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German Phrase

Hast du die Zeit?

/hast duː diː tsaɪt/
Meaning"Do you have the time?"
💡

Meaning

This phrase is a direct way to ask someone what time it currently is. In German, the inclusion of the definite article 'die' specifies that you are asking for the clock time rather than asking if the person is generally free or available.

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When to use

Use this phrase in casual settings with friends, family, or peers when you need to check the time. It is a standard informal inquiry used when you don't have a watch or phone accessible.

✦Grammar Breakdown

HastdudieZeit?

1

Verb-First Order

In German questions, the conjugated verb 'Hast' comes first, followed by the subject 'du'.

2

Definite Article

The word 'die' (the) is crucial here; 'die Zeit' refers specifically to the current time on the clock.

🗨In Conversation

A

Entschuldigung, hast du die Zeit?

Excuse me, do you have the time?

Ja, es ist genau fünf Uhr.

Yes, it is exactly five o'clock.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Hast du Zeit?

    Without the article 'die', this means 'Are you free?' or 'Do you have a moment?' rather than asking for the clock time.

  • Wie viel Zeit ist es?

    To ask 'What time is it?' using 'wie viel', you must use the word 'Uhr' instead of 'Zeit'.

↔Alternatives

  • Wie spät ist es?

    How late is it? (What time is it?)

  • Wie viel Uhr ist es?

    What time is it?

  • Haben Sie die Uhrzeit?

    Do you have the (current) time? (Formal)

de

Cultural Tip

Germans are known for their punctuality, so being aware of the time is socially important. When asking a stranger for the time, it is common courtesy to precede the question with 'Entschuldigung' (Excuse me) and use the formal 'Sie' version: 'Haben Sie die Uhrzeit?'.