German Phrase
Ist dir das Frühstück wichtig?
Meaning
This phrase literally translates to "Is the breakfast important to you?" It's a common way to ask someone about the personal significance or value they place on breakfast. It implies a personal connection to the subject, using the dative pronoun "dir" (to you).
When to use
You can use this phrase in casual conversations when getting to know someone, discussing daily routines, or talking about food preferences. It's a friendly and direct way to inquire about someone's habits or priorities regarding the first meal of the day.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Istdirdas Frühstückwichtig?
Ist (sein)
'Ist' is the third-person singular conjugation of the verb 'sein' (to be). In questions, the conjugated verb typically comes first.
dir (dative pronoun)
'Dir' is the dative form of 'du' (you). The phrase 'wichtig sein' (to be important) requires the dative case for the person to whom something is important.
das Frühstück (noun)
'Das Frühstück' means 'the breakfast'. 'Das' is the definite article for neuter nouns in the nominative and accusative cases. Here, it's the subject of the sentence (nominative).
wichtig (adjective)
'Wichtig' means 'important'. It functions as a predicate adjective here, describing the subject 'das Frühstück'.
🗨In Conversation
Guten Morgen! Hast du schon gefrühstückt?
Good morning! Have you had breakfast yet?
Ja, klar! Ist dir das Frühstück wichtig?
Yes, of course! Is breakfast important to you?
✕Common Mistakes
Ist du das Frühstück wichtig?
The verb 'wichtig sein' (to be important) requires the dative case for the person to whom something is important. 'Du' is nominative, 'dir' is dative.
Ist das Frühstück wichtig für dich?
While grammatically correct, 'Ist dir das Frühstück wichtig?' is more idiomatic and natural in German. 'Für dich' is often used for things that are important *on behalf of* someone, rather than *to* someone personally.
Das Frühstück ist dir wichtig?
This is a statement, not a question. To form a question, the conjugated verb ('ist') must come first.
↔Alternatives
Findest du Frühstück wichtig?
Do you find breakfast important?
Legst du Wert auf Frühstück?
Do you value breakfast?
Ist Frühstück für dich wichtig?
Is breakfast important for you?
Cultural Tip
In Germany, breakfast (Frühstück) is often considered a significant meal, especially on weekends. A typical German breakfast can range from a simple bread roll with cheese or cold cuts to a more elaborate spread with eggs, jams, and coffee. Asking about its importance can open up conversations about daily routines and food culture, which are often central to German social life.