Guten Tag! Are you curious about how to say “What is that?” in German? Whether you want to express your curiosity in a formal or informal setting, we’ve got you covered. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide you with various ways to ask “What is that?” in German, along with tips, examples, and even regional variations. So, let’s dive in and broaden your German vocabulary!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Ask “What is That?” in German
When stuck in a more formal situation, it’s important to address people using appropriate respect. Here are a few formal ways to ask “What is that?” in German:
1. Was ist das?
If you’re unsure about the object you’re referring to, “Was ist das?” (pronounced: vahs ist dahs) is the most straightforward way to ask “What is that?” in German. This phrase can be used in both professional or academic settings.
Example:
Person A: “Das ist ein Kunstwerk.” (That is an artwork.)
Person B: “Was ist das?” (What is that?)
Person A: “Das ist ein Gemälde.” (That is a painting.)
2. Könnten Sie mir sagen, was das ist?
If you want to be more polite and emphasize respect, you can use the phrase “Könnten Sie mir sagen, was das ist?” (pronounced: kurn-ten zee meer zahgen, vahs dahs ist). This form is particularly useful when engaging with individuals who are older or occupy higher positions.
Example:
Person A: “Hier ist das Kunstwerk, über das wir gesprochen haben.” (Here is the artwork we were talking about.)
Person B: “Könnten Sie mir sagen, was das ist?” (Could you tell me what that is?)
Person A: “Das ist eine Skulptur von einem berühmten Künstler.” (That is a sculpture by a famous artist.)
Informal Ways to Ask “What is That?” in German
In more casual settings or when talking to friends, family, or peers, you can use these less formal variations:
1. Was ist das denn?
“Was ist das denn?” (pronounced: vahs ist das den) is a common way of asking “What is that?” in an informal setting. The addition of “denn” adds a touch of curiosity or surprise to your question.
Example:
Person A: “Ich habe ein neues Auto gekauft!” (I bought a new car!)
Person B: “Was ist das denn?” (What is that?)
Person A: “Das ist ein roter Sportwagen.” (That is a red sports car.)
2. Was ist das für ein Ding?
Another informal way to inquire about something you don’t recognize is to say “Was ist das für ein Ding?” (pronounced: vahs ist das fur iyn ding). This phrase implies a sense of curiosity and can be used among friends or in casual conversations.
Example:
Person A: “Schau mal, ich habe diesen komischen Gegenstand gefunden.” (Look, I found this strange object.)
Person B: “Was ist das für ein Ding?” (What is that?)
Person A: “Das ist eine alte Vintage-Kamera.” (That is an old vintage camera.)
Regional Variations
German is a diverse language, with regional variations in vocabulary and pronunciation. However, when it comes to the phrase “What is that?” there aren’t significant regional differences. The above-mentioned phrases can generally be used throughout the German-speaking regions without causing any confusion.
Tips for Perfecting Your Pronunciation
To enhance your German language skills, it’s essential to focus on pronunciation. Here are a few tips to help you master the pronunciation of the phrases we’ve discussed:
- Pay attention to the “das” sound in German, which is similar to the English “th” sound.
- Practice the correct stress on vowels and consonants in each word.
- Listen to native German speakers to catch the rhythm and intonation.
- Start slowly and gradually increase your speaking speed while maintaining accuracy.
- Use online resources or language learning applications to practice speaking and receive feedback on your pronunciation.
In Conclusion
Congratulations on expanding your German vocabulary! Now, you know how to say “What is that?” in both formal and informal settings. Remember to practice your pronunciation regularly and take advantage of various resources to further develop your German language skills. With time and dedication, you’ll become more confident in expressing your curiosity in German, regardless of the situation. Viel Glück (Good luck) on your language learning journey!
