How to Say ‘How can I help you?’ in German
Was kann ich für Sie tun?
💬 Usage Tip: Word-for-word: 'What can I for you do?'
🇩🇪 In Germany: You'll often hear this in stores and restaurants; it's a standard line for customer service.
Word-by-Word Breakdown
Was
[vahs]
What can I do for you?
A phrase used to offer assistance.
Was kann ich für Sie tun, Herr Müller?
What can I do for you, Mr. Müller?
kann
[kahn]
What
Interrogative word for asking questions.
Was kann ich Ihnen anbieten?
What can I offer you?
ich
[ikh]
What can I
Part of a question offering help.
Was kann ich bringen?
What can I bring?
für
[fyur]
What can I do
Phrase to offer assistance.
Was kann ich tun, um zu helfen?
What can I do to help?
Sie
[zee]
What can I do for you
Used to offer help politely.
Was kann ich für Sie tun?, fragte der Kellner freundlich.
What can I do for you?, asked the waiter politely.
tun
[toon]
do for you?
Ends the question offering assistance.
Was kann ich für Sie tun? Ich nehme Bestellungen entgegen.
What can I do for you? I am taking orders.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Berlin bureaucracy requires real German. This app got me from zero to handling my Anmeldung appointment in three weeks. My coworkers couldn’t believe it.”
Emma L., 27, UX Researcher
“Relocated to Munich with my family. The everyday scenarios — grocery shopping, doctor visits, school meetings — are exactly what we needed to settle in.”
Marcus J., 40, Engineer
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager