German Conversation · Level 129
43 words
German word
erkundigen
Pronunciation
IPA/ɛɐ̯ˈkʊndɪgən/
Meaning
- verbask about
Example
Ich erkundige mich nach dem Preis.
I ask about the price.
More examples
Sie hat sich telefonisch nach den Öffnungszeiten erkundigt.
She asked by phone about the opening hours.
Core concept
A question opens a path from uncertainty to a specific piece of information.
Common phrases
sich erkundigen nach den Öffnungszeiten
ask about the opening hours
sich erkundigen nach dem Liefertermin
ask about the delivery date
sich erkundigen bei der Auskunft
ask at the information desk
Similar words
fragen: Putting a question directly to someone to obtain the needed answer.
sich informieren: Collecting useful knowledge and up-to-date information from relevant sources.
nachfragen: Requesting further information to resolve an unclear point.
anfragen: Submitting a written inquiry in a business or official setting.
Definition in German
Informationen einholen, sei es durch persönliche Nachfrage oder durch Recherche.
Word origin
The verb developed from the Germanic root kund, associated with knowledge, and its modern reflexive use refers to obtaining knowledge through inquiry.
Usage tips
- The reflexive pronoun is required in the common use: 'ich erkundige mich', not 'ich erkundige den Preis'.