fragen vs anfragen
German word comparison
Listen to fragen
Listen to anfragen
| fragen | anfragen |
|---|---|
FRAH-gen verb | AHN-frah-gen verb |
| to ask (a question); to inquire | to inquire or make a formal request for information or services, often in writing or by email/phone |
How they differ
Anfragen usually implies a formal or official request (e.g., by email, letter, or phone) directed at an organization or service provider; fragen is more general and conversational. Anfragen often expects a formal response or quote, whereas fragen can be informal and immediate.
When to use each
When to use fragen: Prefer fragen in casual, face-to-face situations or when asking an individual a straightforward question.
When to use anfragen: Prefer anfragen for formal requests for information, availability, or quotations, especially in business or administrative contexts.
Side-by-side examples
- Darf ich dich etwas fragen?
(May I ask you something?) - Wir haben beim Hotel per E‑Mail angefragt, ob noch Zimmer frei sind.
(We inquired by email at the hotel whether there are still rooms available.)
Register & nuance: More formal and frequent in written or business contexts; less common in casual spoken one-to-one questions.