The Magic Formula for W-Fragen
Word order in German questions is strict and consistent, which applies to everyday situations like self-introductions and personal details. Always keep this visual structure in mind:
W-Frage + Verb (Pos. 2) + Subjekt + Rest ?
1. The Word Wer (Who) - For Persons
Used when asking about someone's identity. The expected answer is always a person's name or personal pronoun, which is very useful when discussing family affairs and relatives.
Wer bist du?
Who are you?
Ich bin Ahmed. (I am Ahmed)
Wer kommt heute?
Who is coming today?
Der Lehrer kommt. (The teacher is coming)
2. The Word Was (What) - For Non-Persons
When asking about an object, idea, activity, or an action requiring correct verb conjugation, Was is your primary choice. You can also practice interactively with educational games and apps to reinforce this concept.
Was machst du?
What are you doing?
Ich lerne Deutsch. (I am learning German)
Was ist das?
What is this?
Das ist ein Buch. (This is a book)
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3. The Word Wann (When) - For Time
Used to request information regarding time, appointments, hours, days, or timeframes. This is essential when writing appointment cancellation letters. For more on reading time, review the A1.1 Numbers and Time lesson.
Wann beginnt der Kurs?
When does the course start?
Um 9:00 Uhr. (At 9 o'clock)
Wann kommst du?
When are you coming?
Morgen. (Tomorrow)
4. The Word Warum (Why) - For Reasons
Used to inquire about reasons or justifications behind an event. Answers typically begin with a causal conjunction like Weil (because), which becomes crucial when submitting a cover letter for vocational training (Ausbildung) or jobs.
Warum lernst du Deutsch?
Why are you learning German?
Weil ich in Deutschland arbeiten möchte.
