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German Phrase

Welche persönlichen Ziele hast du?

/ˈvɛlçə pɛrˈzøːnlɪçn̩ ˈtsiːlə hast duː/
Meaning"What personal goals do you have?"
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Meaning

This phrase is used to ask someone about their individual aspirations or life objectives. It focuses on the word 'persönlich' to distinguish from professional or group goals, inviting a deeper conversation about self-improvement or personal milestones.

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When to use

Use this phrase in one-on-one conversations when you want to get to know someone better or during a performance review. It is appropriate for both close friends and professional mentors.

✦Grammar Breakdown

WelchepersönlichenZielehastdu

1

Welche

This is an interrogative pronoun that agrees with the plural noun 'Ziele' in the accusative case.

2

Ziele

The plural of 'Ziel' (goal). In German, nouns are always capitalized.

🗨In Conversation

A

Welche persönlichen Ziele hast du für dieses Jahr?

What personal goals do you have for this year?

Ich möchte endlich einen Marathon laufen.

I want to finally run a marathon.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Was persönliche Ziele hast du?

    Use 'Welche' (which/what) instead of 'Was' when asking for specific items from a category.

  • Welche persönliche Ziele hast du?

    The adjective must end in -en to agree with the plural accusative noun 'Ziele' after 'Welche'.

↔Alternatives

  • Was sind deine Ziele?

    What are your goals?

  • Was möchtest du erreichen?

    What do you want to achieve?

de

Cultural Tip

Germans often value privacy but appreciate structured ambition. Asking about goals is common in self-development circles and among close friends, but it might be seen as too direct for a first-time meeting with a stranger.