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German Phrase

Ich suche was Leichtes.

/ɪç ˈzuːxə vas ˈlaɪçtəs/
Meaning"I'm looking for something light."
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Meaning

This phrase literally translates to 'I am looking for something light.' The word 'was' is a common colloquial abbreviation for 'etwas' (something). It's a versatile expression used when you want something that isn't heavy, complicated, or demanding.

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When to use

You can use this phrase in various situations: when ordering food (e.g., a light meal), when choosing a book or movie (e.g., something easy to read/watch), or when looking for a task that isn't too challenging. It implies a preference for simplicity or ease.

✦Grammar Breakdown

IchsuchewasLeichtes

1

Ich

'Ich' is the first-person singular pronoun, meaning 'I'. It is always capitalized at the beginning of a sentence.

2

suche

'Suche' is the first-person singular conjugation of the verb 'suchen' (to look for). It's a regular verb.

3

was

'Was' is a colloquial short form of 'etwas' (something). It's very common in spoken German and makes the sentence sound more natural and less formal.

4

Leichtes

'Leichtes' is the adjective 'leicht' (light, easy) used as a noun. When an adjective follows 'etwas' or 'was' and refers to an unspecified thing, it is capitalized and takes the strong declension ending '-es' for neuter singular.

🗨In Conversation

A

Was möchtest du heute Abend essen?

What would you like to eat tonight?

Ich suche was Leichtes.

I'm looking for something light.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Ich suche etwas leicht.

    When 'etwas' or 'was' is followed by an adjective used as a noun, the adjective must be capitalized and take the strong declension ending '-es' for neuter singular.

  • Ich suche nach was Leichtes.

    While 'suchen nach' exists, 'suchen' alone is more common and natural when generally 'looking for' something, especially in this context.

↔Alternatives

  • Ich suche etwas Leichtes.

    I'm looking for something light.

  • Ich hätte gerne etwas Leichtes.

    I would like something light.

  • Ich brauche etwas Einfaches.

    I need something simple/easy.

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Cultural Tip

The use of 'was' instead of 'etwas' is very common in spoken German and makes the phrase sound more natural and less formal. Germans often appreciate directness in communication, and this phrase is a straightforward way to express a preference for something light, whether it's a meal, a task, or entertainment. It's widely understood and used across different regions.