German Phrase
Was ist mit meinem Handschlag?
Meaning
Literally, 'What about my handshake?' It is used to ask for feedback on the way you shook someone's hand, often after a meeting or interview.
When to use
Use this sentence when you want to know whether your handshake was perceived as firm, friendly, or appropriate, especially in a professional or social setting where first impressions matter.
✦Grammar Breakdown
WasistmitmeinemHandschlag?
Was (interrogative pronoun)
Used to ask about something unknown; here it starts a yes‑no question.
ist (sein, 3rd person singular)
The present tense of 'sein' used as a copula linking the subject 'Was' with the prepositional phrase.
mit (preposition)
Requires the dative case; introduces the object of concern.
meinem (possessive article, dative masculine)
Dative form of 'mein' matching the masculine noun 'Handschlag'.
Handschlag (noun, masculine)
Means 'handshake'; in dative it stays 'Handschlag' because masculine nouns have no ending in dative singular.
🗨In Conversation
Was ist mit meinem Handschlag?
What about my handshake?
Er war fest und freundlich – genau richtig für das Vorstellungsgespräch.
It was firm and friendly – just right for the interview.
✕Common Mistakes
Was ist mit mein Handschlag?
The preposition 'mit' requires dative; the correct form is 'meinem'.
Was ist mit dem Handschlag?
If you add an article, it must agree in case: 'mit dem Handschlag' (dative).
↔Alternatives
Wie war mein Handschlag?
How was my handshake?
Wie ist mein Handschlag?
How is my handshake?
Ist mein Handschlag in Ordnung?
Is my handshake okay?
Cultural Tip
In German‑speaking countries a firm, brief handshake is the norm for business and formal introductions. A limp or overly long grip can be interpreted as lack of confidence or nervousness. Adjust the pressure to match the situation – a slightly firmer grip for a job interview, a lighter one for casual meet‑ups.