Deutsch · A1 · grammar · 4 minutes
Questions with and without a question word
Put the finite verb first in yes/no questions and second after a W-question word.
Understand the choice
German does not add an equivalent of English do. The existing finite verb moves before the subject, while any infinitive or separable prefix keeps its normal final position.
Core rule: A W-question begins with its question word then the finite verb; a yes/no question begins directly with the finite verb.
Notice it in context
Wo wohnst du, und sprichst du auch Englisch?
Where do you live, and do you also speak English?
Wo occupies first position before wohnst; sprichst begins the yes/no question.
Wann beginnt der Film?
When does the film begin?
Wann is followed immediately by finite beginnt.
Kann deine Schwester morgen mitkommen?
Can your sister come along tomorrow?
Modal kann begins the yes/no question; mitkommen remains final.
What to remember
- Wer as subject is followed by a third-person singular verb: Wer kommt?
- Wie viel asks an amount; wie viele asks a countable plural.
Common trap: Do not add tun to imitate English do-support. Say Wohnst du hier?