German Phrase
Ja, das ist zu groß fürs Handgepäck.
Meaning
This phrase is used to confirm that an item exceeds the size limits for carry-on luggage. It directly translates to 'Yes, that is too big for the hand luggage.' It's a common statement made when discussing travel restrictions or baggage allowances.
When to use
You would typically use this phrase at an airport, when checking in, at the gate, or even when shopping for luggage. It's perfect for situations where you need to state that an item cannot be taken into the airplane cabin due to its size.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Ja,dasistzugroßfürsHandgepäck.
Ja
'Ja' simply means 'yes' and is a common affirmative response in German. It's often used at the beginning of a sentence to confirm a previous statement or question.
das ist
'Das ist' means 'that is' or 'it is'. 'Das' is a demonstrative pronoun referring to the item in question, and 'ist' is the third-person singular form of the verb 'sein' (to be).
zu groß
'Zu' means 'too' when followed by an adjective, indicating an excessive degree. 'Groß' means 'big' or 'large'. So, 'zu groß' means 'too big'.
fürs Handgepäck
'Fürs' is a contraction of 'für das', meaning 'for the'. 'Für' is a preposition that always takes the accusative case. 'Handgepäck' (carry-on luggage) is a neuter noun, hence 'das Handgepäck' in the accusative.
🗨In Conversation
Entschuldigen Sie, ist dieser Koffer als Handgepäck erlaubt?
Excuse me, is this suitcase allowed as carry-on luggage?
Ja, das ist zu groß fürs Handgepäck. Sie müssen es aufgeben.
Yes, that's too big for carry-on luggage. You have to check it in.
✕Common Mistakes
Ja, das ist zu groß für das Handgepäck.
While 'für das' is grammatically correct, 'fürs' is a common and natural contraction of 'für das' in spoken German, especially in such contexts. Using 'für das' isn't strictly wrong but sounds less natural.
Ja, das ist zu groß zu Handgepäck.
The preposition 'zu' (to/at) is incorrect here. 'Für' (for) is required to indicate suitability or purpose.
Ja, das ist zu groß für Handgepäck.
Handgepäck is a neuter noun and requires an article. While 'für Handgepäck' might be understood, 'fürs Handgepäck' (for the hand luggage) is more precise and natural, implying 'for the specific hand luggage allowance'.
↔Alternatives
Das ist zu groß.
That's too big.
Das passt nicht ins Handgepäck.
That doesn't fit into the carry-on luggage.
Das muss ins Aufgabegepäck.
That has to go into checked luggage.
Cultural Tip
Germans are generally quite direct and adhere strictly to rules, especially in public spaces like airports. When discussing luggage dimensions, expect clear and unambiguous statements like this phrase. There's little room for negotiation when it comes to airline regulations, so understanding and using such phrases correctly can help you navigate travel situations smoothly.