How to Say ‘What can I get you?’ in German
Was darf es sein?
vahs darf ess zine
[vahs darf ess zine]
💬 Usage Tip: A super common service phrase. Literally: What may it be? Natural English: What can I get you?
🇩🇪 In Germany: You'll hear this in bars, bakeries, butchers, and market stalls too. It's a very German all-purpose ordering phrase.
Phrase Breakdown
Was
[vahs]
what
Question word used here to ask what the customer wants.
Im Café fragt man: Was darf es sein?
In the café one asks: What can I get you?
darf
[darf]
may / can
Polite helping verb in this service phrase.
Im Café fragt man: Was darf es sein?
In the café one asks: What can I get you?
es
[ess]
it
Pronoun in the idiomatic question 'Was darf es sein?'
Im Café fragt man: Was darf es sein?
In the café one asks: What can I get you?
sein
[zine]
be
Verb meaning 'be' in this fixed polite expression.
Im Café fragt man: Was darf es sein?
In the café one asks: What can I get you?
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Berlin bureaucracy requires real German. This app got me from zero to handling my Anmeldung appointment in three weeks. My coworkers couldn’t believe it.”
Emma L., 27, UX Researcher
“Relocated to Munich with my family. The everyday scenarios — grocery shopping, doctor visits, school meetings — are exactly what we needed to settle in.”
Marcus J., 40, Engineer
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager