Understanding how to express “for what” in German is crucial for asking about reasons and purposes. This seemingly simple phrase requires a grasp of German grammar, including prepositions and interrogative pronouns.
Mastering this will significantly improve your ability to engage in meaningful conversations and understand complex sentence structures. This article is designed for learners of all levels, from beginners looking to expand their vocabulary to advanced students aiming to refine their grasp of German grammar.
By the end of this guide, you will be confident in using various German equivalents of “for what” in different contexts.
This article will cover the various ways to translate “for what” into German, including the common phrases and their nuances. We’ll delve into the grammatical structures behind these phrases, providing numerous examples and practical exercises to solidify your understanding.
Whether you’re asking about the reason for an action, the purpose of an object, or the motivation behind a decision, this guide will equip you with the necessary tools. Let’s embark on this linguistic journey together!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition: Understanding “For What” in German
- Structural Breakdown of “Wofür” and Other Phrases
- Types and Categories of “For What” in German
- Examples of “For What” in German
- Usage Rules for “For What” in German
- Common Mistakes When Using “For What” in German
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics: Nuances and Subtleties
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion
Definition: Understanding “For What” in German
The English phrase “for what” expresses a request for the reason, purpose, or cause of something. In German, there isn’t a single, direct translation that works in all contexts. Instead, several phrases can be used, each with its own subtle nuances. The most common translations include wofür, warum, wozu, and the informal für was.
Understanding the appropriate German equivalent requires considering the specific context of the question. Are you asking about the general reason or cause (warum)? Are you inquiring about the specific purpose or aim (wozu)? Or are you looking for a broader explanation that includes both reason and purpose (wofür)? The choice depends on what you are trying to understand. The informal für was is also possible, but it is generally avoided in formal settings.
Each of these options involves using interrogative adverbs or prepositional phrases that serve to question the motivation, reason, or intended use of something. These phrases are essential for constructing questions and understanding responses in German conversations and texts.
Mastering their usage will significantly enhance your communication skills.
Structural Breakdown of “Wofür” and Other Phrases
The German equivalents of “for what” are constructed using interrogative words and prepositions. Let’s break down the structure of each phrase:
- Wofür: This is a combination of the interrogative adverb “wo” (meaning “where” or, in this context, “what”) and the preposition “für” (meaning “for”). It’s a fused form, commonly used in questions about the reason or purpose of something.
- Warum: This is a simple interrogative adverb that directly translates to “why”. While not a direct translation of “for what,” it is frequently used to ask about the reason behind an action or situation.
- Wozu: This combines “wo” with the preposition “zu” (meaning “to” or “for” in certain contexts). Wozu specifically asks about the purpose or intention of something, often implying a benefit or goal.
- Für was: This is a more literal translation, using the preposition “für” and the interrogative pronoun “was” (meaning “what”). It’s considered less formal than wofür and is more common in spoken German.
Understanding these structural components helps in remembering and using the correct phrase in different situations. The key is to recognize the specific nuance each phrase conveys and to choose the one that best fits the context of your question.
Types and Categories of “For What” in German
As mentioned earlier, there are several ways to say “for what” in German, each with its own specific usage. Let’s explore these options in more detail:
“Wofür”: The Most Common Translation
Wofür is arguably the most versatile and frequently used translation of “for what” in German. It encompasses both the reason and the purpose behind something. This makes it suitable for a wide range of contexts, from asking about the general cause of an event to inquiring about the intended use of an object.
The combination of “wo” and “für” creates a compact and efficient way to ask “for what?” It is grammatically correct and widely accepted in both formal and informal settings, making it a safe choice for most situations.
“Warum”: Asking “Why”
Warum translates directly to “why” in English. While it doesn’t contain the word “for,” it is often used in situations where “for what reason” would be appropriate. It is specifically used to ask about the cause or motivation behind an action or event.
Unlike wofür, which can also imply purpose, warum focuses solely on the reason or cause. It’s a straightforward and direct way to inquire about the underlying motivation.
“Wozu”: Emphasizing Purpose
Wozu is used to ask about the purpose or intention of something. It often implies a sense of benefit or usefulness. Think of it as asking “what is the use of” or “what is the point of”.
This phrase is particularly useful when questioning the value or relevance of an action or object. It suggests that the speaker is looking for a clear and justifiable purpose.
“Für was”: An Informal Alternative
Für was is a more literal translation of “for what,” using the preposition “für” and the interrogative pronoun “was.” While grammatically correct, it is generally considered less formal than wofür and is more common in spoken German.
In formal writing or speech, wofür is usually preferred. However, in casual conversations with friends or family, für was is perfectly acceptable and often used.
