German Phrase
Gibt's 'ne extra Schlange?
Meaning
Literally, "Is there an extra line?" The speaker is asking whether a second, usually shorter, queue exists – for example a fast‑track line or a separate line for a specific group.
When to use
Use this phrase in informal settings such as cafés, ticket counters, or amusement parks when you suspect there might be a secondary queue. It’s best reserved for friends, peers, or staff you’re on a first‑name basis with; avoid it in formal business emails or official documents.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Gibt's'neextraSchlange?
Gibt's = Gibt es
The contraction "Gibt's" combines the verb "gibt" (from "geben") and the pronoun "es" to form the standard question "Gibt es?" meaning "Is there?"
'ne = eine
In spoken German the indefinite article "eine" is often shortened to "'ne" (pronounced [neː]), which is informal and used mainly in casual conversation.
Verb‑first question
German yes‑no questions place the finite verb at the beginning of the clause, as seen with "Gibt's".
Adjective position
The adjective "extra" directly precedes the noun "Schlange" without an article, a typical pattern for attributive adjectives.
🗨In Conversation
Gibt's 'ne extra Schlange?
Is there an extra line?
Ja, gleich hinter der Hauptschlange. Du musst nur nach rechts gehen.
Yes, right behind the main line. You just have to go right.
✕Common Mistakes
Gibt's ein extra Schlange?
The article must agree with the feminine noun "Schlange"; use "eine" (or its colloquial "'ne").
Gibt's 'ne extra Schlangen?
"Schlange" is singular here; the plural would be "Schlangen", but the question is about a single extra line.
Gibt's 'ne extra Schlange.
A question needs a question mark; otherwise it reads as a statement.
↔Alternatives
Gibt es eine zusätzliche Schlange?
Is there an additional line?
Ist hier eine weitere Schlange?
Is there another line here?
Gibt es noch eine Warteschlange?
Is there another queue?
Cultural Tip
In Germany, queuing ("Schlange stehen") is taken seriously and people usually keep a respectful distance. Many venues offer a separate "extra Schlange" for fast‑track tickets, families with children, or people with disabilities. Using the colloquial "'ne" signals a relaxed tone; in a more formal environment you’d say "Gibt es eine extra Schlange?". Also, remember that "Schlange" can also mean "snake" – context makes the meaning clear.