01
fraglich
questionable
Expresses that something is uncertain, doubtful, or not settled.
example
Es ist fraglich, ob er bei diesem Wetter pünktlich ankommen wird.
It is questionable whether he will arrive on time in this weather.
fraglich
questionable / in question
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 02
Usage tips
Word family
The word 'fraglich' (questionable/in question) is derived directly from the verb 'fragen' (to ask). It describes something that raises a question or can be called into question.
EXAMPLE
Sein plötzliches Verschwinden ist sehr fraglich.
His sudden disappearance is very questionable.
Context clue
The meaning of 'fraglich' (questionable/in question) depends on its position in the sentence. If it stands before a noun, it means 'betreffend' (concerning/in question), as in 'der fragliche Tag' (the day in question). If it stands with a verb like 'sein' (to be), it means 'unsicher' (uncertain), as in 'es ist fraglich' (it is questionable).
EXAMPLE
Der fragliche Brief wurde nie abgeschickt.
The letter in question was never sent.
Sentence structure with 'ob'
In the meaning 'unsicher' (uncertain), 'fraglich' (questionable) is very often used in the fixed structure 'Es ist fraglich, ob…' (It is questionable whether…) to express doubt.
EXAMPLE
Es ist fraglich, ob das neue Gesetz wirklich eine Verbesserung bringt.
It is questionable whether the new law will really bring an improvement.
Register
In the meaning 'betreffend' (concerning/in question), 'fraglich' (in question) is used mainly in formal contexts, such as administrative language, by the police, or in reports.
EXAMPLE
Die Polizei befragt Zeugen zum fraglichen Zeitpunkt des Unfalls.
The police are questioning witnesses about the time of the accident in question.
Compare with
fraglich vs sicher
sure / safe
'sicher' and 'fraglich' are clear opposites here. 'sicher' means that you have no doubt or that something is very likely. 'fraglich' means that something is still uncertain, doubtful, or not settled. Use 'sicher' when a statement is established or you are strongly convinced of it. 'fraglich' fits when you do not yet know whether something is true, will happen, or is possible.
fraglich
Wegen des Streiks ist fraglich, ob unser Zug fährt.
Because of the strike, it is questionable whether our train will run.
sicher
Morgen ist sicher genug Zeit für das Gespräch.
Tomorrow there will surely be enough time for the conversation.
In real life
Loading video examples...