Examples of “For What” in German
To further illustrate the usage of these phrases, let’s look at some examples:
“Wofür” Examples
The following table provides examples of how to use “wofür” in different contexts. Note how it can be used to inquire about the purpose, reason, or beneficiary of an action.
| English | German |
|---|---|
| For what did you buy this? | Wofür hast du das gekauft? |
| For what is this money? | Wofür ist dieses Geld? |
| For what are you saving? | Wofür sparst du? |
| For what do you need this? | Wofür brauchst du das? |
| For what did he apologize? | Wofür hat er sich entschuldigt? |
| For what is this tool used? | Wofür wird dieses Werkzeug benutzt? |
| For what are these regulations? | Wofür sind diese Vorschriften? |
| For what are you preparing? | Wofür bereitest du dich vor? |
| For what is this event? | Wofür ist diese Veranstaltung? |
| For what are you fighting? | Wofür kämpfst du? |
| For what is this scholarship? | Wofür ist dieses Stipendium? |
| For what is this research project? | Wofür ist dieses Forschungsprojekt? |
| For what is this donation? | Wofür ist diese Spende? |
| For what are you training? | Wofür trainierst du? |
| For what are you studying? | Wofür studierst du? |
| For what is this award given? | Wofür wird dieser Preis verliehen? |
| For what is this campaign? | Wofür ist diese Kampagne? |
| For what are you protesting? | Wofür protestierst du? |
| For what is this organization? | Wofür ist diese Organisation? |
| For what are you advocating? | Wofür setzt du dich ein? |
| For what are you sacrificing? | Wofür opferst du dich? |
| For what are you striving? | Wofür strebst du? |
| For what is this building? | Wofür ist dieses Gebäude? |
| For what are you hoping? | Wofür hoffst du? |
| For what are you working so hard? | Wofür arbeitest du so hart? |
As you can see, “wofür” is incredibly versatile. It can be used with a wide range of verbs and prepositions to inquire about different kinds of purposes and reasons.
“Warum” Examples
The following table provides examples of how to use “warum” to ask “why”. Note that “warum” is used to ask about the cause or reason behind something.
| English | German |
|---|---|
| Why are you sad? | Warum bist du traurig? |
| Why did you do that? | Warum hast du das gemacht? |
| Why are you late? | Warum bist du zu spät? |
| Why is the sky blue? | Warum ist der Himmel blau? |
| Why did he leave? | Warum ist er gegangen? |
| Why is she crying? | Warum weint sie? |
| Why are you laughing? | Warum lachst du? |
| Why is it so cold? | Warum ist es so kalt? |
| Why are you so quiet? | Warum bist du so leise? |
| Why is the door closed? | Warum ist die Tür geschlossen? |
| Why are you asking? | Warum fragst du? |
| Why are you worried? | Warum bist du besorgt? |
| Why are you angry? | Warum bist du wütend? |
| Why are you smiling? | Warum lächelst du? |
| Why are you so happy? | Warum bist du so glücklich? |
| Why are you helping me? | Warum hilfst du mir? |
| Why are you so tired? | Warum bist du so müde? |
| Why are you studying German? | Warum lernst du Deutsch? |
| Why are you eating so much? | Warum isst du so viel? |
| Why are you drinking coffee? | Warum trinkst du Kaffee? |
| Why are you running? | Warum rennst du? |
| Why are you hiding? | Warum versteckst du dich? |
| Why are you singing? | Warum singst du? |
| Why are you dancing? | Warum tanzt du? |
| Why are you dreaming? | Warum träumst du? |
As demonstrated, “warum” is a direct and simple way to ask for the reason behind something. It’s a fundamental question word in German.
“Wozu” Examples
The following table provides examples of how to use “wozu” to ask about the purpose or intention of something. “Wozu” often implies a sense of usefulness or benefit.
| English | German |
|---|---|
| What’s the point of this exercise? | Wozu dient diese Übung? |
| What’s the use of complaining? | Wozu sich beschweren? |
| What’s the purpose of this meeting? | Wozu ist dieses Treffen? |
| What’s the good of having money if you’re not happy? | Wozu Geld haben, wenn man nicht glücklich ist? |
| What’s the point of studying if you don’t apply the knowledge? | Wozu studieren, wenn man das Wissen nicht anwendet? |
| What’s the use of worrying? | Wozu sich Sorgen machen? |
| What’s the purpose of this law? | Wozu dient dieses Gesetz? |
| What’s the point of arguing? | Wozu streiten? |
| What’s the use of crying over spilled milk? | Wozu über verschüttete Milch weinen? |
| What’s the purpose of this invention? | Wozu dient diese Erfindung? |
| What’s the use of lying? | Wozu lügen? |
| What’s the point of living if you don’t have dreams? | Wozu leben, wenn man keine Träume hat? |
| What’s the purpose of this project? | Wozu dient dieses Projekt? |
| What’s the good of being rich if you’re lonely? | Wozu reich sein, wenn man einsam ist? |
| What’s the point of trying if you’re going to fail? | Wozu versuchen, wenn man scheitern wird? |
| What’s the use of having power if you don’t use it for good? | Wozu Macht haben, wenn man sie nicht zum Guten einsetzt? |
| What’s the purpose of this ritual? | Wozu dient dieses Ritual? |
| What’s the point of saving money if you never spend it? | Wozu Geld sparen, wenn man es nie ausgibt? |
| What’s the use of complaining if you don’t do anything about it? | Wozu sich beschweren, wenn man nichts dagegen unternimmt? |
| What’s the purpose of this sacrifice? | Wozu dient dieses Opfer? |
| What’s the use of regretting the past? | Wozu die Vergangenheit bereuen? |
| What’s the point of being afraid? | Wozu Angst haben? |
| What’s the purpose of this training? | Wozu dient dieses Training? |
| What’s the good of being right if you’re alone? | Wozu Recht haben, wenn man allein ist? |
| What’s the point of this suffering? | Wozu dient dieses Leiden? |
These examples illustrate how “wozu” is used to question the purpose, usefulness, or benefit of something, often implying a sense of skepticism or questioning.
