warum
why
As an interrogative adverb that asks about the reason, cause, or purpose of something. It introduces both direct questions and indirect questions (subordinate clauses).
EXAMPLE
Warum hast du mich nicht angerufen?
Why didn't you call me?
warum
why
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Meanings
Usage tips
Word order
As a question word, 'warum' (why) introduces a direct question in which the conjugated verb is in position 2. But it can also introduce a subordinate clause; then the verb comes at the end of the clause.
EXAMPLE
Warum ist der Himmel blau?
Why is the sky blue?
Question and answer
A question with 'warum' (why) is typically answered with 'weil' (because) or 'denn' (because/for). After 'weil', a subordinate clause follows with the verb at the end; after 'denn', a main clause follows with the verb in position 2.
EXAMPLE
Warum kommst du zu spät? – Weil mein Bus Verspätung hatte.
Why are you late? – Because my bus was delayed.
Short follow-up question
'Warum?' (why?) can stand alone as a short, direct question to ask for the reason behind a previous statement. This is very common in spoken language.
EXAMPLE
Ich kann heute Abend nicht mitkommen. – Warum?
I can't come along tonight. – Why?
Compare with
warum vs wieso
why
Warum and wieso both ask about the reason for an action or event. Warum usually sounds neutral, whereas wieso often conveys surprise or doubt. In a factual question, warum is therefore more suitable; wieso is particularly natural when asking in surprise.
warum
Warum fährt der Bus heute eine andere Strecke?
Why is the bus taking a different route today?
wieso
Wieso fährt der Bus heute schon wieder eine andere Strecke?
Why is the bus taking a different route again today?
In real life
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