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German Phrase

Regnet's draußen stark?

/ˈʁeːɡn̩t ɛs ˈdʁaʊ̯sn̩ ˈʃtʏʁk/
Meaning"Is it raining heavily outside?"
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Meaning

The speaker is asking whether it is raining heavily outside. The question combines a weather verb with an intensifier, making it clear that the speaker expects a strong downpour rather than a light drizzle.

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When to use

Use this phrase in casual conversation when you step outside, look out a window, or plan an activity and need to know if the weather will interfere. It’s perfect for friends, family, or coworkers in informal settings.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Regnet'sdraußenstark?

1

Verb‑first question (V1)

In German yes/no questions the finite verb comes first, followed by the subject.

2

Contraction "Regnet's"

"Regnet's" is the spoken contraction of "Regnet es"; it is common in informal speech but avoided in formal writing.

3

Adverb placement

Adverbs of place (draußen) and manner (stark) are placed after the subject in a statement, but in a question they follow the verb directly.

4

Intensifier "stark" with rain

"Stark" can intensify the verb "regnen" to mean "heavily"; alternatives are "heftig" or "schwer".

🗨In Conversation

A

Regnet's draußen stark?

Is it raining heavily outside?

Ja, es schüttet gleich. Nimm besser einen Regenschirm mit.

Yes, it’s pouring right now. You’d better take an umbrella.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Regnet's draußen stark?

    In formal writing avoid the contraction; use "Regnet es..." instead.

  • Stark regnet es draußen?

    The adverb should follow the verb, not precede it.

  • Draußen stark regnet es?

    Word order in a question must start with the verb.

↔Alternatives

  • Regnet es draußen stark?

    Is it raining heavily outside?

  • Regnet es draußen?

    Is it raining outside?

  • Schüttet es draußen?

    Is it pouring outside?

  • Gießt es draußen stark?

    Is it pouring heavily outside?

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Cultural Tip

The contraction "Regnet's" is typical of spoken German, especially in northern and central regions. In written German or formal contexts you would use the full form "Regnet es...". Also, Germans often use the verb "schütten" (to pour) for very heavy rain, so "Schüttet es draußen?" sounds natural and a bit more vivid.