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German Phrase

Brauchst du neue Wachsmalstifte?

/ˈbʁaʊ̯xst du ˈnɔʏ̯ə ˈvaxsmalˌʃtɪfə/
Meaning"Do you need new wax crayons?"
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Meaning

This sentence asks whether the listener needs new wax crayons. It is a straightforward yes‑no question that can be used when checking supplies for drawing, coloring, or school projects.

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When to use

Use this phrase in a classroom, an art store, or at home when you notice that the crayons are worn out or missing. It’s a friendly way to offer help or to ask if more supplies should be bought.

✦Grammar Breakdown

BrauchstduneueWachsmalstifte?

1

Verb conjugation (du)

The verb 'brauchen' is conjugated as 'brauchst' for the second person singular (du).

2

Subject pronoun (du)

In questions, the subject pronoun 'du' follows the verb.

3

Indefinite adjective (neue)

The adjective 'neu' takes the ending '-e' because it precedes a plural noun in the accusative.

4

Plural noun (Wachsmalstifte)

Wachsmalstifte is a plural noun meaning 'wax crayons'; it is the direct object of the verb.

5

Question mark

German yes‑no questions are formed by inverting verb and subject and ending with a question mark.

🗨In Conversation

A

Brauchst du neue Wachsmalstifte?

Do you need new wax crayons?

Ja, ein paar wären super, die alten sind fast alle abgenutzt.

Yes, a few would be great; the old ones are almost all worn out.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Brauchst du neue Wachsmalstift?

    The noun must be plural because you are asking for more than one crayon.

  • Du brauchst neue Wachsmalstifte?

    In a yes‑no question the verb comes before the subject; 'du brauchst' is a statement, not a question.

  • Brauchst du neue neuen Wachsmalstifte?

    The adjective takes the ending '-e' in the accusative plural, not '-en'.

↔Alternatives

  • Benötigst du neue Wachsmalstifte?

    Do you need new wax crayons?

  • Willst du neue Wachsmalstifte?

    Do you want new wax crayons?

  • Möchtest du neue Wachsmalstifte?

    Would you like new wax crayons?

de

Cultural Tip

In German primary schools, 'Wachsmalstifte' are the standard coloring tool for young children. They are often sold in bright, multi‑color packs and are a common gift for birthdays. When speaking to adults, you might use the more formal 'benötigen' instead of the casual 'brauchen'.