In German
warum
Meaning: why
Example sentences
WarumlernstduDeutsch?
Why are you learning German?
Ichweißnicht,warum.
I don't know why.
Warumnicht?
Why not?
Grammar note
“Warum” asks for a reason. The answer usually starts with “weil” (because), which sends the verb to the end: “Weil ich Deutsch liebe”.
Common mistake
Don't confuse “warum” (why) with “wann” (when). “Warum” asks for a reason; “wann” asks about time.
Quick check
Which question word means “why”?
More words on this topic
Keep learning German
Practise it in a lesson →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between “warum” and “wieso”?
They mean the same and are interchangeable in everyday German. “Weshalb” is a little more formal.
What's the German for “because”?
“Weil”. In a sentence with “weil”, the conjugated verb moves to the end.