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German Phrase

Ist das was für die ganze Familie?

/ɪst das vas fyːɐ̯ diː ˈɡantsə faˈmiːli̯ə/
Meaning"Is that something for the whole family?"
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Meaning

This phrase is a common way to inquire if an activity, product, or event is suitable and enjoyable for all members of a family, regardless of age. It's a direct question about inclusivity and appropriateness for a diverse group.

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When to use

You would typically use this phrase when planning an outing, choosing a movie, buying a game, or considering any activity where you need to ensure it caters to both children and adults. It's perfect for assessing family-friendliness.

✦Grammar Breakdown

IstdaswasfürdieganzeFamilie?

1

Ist (sein)

'Ist' is the third-person singular form of the verb 'sein' (to be). It's used here to form a simple question, meaning 'is'.

2

das

'Das' functions as a demonstrative pronoun here, meaning 'that' or 'it'. It refers to the activity or item being discussed.

3

was für

This is an idiomatic expression meaning 'something for' or 'what kind of for'. In this context, 'was' is a colloquial short form of 'etwas' (something).

4

die ganze Familie

'Die ganze Familie' means 'the whole family'. 'Ganze' (whole/entire) is an adjective modifying 'Familie' (family), and 'die' is the definite article for feminine nouns in the nominative case.

🗨In Conversation

A

Ich habe Tickets für den neuen Film gekauft.

I bought tickets for the new movie.

Oh, super! Ist das was für die ganze Familie?

Oh, great! Is that something for the whole family?

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Ist das gut für die ganze Familie?

    While 'gut' means 'good', 'was für' (something for) is the more natural and idiomatic way to ask about suitability in this context.

  • Ist das für die ganze Familie?

    Omitting 'was' makes the question sound less natural and slightly incomplete. 'Was für' acts as a fixed expression here.

  • Ist das etwas für die ganze Familie?

    'Etwas' is grammatically correct but 'was' is the more common and colloquial short form used in everyday speech.

↔Alternatives

  • Ist das familienfreundlich?

    Is that family-friendly?

  • Eignet sich das für die ganze Familie?

    Is that suitable for the whole family?

  • Können alle in der Familie das machen?

    Can everyone in the family do that?

de

Cultural Tip

In Germany, family activities are highly valued, and planning often involves considering everyone's interests. This phrase reflects a practical approach to ensuring collective enjoyment. Germans tend to be quite direct in their questions, and this phrase is a straightforward way to get the information needed for family planning.