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German Phrase

Wann passt es dir?

/van past ɛs diːɐ̯/
Meaning"When does it suit you?"
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Meaning

This phrase is a polite and common way to ask someone about their availability or when a particular time is convenient for them. It literally translates to "When does it fit you?" and is used to schedule meetings, appointments, or social gatherings.

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When to use

Use this phrase when you want to propose a time for an activity and want to know if that time is convenient for the other person, or when you want them to suggest a time that works for them. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though "Ihnen" would be used for formal situations.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Wannpasstesdir

1

Wann

"Wann" is an interrogative adverb meaning "when". It's used to ask about a point in time.

2

passen

The verb "passen" means "to fit" or "to suit". In this context, it's used impersonally with "es" as the subject.

3

es

"Es" is the impersonal pronoun, acting as the subject of "passen" when referring to a general situation or time.

4

dir

"Dir" is the dative form of the personal pronoun "du" (you, informal). The verb "passen" often takes a dative object to indicate who something suits.

🗨In Conversation

A

Wir müssen uns nächste Woche treffen. Wann passt es dir?

We need to meet next week. When does it suit you?

Am Dienstag Nachmittag wäre super.

Tuesday afternoon would be great.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Wann ist es gut für dich?

    "Ist es gut für dich?" is grammatically correct but less idiomatic for asking about convenience. "Passt es dir?" is the standard expression.

  • Wann passt dich?

    The verb "passen" in this context requires the impersonal pronoun "es" as the subject, and the person it suits is in the dative case ("dir").

↔Alternatives

  • Wann hast du Zeit?

    When do you have time?

  • Wann wäre es dir recht?

    When would it be alright for you?

  • Wann geht es bei dir?

    When does it work for you?

de

Cultural Tip

Germans value punctuality and clear communication regarding schedules. Asking "Wann passt es dir?" is a direct yet polite way to ascertain availability, reflecting a preference for efficiency in planning. It's common to suggest a specific time after asking this, or to offer a few options.