warum
why
Es ist ein Fragewort, mit dem man nach dem Grund oder der Ursache für etwas fragt.
The German word "warum" is an adverb that means "why". It is used to ask for the reason or explanation behind something. "Warum" does not have smaller components, as it is a standalone interrogative word.
Similar words in German include "weshalb" and "weswegen," both of which also mean "why" and are used to inquire about reasons.
The slight difference between "warum" and the other two terms is stylistic; "warum" is the most commonly used form in everyday language, while "weshalb" and "weswegen" might convey a slightly more formal nuance.
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Examples
Warum lachst du?adverb
Why are you laughing?
Warum bist du so froh?adverb
Why are you so happy?
Warum rufst du mich an?adverb
Why are you calling me?
Warum kommt Anna heute nicht?adverb
Why isn't Anna coming today?
Warum ist die Tür offen?adverb
Why is the door open?
Warum weint das Kind?adverb
Why is the child crying?
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