Meaning
A formal question asking about someone's job or occupation.
Cultural Background
Germans value clarity. Asking about a job is a way to understand someone's status and background quickly. Austrians are often even more formal; using titles like 'Herr Doktor' is common before asking about the job.
Use 'machen'
If you forget 'beruflich', 'Was machen Sie?' is often understood in context.
Meaning
A formal question asking about someone's job or occupation.
Use 'machen'
If you forget 'beruflich', 'Was machen Sie?' is often understood in context.
Test Yourself
Select the most formal way to ask about a job.
Which sentence is correct for a business meeting?
Uses the formal 'Sie' and professional vocabulary.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercisesWhich sentence is correct for a business meeting?
Uses the formal 'Sie' and professional vocabulary.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsNo, your boss already knows your job. Use it for new acquaintances.
Related Phrases
Was machen Sie beruflich?
synonymWhat do you do for a living?
Was ist Ihr Beruf?
similarWhat is your profession?
