German Phrase
Soll die Suppe kalt sein?
Meaning
The speaker is asking whether the soup is supposed to be served cold. It can refer to a recipe, a restaurant order, or a culinary tradition where a cold soup is expected.
When to use
Use this sentence when you want to confirm the intended temperature of a soup – for example, when a waiter suggests a cold soup, when you read a recipe that mentions a cold preparation, or when you’re discussing seasonal dishes with friends.
✦Grammar Breakdown
SolldieSuppekaltsein?
Modalverb *sollen*
*Sollen* expresses an expectation or recommendation. In a question it occupies the first position and is followed by the infinitive at the end.
Verb‑Zweit‑Frage
German main clauses have V2 order. In yes/no questions the finite verb moves to the first position, pushing the subject after it.
Artikel und Substantiv
*die* is the definite article for the feminine noun *Suppe*.
Prädikativ‑Adjektiv
*kalt* is used predicatively, so it has no ending; the copular verb *sein* carries the tense.
Infinitiv am Satzende
The infinitive *sein* must stay at the very end of the clause, even in a question.
🗨In Conversation
Soll die Suppe kalt sein?
Should the soup be cold?
Ja, das ist ein kaltes Rezept – bitte nicht erwärmen.
Yes, it’s a cold recipe – please don’t heat it up.
✕Common Mistakes
Soll die Suppe kalt?
The infinitive *sein* is missing; German requires the infinitive after a modal verb.
Soll die Suppe kalt ist?
After a modal verb the infinitive *sein* must be used, not the conjugated form *ist*.
Soll die Suppe kalt zu sein?
The particle *zu* is not used with modal verbs.
↔Alternatives
Muss die Suppe kalt sein?
Must the soup be cold?
Soll die Suppe kalt serviert werden?
Should the soup be served cold?
Ist die Suppe kalt?
Is the soup cold?
Cultural Tip
In German cuisine cold soups are popular in summer – think of *Gazpacho*, *Vichyssoise* or the classic *kalte Gurkensuppe*. Asking about the temperature is considered polite because it shows you respect the chef’s intention and the dining etiquette.