German Phrase
Was für ein Getränk?
Meaning
Literally “What kind of a drink?” – a request for the type or category of beverage someone would like or is referring to. It can be used to ask about alcoholic vs. non‑alcoholic, hot vs. cold, etc.
When to use
Use this question in cafés, restaurants, parties, or any situation where you need to know the specific type of drink someone wants or is talking about. It’s more specific than just asking “Was trinkst du?” (What are you drinking?).
✦Grammar Breakdown
WasfüreinGetränk?
Was für
A fixed interrogative phrase meaning “what kind of / what sort of”. It is followed by the indefinite article and the noun.
ein (indefinite article)
Because Getränk is neuter, the correct indefinite article is ein. It also signals that the speaker expects an open‑ended answer.
Getränk (neuter noun)
The word for “drink, beverage”. Its plural is Getränke. In the singular it takes the article das.
🗨In Conversation
Was für ein Getränk möchtest du?
What kind of drink would you like?
Ich nehme ein kaltes Wasser, bitte.
I’ll have a cold water, please.
✕Common Mistakes
Was ist ein Getränk?
This asks for a definition of “drink”, not the type you want.
Welcher Getränk?
‘Getränk’ is neuter, so the correct interrogative is ‘Welches’.
Was für ein Getrank?
Spelling error – the correct spelling is ‘Getränk’ with an umlaut.
↔Alternatives
Welches Getränk?
Which drink?
Was trinkst du gern?
What do you like to drink?
Was für ein Getränk ist das?
What kind of drink is that?
Cultural Tip
In German‑speaking countries it’s common to ask about the type of drink before ordering, especially in formal settings. “Getränk” covers everything from water and juice to beer and schnapps. If you want to be more specific, you can say “alkoholisches Getränk” (alcoholic drink) or “alkoholfreies Getränk” (non‑alcoholic drink). Remember that “Was für ein …?” is informal; in very polite contexts you might use “Welches …?” instead.