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German Phrase

Wie viel Gewicht ist erlaubt?

/viː ˈfiːl ˈɡeːvɪçt ɪst ɛɐ̯ˈlaʊ̯pt/
Meaning"How much weight is allowed?"
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Meaning

This question asks for the maximum amount of weight that is permitted in a given situation, such as luggage on a flight, cargo on a vehicle, or the load on an elevator.

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When to use

Use it when you need to confirm weight limits before traveling, loading a vehicle, or using equipment that has a maximum capacity. It is common at airports, train stations, shipping offices, and even gyms.

✦Grammar Breakdown

WievielGewichtisterlaubt?

1

Wie viel

The phrase 'wie viel' is used to ask about quantity or amount and is followed by a noun in the nominative case.

2

Gewicht

A neuter noun (das Gewicht) meaning 'weight'. In questions it stays in the nominative because it is the subject of the sentence.

3

ist erlaubt

The verb 'sein' + past participle 'erlaubt' forms a predicate adjective meaning 'is allowed/ permitted'.

4

Word order in yes‑no questions

German yes‑no questions place the finite verb ('ist') directly after the interrogative phrase.

🗨In Conversation

A

Wie viel Gewicht ist erlaubt?

How much weight is allowed?

Für das Handgepäck sind maximal 8 kg erlaubt.

For hand luggage, a maximum of 8 kg is allowed.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Wie viel Gewicht darf ich?

    Missing the verb 'sein' and the adjective that expresses the limit; 'darf ich' asks for permission, not the amount allowed.

  • Wie viel Gewicht ist erlaubt sein?

    Redundant infinitive; the correct construction is 'ist erlaubt' without adding 'sein'.

  • Wie viel Gewicht ist erlaubtes?

    The adjective must stay in its base form 'erlaubt' after 'sein', not inflected as a noun.

↔Alternatives

  • Wie hoch ist das zulässige Gewicht?

    What is the permissible weight?

  • Wie viel darf ich maximal mitnehmen?

    How much may I carry at most?

  • Was ist das maximale Gewicht?

    What is the maximum weight?

de

Cultural Tip

In German, 'erlaubt' and 'zulässig' are both correct, but 'zulässig' sounds more formal and is often used in official documents or signage. When asking a staff member, 'erlaubt' feels a bit more conversational. Also, Germans are very precise about limits, so be ready to give a specific number when you answer.