German Phrase
Glaubst du, dass diese Lösung machbar ist?
Meaning
This phrase is used to inquire about someone's opinion on the practicality or possibility of a proposed solution. It directly asks if they believe the solution can actually be implemented or achieved. The 'dass' clause introduces a subordinate clause, which is common in German for expressing beliefs or opinions.
When to use
You would typically use this phrase in professional settings, during project discussions, brainstorming sessions, or when evaluating proposals. It's a polite and direct way to seek feedback on the viability of an idea or plan, often implying a need for a practical assessment.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Glaubst dudassdiese Lösungmachbar ist
Glaubst du...
'Glauben' means 'to believe'. When asking for an opinion, 'Glaubst du, dass...?' is a common and polite way to inquire. It's conjugated for 'du' (you, informal singular).
dass
'Dass' is a conjunction that introduces a subordinate clause. In a 'dass' clause, the conjugated verb always moves to the very end of the clause.
diese Lösung
'Diese' means 'this' and agrees in gender and number with the noun 'Lösung' (solution), which is feminine. 'Lösung' is the subject of the subordinate clause.
machbar ist
'Machbar' means 'feasible' or 'doable'. 'Ist' is the conjugated form of 'sein' (to be) for 'diese Lösung' (it). Because it's a 'dass' clause, 'ist' is placed at the end.
🗨In Conversation
Wir könnten versuchen, das Projekt mit weniger Personal zu starten.
We could try to start the project with less staff.
Glaubst du, dass diese Lösung machbar ist?
Do you think that this solution is feasible?
✕Common Mistakes
Denkst du, dass diese Lösung möglich ist?
While 'möglich' means 'possible', 'machbar' specifically implies 'feasible' or 'doable' in a practical sense. 'Möglich' is broader and might not convey the same sense of practical implementability.
Glaubst du, diese Lösung ist machbar?
Omitting 'dass' is grammatically incorrect when introducing a subordinate clause after 'glauben' in this context. The verb 'ist' should also be at the end of the subordinate clause.
Glaubst du, dass ist diese Lösung machbar?
In a 'dass' clause, the conjugated verb (ist) must always go to the very end of the clause. The word order is subject-object-verb.
↔Alternatives
Hältst du das für machbar?
Do you consider that feasible?
Ist das umsetzbar?
Is that implementable/doable?
Meinst du, das geht?
Do you think that works/is possible?
Cultural Tip
Germans often value directness and practicality in communication, especially in professional contexts. Asking 'Glaubst du, dass diese Lösung machbar ist?' is a straightforward way to get to the core of an issue. Expect an honest and often detailed assessment, focusing on potential challenges and realistic outcomes rather than just polite agreement.