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German Phrase

Hast du noch Papier?

/hast duː nɔx paˈpiːɐ̯/
Meaning"Do you still have paper?"
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Meaning

The sentence asks whether the listener still has any paper left, usually in the context of needing a sheet for writing, printing, or drawing. It implies that the speaker might need some paper soon.

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When to use

Use this phrase in an office, classroom, or home setting when you need to check if there are any sheets of paper left. It works both for a quick informal request and for a polite inquiry among colleagues or friends.

✦Grammar Breakdown

HastdunochPapier?

1

Verb‑First in Yes/No Questions

In German yes/no questions the finite verb moves to the first position, followed by the subject.

2

Haben – Present Tense (du)

The verb *haben* conjugates as *hast* for the second‑person singular (du).

3

Placement of *noch*

*Noch* (still) is placed directly after the subject and before the noun it modifies.

4

No Article with Uncountable Nouns

When speaking about paper in a general sense, German omits the article; *Papier* is treated as an uncountable noun.

🗨In Conversation

A

Hast du noch Papier?

Do you still have any paper?

Ja, ich habe noch ein paar Blätter. Brauchst du eins?

Yes, I still have a few sheets. Do you need one?

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Hast du noch Papieren?

    Paper is uncountable in this context, so the plural *Papieren* is incorrect.

  • Hast du noch das Papier?

    Using the definite article *das* implies a specific sheet, which changes the meaning.

  • Hast du noch ein Papier?

    The indefinite article *ein* is not used with uncountable nouns like *Papier*.

↔Alternatives

  • Hast du noch etwas Papier?

    Do you still have some paper?

  • Gibt es noch Papier?

    Is there any paper left?

  • Hast du noch Papier übrig?

    Do you have any paper left over?

de

Cultural Tip

In German-speaking offices it’s common to ask for supplies in a concise way. Using *Papier* without an article signals you’re talking about paper in a general, uncountable sense – similar to English “paper”. If you need a specific amount, you can add *ein Blatt* (one sheet) or *ein paar Blätter* (a few sheets). Remember to keep the tone friendly; a simple *Bitte* after the answer is appreciated.