German Phrase
Was machst du abends?
Meaning
This phrase is a direct way to ask someone about their habitual activities or plans during the evening. The word 'abends' is an adverb meaning 'in the evenings' or 'every evening', indicating a recurring routine.
When to use
Use this question in casual conversations to learn more about a person's lifestyle or to transition into making plans. It is appropriate for friends, family, and acquaintances in an informal setting.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Wasmachstduabends?
W-Question Word
'Was' is the interrogative pronoun for 'what' and occupies the first position in the sentence.
Verb Conjugation
'Machst' is the second-person singular present tense of 'machen', matching the subject 'du'.
Temporal Adverbs
Adding an 's' to time nouns like 'Abend' turns them into adverbs meaning 'regularly at that time'.
🗨In Conversation
Was machst du abends?
What do you do in the evening?
Ich gehe meistens ins Fitnessstudio oder lese ein Buch.
I usually go to the gym or read a book.
✕Common Mistakes
Was machst du am abends?
'Abends' is an adverb and does not take a preposition. Use 'am Abend' if you want to use a noun.
Was tust du abends?
While 'tun' means 'to do', 'machen' is much more natural when asking about general activities or hobbies.
↔Alternatives
Was hast du heute Abend vor?
What are you doing this evening?
Wie sieht dein Abend normalerweise aus?
What does your evening normally look like?
Cultural Tip
In Germany, the 'Feierabend' (the time after work) is highly valued as a period of rest and personal life. Asking this question is a common way to show interest in someone's life outside of their professional responsibilities.