What Kind Of... in German

by Expath Language School

How to ask “what kind of” in German.

Expression

If you’ve ever wondered how to ask “What kind(s) of…?” in German, look no further than this handy phrase: Was für…?

Examples

Was für Musik magst du? What kind(s) of music do you like?

Was ist das für ein Buch? What kind of book is that?

Was für ein Auto fährst du? What kind of car do you drive?

Good to Know

It can also be used as an exclamation (chiefly by older Germans), like in this topical sentence:

Was für ein Wetter! What weather (we’re having)!

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