das Fragezeichen, –
question mark
Ein kleines Zeichen in der Schrift, das am Ende eines Satzes steht, wenn jemand etwas wissen möchte oder unsicher ist.
Definition & meaning
The word "Fragezeichen" primarily refers to the punctuation mark (?) used at the end of a sentence to indicate a direct question.
In a figurative sense, it is frequently used to describe a state of uncertainty, doubt, or an unresolved issue. When someone says there is a "Fragezeichen" behind a plan or a person's future, it means that the outcome is unclear or that there are unanswered questions regarding that subject.
Grammar & Word origin
The word is a neuter compound noun: das Fragezeichen. Its plural form is identical to the singular: die Fragezeichen.
It is composed of two distinct German words:
- Frage – meaning "question," derived from the verb fragen (to ask).
- Zeichen – meaning "sign," "symbol," or "mark."
Literally translated, it means "question sign." This structure is common in German for naming punctuation marks, such as the Ausrufezeichen (exclamation mark).
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms: In a technical or linguistic context, it can be called an Interrogativzeichen. In its figurative sense (meaning uncertainty), synonyms include Ungewissheit (uncertainty), Unklarheit (lack of clarity), or Rätsel (mystery/riddle).
Antonyms: As a punctuation mark, its opposites are the Punkt (period/full stop) or the Ausrufezeichen (exclamation mark). In a figurative sense, the opposite would be Gewissheit (certainty), Klarheit (clarity), or Antwort (answer).
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Examples
Am Satzende steht ein Fragezeichen.noun
At the end of the sentence there is a question mark.
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