German Phrase
Wie lang wird das Interview dauern?
Meaning
The sentence asks for the expected length of an interview. It uses the future tense to inquire about a time span that has not yet occurred, and it is a polite, neutral way to request that information.
When to use
Use this question when you have a scheduled interview (job, media, research) and need to plan your day or prepare mentally. It works in both formal and informal settings, though in very formal contexts you might replace "Interview" with "Vorstellungsgespräch".
✦Grammar Breakdown
WielangwirddasInterviewdauern?
Wie lang vs. Wie lange
"Wie lang" asks about length (often physical), while "Wie lange" asks about duration of time. In this context, both are acceptable, but "Wie lange" is more common.
Future tense with werden + infinitive
German forms the future with the auxiliary verb "werden" + infinitive. The finite verb (wird) stays in second position, the infinitive (dauern) goes to the end.
Verb‑second (V2) word order
In main clauses the conjugated verb occupies the second slot. The question word "Wie" counts as the first element, so "wird" follows it.
Neuter noun "das Interview"
"Interview" is a neuter noun in German, therefore it takes the definite article "das".
🗨In Conversation
Wie lang wird das Interview dauern?
How long will the interview last?
Es wird etwa 45 Minuten dauern.
It will last about 45 minutes.
✕Common Mistakes
Wie lang wird das Interview?
Missing the verb "dauern" makes the sentence incomplete; you need a verb that expresses duration.
Wie lange wird das Interview?
While understandable, the sentence feels abrupt; adding "dauern" clarifies that you ask about the time span.
Wie lang wird das Interview dauern?
"Wie lang" is less common for time duration; native speakers usually say "Wie lange".
↔Alternatives
Wie lange wird das Vorstellungsgespräch dauern?
How long will the job interview last?
Wie viel Zeit nimmt das Interview in Anspruch?
How much time will the interview take?
Wie lange dauert das Interview?
How long does the interview last?
Cultural Tip
Germans value punctuality, especially in professional settings. When you ask about the interview length, you’re also showing respect for the interviewer's schedule. If the answer is shorter than expected, be prepared to adapt quickly; if it’s longer, bring a bottle of water and stay focused. In some regions (e.g., southern Germany) a slightly more formal phrasing like "Wie lange wird das Vorstellungsgespräch dauern?" is preferred.