to question
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to question
To not simply accept something as given, but to critically examine and question the background, motives, or legitimacy of it.
Ein guter Journalist muss die Aussagen von Politikern immer kritisch hinterfragen.
A good journalist must always critically question politicians’ statements.
'Hinterfragen' (to question) is an inseparable verb. The prefix 'hinter-' remains firmly attached to the verb in all conjugated forms and sentence types. The past participle is formed without 'ge-': 'hinterfragt'.
Sie hat die Entscheidung ihres Chefs hinterfragt.
She questioned her boss’s decision.
The verb 'hinterfragen' (to question) is transitive and always requires a direct object in the accusative. You always question 'etwas' (something).
Wir sollten unsere eigenen Gewohnheiten öfter hinterfragen.
We should question our own habits more often.
'Hinterfragen' (to question) has a rather intellectual or analytical character. It means more than simply 'fragen' (to ask); it implies a deep, critical examination of reasons and motives.
In der Philosophie lernt man, alles zu hinterfragen.
In philosophy, you learn to question everything.
Abstract concepts are often questioned. Typical objects include, for example, 'eine Entscheidung' (a decision), 'eine Regel' (a rule), 'eine Norm' (a norm), 'ein System' (a system), or 'Motive' (motives).
Manchmal ist es notwendig, bestehende Regeln zu hinterfragen.
Sometimes it is necessary to question existing rules.
to check / test
'prüfen' and 'hinterfragen' both mean that you do not simply accept something without checking it. 'prüfen' is neutral: you check something or carefully consider a possibility. 'hinterfragen' is more critical. You ask about the reasons, motives, or legitimacy of something. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with careful thinking. 'prüfen' is appropriate when you want to determine certainty or correctness. 'hinterfragen' is appropriate when you have doubts or want to view something critically.
Tom hinterfragt die Entscheidung, weil niemand die Gründe erklärt hat.
Tom questions the decision because no one has explained the reasons.
Vor dem Termin prüft sie noch einmal alle Unterlagen.
Before the appointment, she checks all the documents once more.