Reason and Result
Ker introduces a reason clause, while zato introduces a result or conclusion.
How It Works
Ker introduces a reason clause, while zato introduces a result or conclusion. Clauses introduced by ker are separated by a comma in standard writing.
Reversing the order of clauses does not reverse the logic: Ker dežuje, ostanem doma still gives rain as the reason. Zato instead points back to a cause already expressed or understood. Standard writing separates the connected clauses with punctuation.
Examples (3)
- Doma sem, ker dežuje.
I am at home because it is raining.
- Dežuje, zato sem doma.
It is raining, so I am at home.
- Ker nimam časa, ne pridem.
Because I have no time, I am not coming.
How It Connects
Learn This First
Connect complete propositions before distinguishing cause from result.
Learn Next
Patterns that build on this one.
Words in This Pattern
ker