German Phrase
Erklär mir genau, welche Symptome du beobachtest.
Meaning
This phrase is a direct request for a detailed description of physical or technical signs. It uses the imperative 'Erklär' to prompt the listener to provide specific information about what they are noticing. It is highly functional in medical, diagnostic, or troubleshooting contexts.
When to use
Use this phrase when you need a thorough report from someone about a problem they are experiencing. It is common in doctor-patient interactions, technical support, or when helping a friend diagnose a health issue.
✦Grammar Breakdown
ErklärmirgenauwelcheSymptomedubeobachtest
Erklär (Imperative)
This is the informal singular imperative of 'erklären'. For the 'du' form, you drop the -en ending and the pronoun.
Subordinate Clause Word Order
The word 'welche' introduces an indirect question, which functions as a subordinate clause, pushing the verb 'beobachtest' to the very end.
🗨In Conversation
Ich fühle mich seit gestern irgendwie unwohl.
I've been feeling unwell somehow since yesterday.
Erklär mir genau, welche Symptome du beobachtest.
Explain to me exactly which symptoms you are observing.
✕Common Mistakes
Erklär mich genau, welche Symptome du beobachtest.
The verb 'erklären' requires the dative case 'mir' for the person receiving the explanation.
Erklär mir genau, welche Symptome beobachtest du.
In a subordinate clause starting with 'welche', the conjugated verb must go to the end of the sentence.
↔Alternatives
Beschreibe mir deine Symptome bitte ganz genau.
Please describe your symptoms to me very precisely.
Was genau ist dir aufgefallen?
What exactly have you noticed?
Cultural Tip
In German-speaking cultures, precision in communication is highly valued, especially in professional or medical settings. Using the word 'genau' (exactly) signals that you are looking for facts and specific details rather than vague feelings. This directness helps in reaching a solution or diagnosis more efficiently.