What are Extended Question Words?
Extended question words combine a preposition with 'wer' (who) or 'was' (what) to ask about things, actions and reasons in German. Instead of saying a preposition + was separately, you use a single word like 'wofür' or 'womit'.
Extended question words (wofür, womit, worüber, etc.) combine a preposition + wer or was into one word for asking 'with what', 'about what', 'why' and similar questions.
Step-by-step worked examples
Ask: 'What is she thinking about?' using worüber
Preposition: über (about) Combine: über + was = worüber Question: Worüber denkt sie nach?
Ask: 'What are you writing with?' using womit
Preposition: mit (with) Combine: mit + was = womit Question: Womit schreibst du?
Ask: 'What is this good for?' using wofür
Preposition: für (for) Combine: für + was = wofür Question: Wofür ist das gut?
Flashcards
Quick quiz
Q1.wofür = ?
Q2.'Womit schreibst du?' means…
Q3.Worüber — this combines…
Q4.Which is an extended question word?
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Common mistakes
Using separate words: 'Für was…?' instead of 'Wofür…?' — Correct: Use the combined form: Wofür…?
Thinking extended question words only exist with wer. — Correct: They form mainly with was, sometimes with wer.
Forgetting which preposition is in the word. — Correct: wo- prefix hints at the preposition: wofür, womit, worüber, etc.
Using extended words when asking about people. — Correct: For people, use preposition + wer separately: 'Mit wem…?' (With whom?).
FAQ
What are extended question words in German?
Single words that combine a preposition with was to ask questions — e.g. wofür (for what), womit (with what).
How do you form extended question words?
Use wo- + the preposition sound: wofür, womit, worüber, wovon, wozu, woran, etc.
When do you use extended vs. separate forms?
Extended forms (wofür) for things; separate (mit wem) for people.
What about wer — can you use wo- + wer?
Rarely. For 'whom' you say 'mit wem' separately, not 'wowem'.