German Phrase
Wie sind deine Rückgabebedingungen?
Meaning
This question asks a seller or service provider to explain the conditions under which a product can be returned. It is a direct way to inquire about the return policy, covering time limits, condition of the item, and any fees.
When to use
Use this sentence when you are negotiating a purchase, chatting with a shop owner, or emailing customer service about a product you might want to return. It works best in informal or semi‑formal contexts where ‘du’ is appropriate.
✦Grammar Breakdown
WiesinddeineRückgabebedingungen?
Wie (question word)
‘Wie’ asks for a description or manner, similar to ‘how’ in English.
sind (verb ‘sein’)
‘sind’ is the 2nd‑person plural present of ‘sein’; it agrees with the plural noun ‘Rückgabebedingungen’.
deine (possessive pronoun)
‘deine’ is the feminine/plural form of the informal possessive ‘dein’, matching the plural noun.
Rückgabebedingungen (compound noun)
A compound of ‘Rückgabe’ (return) + ‘Bedingungen’ (conditions); always plural, so the verb must be plural.
🗨In Conversation
Wie sind deine Rückgabebedingungen?
What are your return conditions?
Wir akzeptieren Rücksendungen innerhalb von 30 Tagen, das Produkt muss unbenutzt und in Originalverpackung sein. Die Versandkosten übernehmen wir, wenn das Produkt defekt ist.
We accept returns within 30 days, the product must be unused and in its original packaging. We cover the shipping costs if the product is defective.
✕Common Mistakes
Wie ist deine Rückgabebedingungen?
‘Rückgabebedingungen’ is plural, so the verb must be plural ‘sind’.
Wie sind dein Rückgabebedingungen?
The possessive must agree with the plural noun, so use ‘deine’, not ‘dein’.
Wie sind deine Rückgabebedingungen?
The correct compound is ‘Rückgabebedingungen’ (no extra ‘e’ after ‘Rückgabe’).
↔Alternatives
Wie lauten deine Rückgabebedingungen?
What are your return conditions?
Wie sehen deine Rückgabebedingungen aus?
How do your return conditions look?
Kannst du mir deine Rückgabebedingungen nennen?
Can you tell me your return conditions?
Cultural Tip
In German business communication the level of formality matters. If you are speaking to a company you don’t know well, switch to the formal ‘Sie’: ‘Wie sind Ihre Rückgabebedingungen?’ Using ‘du’ is fine with small shops, freelancers, or when the seller has invited you to use the informal address. Also, Germans appreciate clear, concise answers – be ready to note the exact time frame and any exceptions.