Greetings German language enthusiasts! In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the different ways to say “What is this?” in German. Whether you want to ask this question formally or informally, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “What is This?”
In formal situations, it’s important to use polite language. Germans appreciate courtesy, so here are some polite ways to ask “What is this?” in German:
- Was ist das hier? – This is the most common way to ask “What is this?” in a formal context. It translates directly to “What is this here?” and is widely understood throughout Germany.
- Was ist das bitte? – Adding “bitte” (please) at the end of the question makes it even more polite. It translates to “What is this, please?” and is suitable for formal situations where you want to convey respect.
When you use these phrases, remember to maintain a respectful tone and use them with individuals who hold higher positions or those you are not familiar with.
Informal Ways to Say “What is This?”
Conversely, in casual or informal settings, you can use a more relaxed tone to ask “What is this?” Here are a couple of informal ways to do so:
- Was ist das? – This direct and straightforward phrase is commonly used among friends, family, or peers. It literally means “What is this?” and is suitable for informal contexts.
- Was ist das hier? – Although this phrase can also be used formally, it works well in informal situations when you want to draw attention to the object while casually asking “What is this?”
Remember that using informal language is appropriate only with people you are familiar with and in less formal environments. Always be aware of the context and choose your wording accordingly.
Examples
In order to better understand the usage of the phrases above, let’s dive into some examples:
Formal Example:
Person A: Entschuldigen Sie, was ist das hier?
Person B: Das ist ein Buch.This conversation reflects a formal situation where Person A politely asks Person B for information about an object, and Person B kindly responds by identifying it as a book.
Informal Example:
Person A: He, was ist das?
Person B: Das ist ein Kugelschreiber.In this instance, the conversation takes place in an informal setting where Person A casually asks what an object is, and Person B responds with the identification, indicating that it is a pen.
Remember, practice makes perfect! The more you integrate these phrases into your conversations, the easier it will become to ask “What is this?” in German.
Regional Variations
Germany itself has several regional varieties of German, but the differences are primarily in pronunciation and vocabulary rather than fundamental alterations in the language structure. Therefore, when asking “What is this?” across Germany, the formal and informal phrases mentioned above will generally be understood everywhere.
However, it’s worth noting that certain regional variations exist in the choice of words or expressions. For example, in Bavaria, “Was ist das da?” is sometimes used instead of “Was ist das hier?” The meaning is the same, but the emphasis on “da” (there) instead of “hier” (here) subtly reflects regional linguistic preferences.
Ultimately, mastering the formal and informal ways to ask “What is this?” in German will serve you well regardless of the region you find yourself in.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve reached the end of our comprehensive guide on how to say “What is this?” in German. You’ve learned the formal and informal ways to ask this question, been provided with helpful examples, and even explored regional variations.
Now, armed with this knowledge, go forth and confidently ask “What is this?” in German. Expand your vocabulary, engage in conversations, and immerse yourself in the wonderful world of the German language. Viel Erfolg!
