was zum
The German phrase was zum expresses astonishment and translates to "what the".
Meaning: expression of astonishment (intj)
Which one should you use?
While was zum Teufel is the most common way to complete this expression, you can also use was zum Henker. The latter is slightly less vulgar than using profanity but carries a similar level of intense astonishment or frustration. Alternatively, was zum Geier is an informal expression similar to 'What on earth' in English.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase was zum must be followed by a masculine or neuter noun in the dative case, such as Teufel (devil) or Henker (hangman).
Did you know?
- In some German dialects, people substitute the animal or figure for something completely random, like was zum Keks ('what the cookie'). This turns a expression of frustration into a humorous or cute remark.
- While was zum Teufel is common, some Germans use was zur Hölle, which translates to 'what the hell'. Unlike the other phrases, this version requires zur because Hölle is a feminine noun.
- The phrase was zum Henker refers to the 'hangman'. In historical contexts, it reflects a time when the executioner was a social outcast, making the reference a way to signal something truly absurd or grim.
Examples in context
- Oh, was zum Teufel.Oh, what the hell.This sentence shows how to use was zum to express shock.Tatoeba #1247422 by samueldora, translation #1183785 by Scott
- Was zum Teufel ist das?What the hell is this?This sentence uses was zum to ask a question in disbelief.Tatoeba #714632 by Esperantostern, translation #380257 by megamanenm
- Was zum Henker ist das?What the fuck is that?This sentence shows was zum used for intense astonishment.Tatoeba #1745829 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #1745828 by Spamster
- 41 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Julia and Lukas find a strange object in their garden.
- JuliaWas zum Teufel ist das hier?What the hell is this here?
- LukasIch habe keine Ahnung, Julia.I have no idea, Julia.
- JuliaWas zum Geier macht es da?What the heck is it doing there?
- LukasVielleicht gehört es dem Nachbarn.Maybe it belongs to the neighbor.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
