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German Phrase

Gibt's eine Signierstunde?

/ɡɪpt͡s ˈaɪ̯nə ˈzɪɡniɐʃtʊndə/
Meaning"Is there a signing hour?"
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Meaning

The speaker is asking whether a signing hour – a scheduled time when an author, artist, or celebrity signs autographs – is available. The question is informal and uses the common spoken contraction "Gibt's".

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When to use

Use this phrase at book fairs, conventions, museum openings, or any event where a public figure might offer a signing session. It works well when you are already on site and want to confirm the timing.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Gibt'seineSignierstunde?

1

Contraction "Gibt's"

"Gibt's" is the colloquial contraction of "gibt es" (there is/are). It is common in spoken German and informal writing.

2

Impersonal verb "geben"

The verb "geben" is used impersonally with the placeholder "es" to indicate existence. The subject is the dummy "es", not a concrete noun.

3

Indefinite article "eine"

Because "Signierstunde" is feminine (die Signierstunde), the correct indefinite article is "eine".

4

Compound noun "Signierstunde"

German often creates compound nouns; here "Signier" (signing) + "Stunde" (hour) denotes a time slot for signing autographs.

🗨In Conversation

A

Gibt's eine Signierstunde?

Is there a signing hour?

Ja, heute um 15 Uhr im Eingangsbereich.

Yes, today at 3 p.m. in the entrance hall.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Gibt eine Signierstunde?

    The verb needs the dummy subject "es"; "Gibt" alone is incomplete.

  • Gibt's ein Signierstunde?

    "Signierstunde" is feminine, so the correct article is "eine".

  • Gibt's ein Signierstunde?

    Combines the two errors above – missing "es" and wrong article gender.

↔Alternatives

  • Gibt es eine Signierstunde?

    Is there a signing hour?

  • Findet heute eine Signierstunde statt?

    Is a signing hour taking place today?

  • Kann ich an einer Signierstunde teilnehmen?

    Can I take part in a signing hour?

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Cultural Tip

In German‑speaking countries, signing sessions are often announced on flyers or event apps. While "Gibt's" is perfectly fine among peers, in a more formal setting you might prefer the full form "Gibt es..." or add a polite opener such as "Entschuldigung, gibt es...". Remember that "Signierstunde" is feminine, so the article must be "eine".