Introduction

Asking questions is one of the most critical aspects of communication, and German has a set of essential question words that every beginner should master. Common question words include:

• Wie (How)
• Was (What)
• Wo (Where)
• Others: Wer (Who), Wann (When), Warum (Why)

Common Question Words

1. Wie (How)

Wie is used to ask about the manner or way something happens. Examples:

• Wie heißt du? (What is your name?)
• Wie alt bist du? (How old are you?)

2. Was (What)

Was is used to inquire about objects, activities, or abstract concepts. Examples:

• Was machst du? (What are you doing?)
• Was ist das? (What is that?)

3. Wo (Where)

Wo is used to ask about a location. Examples:

• Wo wohnst du? (Where do you live?)
• Wo ist der Bahnhof? (Where is the train station?)

Forming Questions

German questions typically start with the question word followed by the verb and the subject:
Question Word + Verb + Subject
Example: Wo arbeitest du? (Where do you work?)

Conclusion

Mastering question words will help you navigate everyday conversations in German. Practice using these words in different contexts to build confidence and fluency.