German Phrase
Welches Gemüse ist gut zum Grillen?
Meaning
This phrase is a direct question asking for recommendations on vegetables suitable for grilling. It's a practical question often used when planning a barbecue or a meal where grilling is involved. The word 'gut' (good) implies suitability and taste.
When to use
You would typically use this phrase when you're at a grocery store, talking to friends about barbecue plans, or looking for cooking inspiration. It's perfect for asking for advice on what vegetables to buy or prepare for a grill party.
✦Grammar Breakdown
WelchesGemüseistgutzumGrillen
Welches (which)
'Welches' is the neuter singular form of the interrogative pronoun 'welch-' (which). It agrees in gender and number with the noun it modifies, in this case, 'Gemüse' (neuter singular).
Gemüse (vegetable)
'Gemüse' is a neuter noun in German, meaning 'vegetable' or 'vegetables' (it's often used as a collective noun, so the singular form can refer to multiple items). Its plural form is also 'Gemüse'.
ist (is)
'Ist' is the third-person singular form of the verb 'sein' (to be). It agrees with the singular subject 'Welches Gemüse'.
gut (good)
'Gut' is an adjective meaning 'good'. Here, it describes the quality or suitability of the vegetables for grilling.
zum (for the / for)
'Zum' is a contraction of 'zu dem' (to the). It's often used with nominalized infinitives (like 'Grillen') to express purpose or suitability, meaning 'for' or 'for the purpose of'.
Grillen (grilling)
'Grillen' is a nominalized infinitive, meaning it's a verb ('grillen' - to grill) used as a noun. In German, infinitives can be capitalized and used as neuter nouns, often preceded by an article or preposition like 'zum'.
🗨In Conversation
Wir machen am Wochenende ein Grillfest. Welches Gemüse ist gut zum Grillen?
We're having a barbecue this weekend. Which vegetables are good for grilling?
Paprika, Zucchini und Maiskolben sind immer eine gute Wahl!
Bell peppers, zucchini, and corn on the cob are always a good choice!
✕Common Mistakes
Welche Gemüse ist gut zum Grillen?
The word 'Gemüse' (vegetable) is neuter, so the interrogative pronoun should be 'Welches' (which), not 'Welche' (which, feminine/plural).
Welches Gemüse ist gut für Grillen?
When expressing purpose or suitability for an activity, 'zum' (zu + dem) is generally used with the gerund (nominalized infinitive) 'Grillen', meaning 'for grilling'.
↔Alternatives
Was für Gemüse eignet sich zum Grillen?
What kind of vegetables are suitable for grilling?
Welches Gemüse kann man gut grillen?
Which vegetables can one grill well?
Cultural Tip
Grilling (Grillen) is a very popular pastime in Germany, especially during summer. While sausages and meat are traditional, grilled vegetables have become increasingly common. Bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, corn on the cob, and mushrooms are favorites. Germans often marinate their vegetables before grilling for extra flavor.