German Phrase
Wie wär's mit Mittwoch?
Meaning
This phrase is a common way to propose a specific time or day for a meeting. It uses the contraction 'wär's' (wäre es), which is the subjunctive mood, making the suggestion sound polite and open for discussion rather than a demand.
When to use
Use this when you are coordinating schedules with friends, colleagues, or acquaintances. It is ideal for the 'negotiation' phase of planning an event or appointment.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Wiewär'smitMittwoch?
Wär's (Konjunktiv II)
This is a contraction of 'wäre es'. The subjunctive II form of 'sein' is used here to express a polite suggestion or a hypothetical scenario.
Preposition 'mit'
The preposition 'mit' always triggers the dative case. While 'Mittwoch' doesn't change its ending here, other nouns following 'mit' would need to be in the dative.
🗨In Conversation
Wollen wir uns diese Woche treffen?
Do we want to meet this week?
Gerne! Wie wär's mit Mittwoch?
Gladly! How about Wednesday?
✕Common Mistakes
Wie ist mit Mittwoch?
Avoid using the indicative 'ist' for suggestions; the subjunctive 'wäre' (wär's) is the standard idiomatic choice.
Wie wär's an Mittwoch?
In this specific idiomatic expression, the preposition 'mit' is used to introduce the suggestion, not 'an'.
↔Alternatives
Passt dir Mittwoch?
Does Wednesday suit you?
Was hältst du von Mittwoch?
What do you think of Wednesday?
Cultural Tip
In German-speaking cultures, being specific with dates and times is appreciated as it shows respect for the other person's schedule. Using 'wär's' strikes a perfect balance between being direct and being flexible.