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German Phrase

Ich schreibe dir, um kurz darüber nachzufragen.

/ɪç ˈʃraɪ̯bə diːɐ̯ ʊm kʊʁt͡s daˈryːbɐ ˈnaxˌfraːɡn̩/
Meaning"I am writing to you to briefly ask about it."
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Meaning

This phrase is a polite and common way to initiate a follow-up or ask for clarification on a topic that has already been mentioned or is understood by both parties. It implies that the inquiry will be brief and to the point, making it suitable for professional or semi-formal communication.

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When to use

Use this phrase when you want to politely follow up on a previous conversation, email, or topic, and you need to ask a quick question or get more information. It's perfect for emails, messages, or even in-person conversations when you're referring back to something.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Ichschreibedir,umkurzdarübernachzufragen.

1

Ich schreibe

'Ich schreibe' is the first person singular conjugation of the verb 'schreiben' (to write). It's a regular verb in the present tense.

2

dir (Dative Case)

'Dir' is the dative form of 'du' (you, informal singular). The verb 'schreiben' often takes a dative object for the person to whom something is written.

3

um...zu + Infinitive

The 'um...zu' construction is used to express purpose or intention, similar to 'in order to' in English. The infinitive verb (here, 'nachfragen') goes at the end, preceded by 'zu'.

4

kurz

'Kurz' means 'briefly' or 'shortly'. It functions as an adverb here, modifying the verb 'nachzufragen' to indicate the nature of the inquiry.

5

darüber

'Darüber' is a pronominal adverb meaning 'about it' or 'concerning that'. It refers back to a previously mentioned topic or context, avoiding repetition.

6

nachzufragen

'Nachfragen' is a separable verb meaning 'to inquire' or 'to follow up'. In the 'um...zu' construction, the 'zu' is inserted between the prefix 'nach-' and the verb stem 'fragen'.

🗨In Conversation

A

Ich habe die E-Mail bezüglich des Projekts erhalten.

I received the email regarding the project.

Super! Ich schreibe dir, um kurz darüber nachzufragen.

Great! I am writing to you to briefly ask about it.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Ich schreibe dir, um kurz darüber fragen.

    The verb 'nachfragen' (to inquire, to follow up) is more appropriate here than 'fragen' (to ask), as it implies a follow-up question about something already known.

  • Ich schreibe dir, um kurz nach darüber nachzufragen.

    The preposition 'nach' is already part of 'nachfragen'. 'Darüber' (about it) correctly covers the 'about' aspect, so 'nach darüber' is redundant.

  • Ich schreibe dir, um darüber kurz nachzufragen.

    While not strictly incorrect, placing 'kurz' (briefly) directly before 'darüber' sounds less natural. It's more common to place 'kurz' before the infinitive 'nachzufragen' or after 'um'.

↔Alternatives

  • Ich wollte kurz nachfragen.

    I just wanted to ask/inquire briefly.

  • Ich habe eine kurze Frage dazu.

    I have a quick question about that.

  • Ich wollte mich erkundigen.

    I wanted to inquire.

de

Cultural Tip

Germans generally appreciate directness and clarity in communication, but politeness is also highly valued, especially in written correspondence or professional settings. Phrases like 'Ich schreibe dir, um...' are common and signal a clear purpose for the communication. Using 'kurz' (briefly) also shows consideration for the other person's time, which is often appreciated.