German Phrase
Ist der Laden teuer?
Meaning
This phrase is a direct question used to inquire about the price level of a specific store. It combines the verb 'ist' (is) with 'der Laden' (the shop) and the adjective 'teuer' (expensive).
When to use
Use this phrase when you are considering going into a shop and want to know if it is within your budget. It is a common question to ask friends or locals for their opinion on a business.
✦Grammar Breakdown
IstderLadenteuer?
Verb Position
In German yes/no questions, the conjugated verb ('Ist') moves to the first position of the sentence.
Masculine Nouns
'Laden' is a masculine noun, which is why it uses the definite article 'der' in the nominative case.
Predicative Adjectives
The adjective 'teuer' appears after the verb and refers back to the subject, so it remains in its base form without endings.
🗨In Conversation
Wollen wir in diese Boutique gehen?
Do we want to go into this boutique?
Ist der Laden teuer?
Is the shop expensive?
✕Common Mistakes
Ist der Laden teueren?
Adjectives used after the verb 'sein' (predicative use) do not take any endings.
Macht der Laden teuer?
In German, you use the verb 'sein' (to be) to describe a state, not 'macht' (to make).
↔Alternatives
Sind die Preise hier hoch?
Are the prices here high?
Ist das Geschäft kostspielig?
Is the store costly?
Cultural Tip
Germans are often quite transparent about prices and value for money. While 'Laden' is a common word for a shop, you might also hear 'Geschäft' used in more formal contexts or for larger establishments.