German Phrase
Nimmt Dr. Smith Patienten an?
Meaning
The sentence asks whether Dr. Smith accepts patients at his practice. It is a neutral, polite way to inquire about a doctor's availability for new or existing patients.
When to use
Use this question when you call a medical office, write an email, or speak directly to the receptionist to find out if you can become a patient of Dr. Smith or schedule an appointment.
✦Grammar Breakdown
NimmtDr.SmithPatientenan?
Verb‑First Question
In yes/no questions the finite verb moves to the first position, before the subject.
Separable Prefix "an"
The verb *annehmen* splits; the prefix *an* is placed at the end of the clause in main clauses and questions.
Accusative Plural "Patienten"
The object "Patienten" is in the accusative case; plural nouns have the same form for nominative and accusative.
Title "Dr."
German titles are written with a period and are not declined; they stay before the name.
🗨In Conversation
Guten Tag, hier ist Frau Müller. Nimmt Dr. Smith Patienten an?
Good day, this is Mrs. Müller. Does Dr. Smith accept patients?
Ja, er nimmt neue Patienten an. Einen Termin können wir gleich vereinbaren.
Yes, he does take new patients. We can arrange an appointment right away.
✕Common Mistakes
Nimmt Dr. Smith Patienten?
Missing the separable prefix *an*; the correct verb is *annehmen*.
Nimmt Dr. Smith den Patienten an?
Using the singular *den Patienten* changes the meaning to a specific patient; the intended meaning is plural (any patients).
Nimmt Dr. Smith Patienten an?
If you want a more polite form, use *nimmt Herr Dr. Smith Patienten an?* or add *bitte* at the end.
↔Alternatives
Nimmt Dr. Smith neue Patienten auf?
Does Dr. Smith take on new patients?
Kann man bei Dr. Smith einen Termin bekommen?
Can one get an appointment with Dr. Smith?
Ist Dr. Smith für neue Patienten verfügbar?
Is Dr. Smith available for new patients?
Cultural Tip
In German medical settings it is customary to address doctors with their title and last name (e.g., *Herr Dr. Smith*). The verb *annehmen* is formal; for a more casual tone you might hear *aufnehmen* or simply *nehmen* without the prefix. Also, always use the polite "Sie" form when speaking to staff or the doctor.