“Für was” Examples
The following table provides examples of how to use “für was” in informal contexts. Remember that “für was” is generally considered less formal than “wofür.”
| English | German |
|---|---|
| For what did you buy that? | Für was hast du das gekauft? |
| For what do you need this? | Für was brauchst du das? |
| For what are you saving? | Für was sparst du? |
| For what are you using this? | Für was benutzt du das? |
| For what are you waiting? | Für was wartest du? |
| For what did you apologize? | Für was hast du dich entschuldigt? |
| For what are you looking? | Für was suchst du? |
| For what did you spend your money? | Für was hast du dein Geld ausgegeben? |
| For what are you preparing? | Für was bereitest du dich vor? |
| For what are you fighting? | Für was kämpfst du? |
| For what are you doing that? | Für was machst du das? |
| For what are you asking? | Für was fragst du? |
| For what are you hoping? | Für was hoffst du? |
| For what are you planning? | Für was planst du? |
| For what are you studying? | Für was studierst du? |
| For what are you working so hard? | Für was arbeitest du so hart? |
| For what are you sacrificing? | Für was opferst du dich? |
| For what are you striving? | Für was strebst du? |
| For what are you training? | Für was trainierst du? |
| For what are you using this information? | Für was benutzt du diese Information? |
| For what are you collecting these stamps? | Für was sammelst du diese Briefmarken? |
| For what are you saving these photos? | Für was speicherst du diese Fotos? |
| For what are you learning this language? | Für was lernst du diese Sprache? |
| For what are you building this house? | Für was baust du dieses Haus? |
| For what are you writing this book? | Für was schreibst du dieses Buch? |
These examples demonstrate how “für was” is used in informal, everyday conversations to ask about the purpose or reason behind something. It’s a more direct and less formal alternative to “wofür.”
Usage Rules for “For What” in German
To use these phrases correctly, it’s important to understand the underlying usage rules. Here are some key considerations:
Prepositional Verbs and “Wofür”
Many German verbs are used with specific prepositions. When asking “for what” in relation to these verbs, it’s crucial to maintain the correct preposition. Wofür is often used in these cases to replace the prepositional phrase.
For example, the verb sich interessieren für (to be interested in) requires the preposition “für.” To ask “what are you interested in?” you would use Wofür interessierst du dich?. The “wo-” replaces “für + was” and maintains the correct prepositional relationship with the verb.
Case Considerations (Akkusativ vs. Dativ)
The preposition “für” usually takes the accusative case. However, when combined with “wo-” to form “wofür,” the case depends on the verb and the context of the sentence.
It’s essential to pay attention to the case governed by the verb or prepositional phrase you are using.
For example, if the verb requires a dative object, the entire phrase involving “wofür” must be adjusted accordingly. This often involves understanding the specific verb conjugations and their corresponding case requirements.
Formal vs. Informal Usage
As previously mentioned, wofür is generally considered more formal than für was. In formal writing, presentations, or conversations with people you don’t know well, wofür is the preferred choice.
Für was is perfectly acceptable in informal settings, such as conversations with friends, family, or close colleagues. However, it’s best to avoid it in formal situations to maintain a professional tone.
