German Conversation · Level 138
30 words
German word
hinterfragen
Pronunciation
IPA/hɪntɐˈfʁaːgən/
Meaning
- verbquestion
Example
Man hinterfragt heute oft alte Traditionen.
People often question old traditions these days.
More examples
Als Forscher sollte man hinterfragen, bevor man Schlussfolgerungen zieht.
As a researcher, one should question things before drawing conclusions.
Core concept
A familiar practice is opened up to reveal the assumptions carrying it.
Common phrases
die Praxis hinterfragen
question the practice
seine Überzeugungen hinterfragen
question one's beliefs
Gewohnheiten hinterfragen
question habits
Similar words
in Frage stellen: Challenge whether a claim or plan is correct or valid.
anzweifeln: Doubt the accuracy of what someone says or of supporting evidence.
in Zweifel ziehen: Cast doubt on the certainty of evidence or an assessment.
überprüfen: Check facts or procedures to confirm that they are correct.
Definition in German
eine Aussage, Gewohnheit oder Theorie auf ihre Grundlagen hin prüfen und Zweifel an stillschweigenden Annahmen äußern
Word origin
As a compound, hinterfragen joins hinter, "behind," and fragen, "ask"; the verb developed from asking about what lies behind something to critical examination.
Usage tips
- Hinterfragen is inseparable, so its past participle is hinterfragt rather than hintergefragt.