Learning how to ask “Who is that?” in German can be quite useful, whether you’re visiting a German-speaking country or simply trying to expand your language skills. In this guide, we will cover both formal and informal ways to ask this question, as well as provide some regional variations. Here are some useful tips and examples to help you confidently navigate this common query.
Table of Contents
Formal ways to ask “Who is that?”
When communicating in formal situations or with people you don’t know well, it’s important to use the appropriate level of politeness. Here are a few formal ways to inquire about someone’s identity:
1. Wer ist das?
This is the most basic and widely used way to ask “Who is that?” in German, and it can be used in any formal context. It’s simple, direct, and effective.
Example:
Person A: Wer ist das? (Who is that?)
Person B: Das ist Herr Müller. Er ist mein Chef. (That is Mr. Müller. He is my boss.)
2. Entschuldigen Sie, wer ist das?
If you want to add a polite touch to your question, you can start with “Entschuldigen Sie” (Excuse me) to show respect. This phrase is especially useful in formal settings or when speaking to someone in a position of authority.
Entschuldigen Sie, wer ist das?
Excuse me, who is that?
Informal ways to ask “Who is that?”
When talking to friends, family, or in casual situations, you can use more informal language. Here are a couple of ways to ask “Who is that?” informally:
1. Wer ist das?
Yes, you read it right! The same phrase used in formal situations can also be used in informal settings. However, when used informally, it sounds a bit friendlier and relaxed.
2. Wer ist denn das?
If you want to convey a stronger sense of curiosity or surprise, you can add “denn” after “Wer ist das?” This variation is commonly used while chatting with friends or expressing a genuine interest in knowing the person.
Example:
Person A: Wer ist denn das? (Who is that?)
Person B: Das ist meine Schwester. Sie ist gerade aus dem Ausland zurückgekommen. (That is my sister. She just came back from abroad.)
Regional Variations
German is spoken across various regions, and while the standard language is understood everywhere, there can be some minor regional differences in everyday speech. Here are a couple of notable variations:
1. Wer ist dat? (Northern Germany)
In northern Germany, especially in regions like Hamburg and Bremen, you may come across people asking “Wer ist dat?” instead of “Wer ist das?” This variation is specific to the regional dialect and adds a touch of familiarity to the question.
2. Wer is’n det? (Berlin and surroundings)
If you find yourself in Berlin or its surrounding areas, locals may ask “Wer is’n det?” to mean “Who is that?” The abbreviation “det” replaces the standard “das” and is commonly used in the local dialect to sound more colloquial.
Tips for Practicing
Here are a few tips to help you master the pronunciation and usage of these phrases:
- Practice pronunciation by listening to recordings of native German speakers or using language learning apps.
- Try to incorporate these phrases into your daily conversations with German-speaking friends or language exchange partners.
- Watch German movies, TV shows, or YouTube videos to improve your comprehension and get a feel for how the language is spoken.
Conclusion
Knowing how to ask “Who is that?” in German is a valuable skill in various situations, whether you aim to navigate formal interactions or engage in casual conversations. By following the examples, variations, and practicing the pronunciation, you’ll soon be able to confidently use these phrases like a native German speaker. Happy learning!
