German Phrase
Gehst du raus?
Meaning
This is a common question used to ask if someone is planning to leave the current indoor location to go outside. It combines the verb 'gehen' (to go) with the prefix 'raus', which is a colloquial shortening of 'hinaus', indicating movement away from the speaker toward the exterior.
When to use
Use this phrase in casual settings when you see someone putting on their coat or heading toward the door. It is perfect for roommates, family members, or close colleagues in a relaxed environment.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Gehstduraus
Verb Inversion
In German questions, the conjugated verb 'Gehst' moves to the first position, followed immediately by the subject 'du'.
Raus
This is a directional adverb and a shortened form of 'hinaus'. In this sentence, it functions like a separable prefix that stays at the end.
🗨In Conversation
Gehst du raus?
Are you going out?
Ja, die Sonne scheint endlich wieder!
Yes, the sun is finally shining again!
✕Common Mistakes
Gehst du aus?
'Ausgehen' typically implies going out for a social event like a date or a party, while 'rausgehen' refers to the physical act of exiting a building.
Tust du rausgehen?
Avoid using 'tun' as an auxiliary verb to form questions in standard German; use the conjugated main verb instead.
↔Alternatives
Gehst du nach draußen?
Are you going outside?
Willst du an die frische Luft?
Do you want to get some fresh air?
Cultural Tip
Germans have a strong culture of spending time outdoors regardless of the weather, often saying 'There is no bad weather, only bad clothing.' Asking 'Gehst du raus?' is a standard way to acknowledge someone leaving for a walk or a quick errand.