das ist für dich
The English phrase "this is for you" is translated into German as das ist für dich.
The phrase is used when giving a gift or an item to someone.
Which one should you use?
das ist für dich is the informal version of the phrase, whereas das ist für Sie is the formal version used when speaking to a stranger, a superior or in a formal business setting.
How does it change in a sentence?
The preposition für always takes the accusative case, which is why the pronoun du becomes dich.
Did you know?
- When receiving a gift after hearing das ist für dich, it is common in Germany to open the present immediately in front of the giver rather than waiting.
- While das ist für dich is the standard way to give a gift, Germans often accompany the hand-off with the word Bitte, which means 'please' but here functions as 'here you go'.
- The word dich shares a common ancestor with the Old Saxon word thī, showing a deep linguistic link between the German and Anglo-Saxon roots of English.
Examples in context
- Das ist für dich, Tom.This is for you, Tom.This example shows how to use das ist für dich when addressing someone by name.Tatoeba #3523947 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #2647055 by CK
- Ich denke, das ist für dich.I think this is for you.This example illustrates expressing a thought using das ist für dich.Tatoeba #6644584 by Felixjp, translation #3184023 by CK
- Das ist für dich, denke ich.This is for you, I think.This example shows an alternative sentence structure using das ist für dich.Tatoeba #6645579 by Felixjp, translation #3178505 by CK
- Hier haben Sie eine Kopie des Berichts.Here is a copy of the report for you.
- Das ist für dich. Alles Gute zum Geburtstag!This is for you. Happy birthday!
- 2 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Felix gives a small gift to Laura in a cafe.
- FelixDas ist für dich.This is for you.
- LauraOh, danke, Felix! Das ist sehr lieb von dir.Oh, thanks, Felix! That is very kind of you.
- FelixIch hoffe, es gefällt dir.I hope you like it.
- LauraEs ist wunderschön, danke!It is beautiful, thanks!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries das, dich, für, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