Common Mistakes When Using “For What” in German
Here are some common mistakes that learners make when using “for what” in German, along with corrections:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Wofür hast du das? | “Warum” means “why,” not “for what.” | |
| Wofür hast du das gekauft? | “Wozu” implies purpose, while “wofür” is more general. | |
| Wofür machst du das in formellen Situationen? | “Für was” is informal; use “wofür” in formal contexts. | |
| Wofür ist das? / Warum? | Both can be correct depending on the nuance. “Wofür” asks about the general purpose, while “warum” asks about the reason. Using both together is redundant. | |
| Wofür brauchst du das? | The sentence needs an object (das) to be grammatically correct. | |
| Wofür brauchst du das? Ich weiß nicht. | If you are asking about the intended use or purpose, “wofür” is more appropriate. “Warum” would ask *why* you need it, focusing on the reason. | |
| Wozu ist dieses Treffen? | When asking about the *purpose* use “wozu”. The original sentence is also grammatically awkward. | |
| Wofür interessierst du dich? | When using prepositional verbs, combine “wo” with the preposition. | |
| Wofür kaufst du das? | “Wozu” is less common when simply asking about the reason for a purchase. | |
| Wofür ist das Geld? | To ask about the intended use of the money, “wofür” is correct. |
By paying attention to these common mistakes and their corrections, you can avoid errors and improve your accuracy when using “for what” in German.
Practice Exercises
Now, let’s put your knowledge to the test with some practice exercises:
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the correct German equivalent of “for what”: wofür, warum, or wozu.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| _________ lernst du Deutsch? | Wofür/Warum |
| _________ ist diese Übung gut? | Wozu |
| _________ hast du das gesagt? | Warum |
| _________ brauchst du das Geld? | Wofür |
| _________ weinst du? | Warum |
| _________ dient diese Maschine? | Wozu |
| _________ sparst du? | Wofür |
| _________ bist du so traurig? | Warum |
| _________ ist das gut? | Wozu |
| _________ interessierst du dich? | Wofür |
Answers: 1. Wofür/Warum, 2.
Wozu, 3. Warum, 4.
Wofür, 5. Warum, 6.
Wozu, 7. Wofür, 8.
Warum, 9. Wozu, 10.
Wofür
Exercise 2: Translation Practice
Translate the following English sentences into German, using the appropriate equivalent of “for what.”
| English | German |
|---|---|
| For what are you preparing? | Wofür bereitest du dich vor? |
| Why are you so happy? | Warum bist du so glücklich? |
| What’s the point of arguing? | Wozu streiten? |
| For what did you apologize? | Wofür hast du dich entschuldigt? |
| Why are you laughing? | Warum lachst du? |
| What’s the use of worrying? | Wozu sich Sorgen machen? |
| For what are you looking? | Wofür suchst du? |
| Why are you so late? | Warum bist du zu spät? |
| What’s the purpose of this meeting? | Wozu ist dieses Treffen? |
| For what are you fighting? | Wofür kämpfst du? |
Exercise 3: Sentence Construction
Create a German sentence using each of the following phrases: wofür, warum, wozu, and für was (in an informal context).
| Phrase | Sentence |
|---|---|
| Wofür | Wofür brauchst du diesen Hammer? (For what do you need this hammer?) |
| Warum | Warum bist du so müde heute? (Why are you so tired today?) |
| Wozu | Wozu dient diese alte Maschine? (What purpose does this old machine serve?) |
| Für was | Für was hast du das denn gekauft? (So, what did you buy that for?) |
These exercises will help you practice and solidify your understanding of the different ways to say “for what” in German.
Advanced Topics: Nuances and Subtleties
For advanced learners, understanding the nuances and subtleties of using “for what” in German can further refine their language skills:
“For What” in Indirect Questions
In indirect questions, the word order changes. The interrogative word (wofür, warum, wozu) comes after the introductory phrase. For example:
- Direct: Wofür brauchst du das? (For what do you need that?)
- Indirect: Ich möchte wissen, wofür du das brauchst. (I would like to know for what you need that.)
Note that the verb moves to the end of the clause in the indirect question.
Alternative Phrasing for Emphasis
Depending on the context, you can use alternative phrasing to emphasize certain aspects of the question. For example, instead of directly asking “wofür,” you could use a more descriptive phrase like “Welchen Zweck hat…?” (What purpose does… have?).
This allows you to tailor your question to the specific situation and convey a more nuanced meaning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some frequently asked questions about using “for what” in German:
- Is “für was” always informal?
Yes, “für was” is generally considered informal. While grammatically correct, it is best used in casual conversations with friends and family. In formal settings, “wofür” is the preferred choice. - Can I always use “wofür” instead of “warum”?
No, “wofür” and “warum” are not interchangeable in all situations. “Warum” specifically asks about the reason or cause, while “wofür” can encompass both reason and purpose. Choose the word that best fits the context of your question. - How do I know when to use “wozu”?
Use “wozu” when you want to emphasize the purpose or intention of something. It often implies a sense of benefit or usefulness. Think of it as asking “what is the point of” or “what is the use of.” - What if I’m unsure which phrase to use?
If you’re unsure, “wofür” is generally a safe choice, as it is the most versatile and widely accepted translation of “for what.” However, paying attention to the specific context and nuance of your question will help you choose the most appropriate phrase.