GermanSentence

A1 Word order

Yes-No Questions

Ja-Nein-Fragen

A question expecting yes or no puts the finite verb first and the subject immediately after it. Nothing else moves.

Sentences that use it(4 of 4)

Real sentences from the lexicon. The marked words are what show the rule.

  • central to this sentence B2

    Tut die Regierung genug für den sozialen Ausgleich?

    Is the government doing enough for social cohesion?

    The finite verb stands alone in first position with no question word, forming a yes/no question.

    tagesschau.de
  • central to this sentence B2

    Braucht es Agrarsubventionen, um die Lebensmittelversorgung in Europa zu sichern?

    Does it need agricultural subsidies to secure the food supply in Europe?

    The finite verb moves to first position with no question word, forming a yes-no question.

    tagesschau.de
  • central to this sentence A2

    Spielt die Union mit?

    Is the Union playing along?

    The finite verb stands before the subject and there is no question word, so this is a yes-no question.

    tagesschau.de
  • central to this sentence B2

    Auf Schildern war zu lesen: "Der Wald brennt, und Friedrich pennt." Einige Landwirte störten die Pressekonferenz des CDU-Politikers mit Hupen. Es war der erste öffentliche Termin des Bundeskanzlers seit dem 29. Juli. Kommt der Besuch also zu spät?

    On signs it could be read: 'The forest is burning, and Friedrich is sleeping.' Some farmers disrupted the politician's press conference with horn blasts. It was the chancellor's first public appointment since 29 July. So is the visit coming too late?

    The finite verb moves to first position, turning the statement into a closed question.

    tagesschau.de

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