verb

anfragen

inquire

Jemanden um Informationen oder Hilfe bitten.

The German word "anfragen" is a verb that means "to inquire" or "to request information". It is composed of:

  • "an" (prefix, means "at" or "to"),
  • "fragen" (verb meaning "to ask").

So, "anfragen" literally means "to ask at/to" someone, i.e., to make an inquiry or request.

Similar words:

  • nachfragen – to ask for clarification or follow-up questions.
  • fragen – to ask.
  • anrufen – to call (by phone, but sometimes for requesting).

Differences:

  • anfragen implies a formal, often written request for information.
  • nachfragen focuses more on asking again or for further details.
  • fragen is the general verb "to ask".

Thus, "anfragen" is typically used for official or formal inquiries.

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Examples

Könntest du bitte beim Lieferanten anfragen?verb

Could you please inquire with the supplier?

Wir haben gestern bei mehreren Hotels angefragt.verb

We inquired at several hotels yesterday.

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