German Phrase
Wann hast du Geburtstag?
Meaning
This question asks someone for the date of their birthday. It is a direct, informal way to inquire about the day a person was born.
When to use
Use it in casual conversation with friends, classmates, or colleagues when you want to know the exact day they celebrate their birthday. It is appropriate in spoken German and informal written messages.
✦Grammar Breakdown
WannhastduGeburtstag?
Question word first
In German yes‑no and wh‑questions, the interrogative word (e.g., wann, wo, warum) comes first, followed by the finite verb.
Verb‑second rule
After the question word, the conjugated verb occupies the second position (hast).
Verb + object order
The subject (du) follows the verb, then the object (Geburtstag).
Idiomatic expression
German uses the verb haben with Geburtstag – literally ‘to have a birthday’ – not sein.
🗨In Conversation
Wann hast du Geburtstag?
When is your birthday?
Ich habe am 12. März Geburtstag.
I have my birthday on March 12th.
✕Common Mistakes
Wann ist du Geburtstag?
Birthday uses the verb haben, not sein.
Wann hast du dein Geburtstag?
The noun Geburtstag does not need an article in this construction.
Du hast Geburtstag.
Missing the question word ‘Wann’ makes it a statement, not a question.
↔Alternatives
An welchem Tag hast du Geburtstag?
On which day is your birthday?
Dein Geburtstag ist wann?
Your birthday is when? (very informal)
Wann feierst du deinen Geburtstag?
When do you celebrate your birthday?
Cultural Tip
In German‑speaking countries birthdays are often celebrated with a cake (Geburtstagskuchen) and a small party. It is common to give a card (Geburtstagskarte) and a gift. When you’re invited to a birthday celebration, it’s polite to bring a small present or at least a bottle of wine. Note that the phrase uses ‘haben’ – never say *„Wann ist du Geburtstag?“* because ‘sein’ is not used for birthdays.