❓🙂

How to Say ‘What would you like?’ in German

Was darf's sein?

vahss darfs zyne

[vahss darfs zyne]

💬 Usage Tip: darf's is short for darf es. Word for word it's "what may it be?"

🇩🇪 In Germany: This is the classic line from staff at a counter, bakery or market stall. Just answer with your order.

Phrase Breakdown

Was

[vahss]

What

An interrogative word used for asking questions.

Example

Was möchtest du trinken?

What would you like to drink?

darf's

[darfs]

may it

Short for 'darf es'; 'darf' means 'may', used in the polite service phrase 'what may it be?'

Example

Was darf's denn heute sein?

What will it be today?

sein

[zyne]

Exist; occur; take place.

Example

Es ist schön, hier zu sein.

It's nice to be here.

Guides for German learners

Duolingo vs Pimsleur: Tapping on a Screen or Talking Out Loud?Duolingo vs Pimsleur: five minutes of tapping versus thirty minutes of speaking. What each is good at, what each costs, and which to pick for your goal.

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 feedback on what you say out loud

Spaced Repetition

Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice

Immersive Roleplaying

Practice real conversations with AI partners

Lessons for Your Situation

Request lessons tailored to your specific needs

Get Full Lesson

What 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

“Learning a language has never been as immediately impactful. Now I can charm the locals and navigate the food scene like a boss.”

Alex M., 42, Software Engineer