💺❓

How to Say ‘Is this seat free?’ in German

Ist hier noch frei?

ist heer nohkh fry

[ist heer nohkh fry]

💬 Usage Tip: There's no word for "seat" here. It's literally "is here still free?", and hier does all the work. Point at the chair as you ask.

Phrase Breakdown

Ist hier

ist heer

Is this (seat)

'hier' means 'here'. Say it 'heer' with a soft 'r'.

Example

Ist hier jemand?

Is someone here?

Words in this phrase

Ist

[ist]

A form of the verb 'sein' used for singular subjects.

Example

Für viele Bewerber Ist ein gutes Teamklima entscheidend.

For many applicants, a good team climate is crucial.

hier

[heer]

here

Refers to this place, such as the current event or location.

Example

Es ist gut, hier neue Leute kennenzulernen.

It is good to meet new people here.

noch frei?

nohkh fry

still free?

The standard way to ask if a seat is taken. 'frei' sounds like 'fry'.

Example

Ist der Platz noch frei?

Is the seat still free?

Words in this phrase

noch

[nohkh]

Still

Refers to continuing in time.

Example

Ich bin noch am Arbeiten.

I am still working.

frei

[fry]

free / available

Used for appointment slots that are not yet taken.

Example

Der Termin ist noch frei.

The appointment is still available.

Guides for German learners

Duolingo vs Pimsleur: Tapping on a Screen or Talking Out Loud?Duolingo vs Pimsleur: five minutes of tapping versus thirty minutes of speaking. What each is good at, what each costs, and which to pick for your goal.

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