German Phrase
Wann gehst du von zu Hause los?
Meaning
This phrase is used to ask someone at what specific time they plan to depart from their residence. It employs the separable verb 'losgehen', which specifically denotes the act of starting a journey or setting off.
When to use
Use this phrase when coordinating plans with friends, family, or colleagues to estimate their arrival time. It is a common question in daily life when preparing for social gatherings or shared commutes.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Wanngehstduvonzu Hauselos
Separable Verb (losgehen)
The verb 'losgehen' is separable. In a main clause or question, the prefix 'los' is placed at the end of the sentence.
von zu Hause
This is a fixed prepositional phrase. 'Zu Hause' means 'at home', and 'von' indicates the direction 'from'.
🗨In Conversation
Wann gehst du von zu Hause los?
When do you leave home?
Ich gehe in etwa fünf Minuten los.
I am leaving in about five minutes.
✕Common Mistakes
Wann gehst du von Hause?
The idiomatic expression for 'from home' in German is 'von zu Hause'; omitting 'zu' sounds unnatural.
Wann losgehst du von zu Hause?
'Losgehen' is a separable verb; in a question, the prefix 'los' must move to the very end of the sentence.
↔Alternatives
Wann brichst du auf?
When are you setting off?
Wann verlässt du das Haus?
When are you leaving the house?
Cultural Tip
Germans are known for their punctuality and precise planning. Asking for the exact time someone leaves their home is a standard part of social coordination to ensure everyone arrives on time for an appointment.