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German Phrase

Sind die Lichter unten aus?

/zɪnt diː ˈlɪçtɐ ˈʊntn̩ aʊ̯s/
Meaning"Are the lights downstairs off?"
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Meaning

This is a standard question used to check if the electrical lights on a lower floor have been switched off. It uses the word 'aus' which functions as a predicative adjective to describe the state of being 'off'.

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When to use

Use this phrase in a domestic setting, typically before going to bed or leaving the house, to ensure energy is not being wasted. It is a very common household inquiry in German-speaking countries.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Sinddie Lichteruntenaus

1

Sind

This is the third-person plural form of 'sein' (to be), agreeing with the plural subject 'die Lichter'.

2

Aus

When referring to technology or lights, 'aus' means 'off'. It is the opposite of 'an' (on).

🗨In Conversation

A

Ich gehe jetzt schlafen. Sind die Lichter unten aus?

I am going to sleep now. Are the lights downstairs off?

Ja, ich habe sie vor fünf Minuten ausgemacht.

Yes, I turned them off five minutes ago.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Sind die Lichter unten zu?

    In German, 'zu' means closed, like a door. For electrical devices being off, always use 'aus'.

  • Haben die Lichter unten aus?

    The state of being off requires the verb 'sein' (to be), not 'haben' (to have).

↔Alternatives

  • Hast du das Licht unten ausgemacht?

    Did you turn the light downstairs off?

  • Brennt unten noch Licht?

    Is the light still burning (on) downstairs?

de

Cultural Tip

Environmental consciousness and energy saving are significant parts of German culture. It is very common for family members or roommates to remind each other to turn off lights in unoccupied rooms to save electricity.