German Phrase
Klar, was willst du?
Meaning
Literally “Sure, what do you want?” It’s a casual way to acknowledge something and then ask the other person what they would like or need. The tone is friendly and informal, often used among peers.
When to use
Use this phrase in informal conversations when you want to confirm you’re listening or agree, and then ask the other person what they’d like. It works well after a suggestion, an invitation, or when someone asks for your opinion.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Klar,waswillstdu?
Klar (interjection)
Used informally to mean “sure”, “of course”, or “obviously”. It’s a short, friendly way to agree before a question.
Wh‑question word order (V2)
In German wh‑questions, the interrogative word (was) occupies the first position, the verb (willst) the second, and the subject (du) follows.
Verb ‘wollen’
‘Willst’ is the 2nd‑person singular present of ‘wollen’ (to want). It asks about the listener’s desire.
Pronoun ‘du’
The informal singular pronoun, used with friends, family, or peers.
🗨In Conversation
Wir gehen heute Abend essen. Bist du dabei?
We’re going out to eat tonight. Are you in?
Klar, was willst du?
Sure, what do you want?
✕Common Mistakes
Was du willst?
In a wh‑question the verb must stay in second position after the question word; do not place the subject before the verb.
Klar, was wollen Sie?
‘Klar’ is informal; using it with ‘Sie’ (formal you) sounds rude.
Klar, was willst du.
Don’t omit the question mark; without it the sentence becomes a statement.
↔Alternatives
Na klar, was möchtest du?
Of course, what would you like?
Klar, was brauchst du?
Sure, what do you need?
Ja, was willst du denn?
Yes, what do you want then?
Cultural Tip
‘Klar’ is very informal; avoid it in business meetings or when speaking to strangers you’d address with ‘Sie’. In some regions (especially northern Germany) speakers may add ‘na’ – ‘Na klar’ – for extra emphasis. The phrase can sound a bit abrupt if the tone isn’t friendly, so pair it with a smile or a warm intonation.