German Phrase
Bis wann muss ich zusagen?
Meaning
The speaker is asking for the latest possible date or time by which they need to give a confirmation, such as an RSVP, a job interview acceptance, or a reservation.
When to use
Use this question when you have been invited to an event, offered a job, or booked a service and you need to know the deadline for confirming your participation or acceptance.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Biswannmussichzusagen?
Temporal phrase "Bis wann"
"Bis wann" asks for a deadline or the latest point in time something should happen.
Modal verb position
In German questions the modal verb (muss) comes before the subject (ich) and the infinitive follows at the end.
Separable verb "zusagen"
"zu" is a separable prefix; in main clauses the prefix moves to the end (… muss ich zusagen).
Verb‑infinitive order
After a modal verb the infinitive stays at the sentence end, even when the verb is separable.
🗨In Conversation
Bis wann muss ich zusagen?
By when do I have to confirm?
Du hast bis zum 15. Mai Zeit, uns Bescheid zu geben.
You have until May 15th to let us know.
✕Common Mistakes
Bis wann muss ich zu sagen?
"zu sagen" is not the correct separable form; the verb is "zusagen" and the prefix moves to the end in the main clause.
Bis wann müssen ich zusagen?
The modal verb must stay in its conjugated form (muss) and not be used as infinitive after "bis wann".
Bis wann muss ich zu zusagen?
Adding an extra "zu" before the infinitive is redundant; the separable prefix already contains "zu".
↔Alternatives
Bis wann soll ich zusagen?
By when should I confirm?
Wie lange habe ich Zeit, um zuzusagen?
How long do I have to confirm?
Bis wann muss ich meine Zusage geben?
By when must I give my acceptance?
Cultural Tip
In German‑speaking countries punctuality and prompt communication are highly valued. If you receive an invitation, replying by the stated deadline (or even a bit earlier) shows respect. Ignoring the deadline can be seen as rude or unprofessional, especially for business appointments or formal events.