German Phrase
Was sind deine wichtigsten Ziele?
Meaning
This phrase is used to inquire about a person's primary objectives or priorities. It uses the superlative 'wichtigsten' to specify that you are asking about their top-tier goals rather than just any general plans.
When to use
You can use this in professional settings like job interviews or performance reviews, as well as in deep personal conversations with friends. It is a great icebreaker for networking or discussing long-term aspirations.
✦Grammar Breakdown
WassinddeinewichtigstenZiele
Was sind
Uses the plural form of the verb 'sein' (to be) because it refers to multiple goals (Ziele).
wichtigsten
This is the superlative form of 'wichtig' (important), with the '-en' ending for a plural noun in the nominative case.
Ziele
The plural form of 'das Ziel' (the goal). Note that nouns are always capitalized in German.
🗨In Conversation
Was sind deine wichtigsten Ziele für dieses Jahr?
What are your most important goals for this year?
Ich möchte endlich fließend Deutsch sprechen können.
I want to finally be able to speak German fluently.
✕Common Mistakes
Was ist deine wichtigsten Ziele?
The verb must be plural 'sind' to agree with the plural subject 'Ziele'.
Was sind deine wichtig Ziele?
Adjectives must take the correct ending; here the superlative 'wichtigsten' is required for 'most important'.
↔Alternatives
Was möchtest du erreichen?
What do you want to achieve?
Was sind deine Pläne?
What are your plans?
Cultural Tip
In Germany, discussing goals is often approached with a high degree of sincerity and directness. While it is common in professional development, asking this in a casual setting signals a desire for a deeper, more meaningful conversation rather than small talk.