Wann, wie lange, wie oft
A1 · Beginner · Basics
The rule
Time questions: when, how long, how often.
How it works
Wann asks for a point in time (when), wie lange asks for a duration (how long) and wie oft asks about frequency (how often). Answering them correctly helps you talk about schedules, habits and plans. Each question word takes the verb in second position, like other w-questions.
When to use it
Ask about time: wann (when), wie lange (how long) and wie oft (how often).
Use cases
- Planning a meeting: Wann können wir uns treffen?
- Asking about the length of a course: Wie lange dauert der Kurs?
- Asking about habits: Wie oft gehst du ins Fitnessstudio?
Examples
- Wie oft gehst du schwimmen? – How often do you go swimming?
- Wann beginnt der Unterricht? – When does the lesson begin?
- Wie lange wohnst du schon hier? – How long have you lived here?
- Wie oft fährst du mit dem Bus? – How often do you take the bus?
Common mistake
Mixing wie lange (duration) with wann (a point in time).
Memory tip
Wann = when, wie lange = for how long, wie oft = how many times.