German Phrase
Was kostet's für Kinder?
Meaning
Literally, 'What does it cost for children?' It is a quick way to ask the price of a ticket, meal, or service when children are involved. The contraction ’s makes the question sound informal and natural.
When to use
Use this phrase at museums, public transport stations, restaurants, or any place that offers a reduced price for kids. It works best in casual conversation with staff or locals, especially when you’re traveling with a family.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Waskostet'sfürKinder?
Was (interrogative pronoun)
Used to ask 'what' in a question; it triggers verb‑first word order.
kosten (verb)
Means 'to cost'. In present tense third‑person singular it is 'kostet'.
's (contraction of es)
Colloquial shortening of 'es' after a verb; common in spoken German.
für (preposition)
Means 'for' and governs the accusative case; here it introduces the beneficiary.
Kinder (plural noun)
The plural of 'Kind' (child). No article is needed after 'für' when speaking generally.
🗨In Conversation
Was kostet's für Kinder?
How much does it cost for children?
Für Kinder ist das Ticket 5 Euro.
For children the ticket is 5 euros.
✕Common Mistakes
Was kostet's für Kind?
After 'für' you need the plural when you mean children in general.
Was kostet es für Kinder?
While grammatically correct, using the full form can sound overly formal in casual settings; the contraction ’s is more natural.
Was kostet's Kinder?
Missing the preposition 'für' which indicates who the price is for.
↔Alternatives
Wie viel kostet das für Kinder?
How much does that cost for children?
Was kostet es für Kinder?
What does it cost for children?
Wie viel kostet es für Kinder?
How much does it cost for children?
Cultural Tip
In Germany many attractions have a "Kinderermäßigung" (children’s discount) that applies up to a certain age, usually 14 – 16. When you ask the price, using the informal contraction ’s signals you’re comfortable with the speaker; in more formal settings (e.g., a hotel desk) you might prefer the full form "Was kostet es für Kinder?". Also, remember that prices are always quoted in euros, and taxes are included in the listed price.