Use kas when forming a question that asks about an unknown person or thing.
Use kas when forming a question that asks about an unknown person or thing.
| Incorrect | Correct |
| Kas tu redzēsi? | Ko tu redzēsi? |
| Kas tu ir? | Kas tu esi? |
| Kas viņa ir? | Kas viņš ir? |
Use kas to link a relative clause that adds detail about a noun.
| Incorrect | Correct |
| Cilvēks, kas redz, ir šeit. | Cilvēks, kurš redz, ir šeit. |
| Grāmata, kas es lasu, ir interesanta. | Grāmata, ko es lasu, ir interesanta. |
| Mēs redzējām filmu, kas tev patīk, bet tas nav labs. | Mēs redzējām filmu, ko tev patīk, bet tas nav labs. |
Use kas as the interrogative pronoun to ask about something, and as the relative pronoun to introduce a clause that adds information.
The form kas is often used where the accusative ko is required, leading to sentences like “Kas tu redzēsi?” instead of the correct “Ko tu redzēsi?”.
From Proto‑Balto‑Slavic *kas, ultimately from Proto‑Indo‑European *kʷos.
What does kas mean?
kas is a pronoun used to ask what or who, and also to introduce a relative clause.
How is kas used as an interrogative pronoun?
It stands at the start of a question to ask about a person or thing, e.g., Kas ir tavs vārds?
When should I use kas as a relative pronoun?
Use it to link a clause that gives more information about a noun, e.g., cilvēks, kas runā.
What is the accusative form of kas?
The accusative form is ko.
Is there a difference between kas and kurš?
Yes, kas is neutral, while kurš is used for specific choices.
Can kas be used for people and objects?
Yes, it can refer to both persons and things.
What is the origin of the word kas?
It comes from Proto‑Balto‑Slavic *kas, ultimately from Proto‑Indo‑European *kʷos.
Are there any common mistakes with kas?
A frequent error is using kas where the accusative ko is required.
How does kas compare to English ‘what’?
kas functions the same way as English ‘what’, asking for identification.