german essays for beginners

50 Useful German Essay Words and Phrases

by  fredo21  

January 9, 2019

2  Comments

Essay-writing is in itself already a difficult endeavor. Now writing an essay in a foreign language like German ---that’s on a different plane of difficulty.  

To make it easier for you, here in this article, we’ve compiled the most useful German essay phrases. Feel free to use these to add a dash of pizzazz into your essays. It will add just the right amount of flourish into your writing---enough to impress whoever comes across your work!

You can also download these phrases in PDF format by clicking the button below.

Now here’s your list!

What other German vocabulary list would you like to see featured here? Please feel free to leave a message in the comment section and we’ll try our best to accommodate your requests soon!

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For an easier way to learn German vocabulary, check out German short stories for beginners!

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Asking questions are genuinely good thing if you are not understanding anything completely, except this piece of writing provides nice understanding yet.

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German Writing: 5 Tips and 12 Resources To Help You Express Yourself in German

How much time do you actively spend writing in German?

It’s all too common—you might have reading , listening and speaking in German covered, but writing slips through the cracks.

German is the language of some of the most prolific authors and well-known literary works in the world, and it remains an important academic language even in today’s world.

Here are some strategies and tools for incorporating writing practice into your German study routine. 

Strategies for How to Write in German

1. read first, write second, 2. set a schedule, 3. start simple, 4. slowly move up to advanced topics, 5. work on weak spots, online tools for german writing practice, dictionaries, thesauruses, language learning apps, language exchange apps, social media, why you need to invest time in german writing, you can learn at your own tempo, it’s excellent practice ground for more complex grammar, you can practice by yourself, and one more thing....

Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)

Before you can be a producer of prize-winning German prose, you first need to become a consumer. Pretty much all prolific writers out there are also voracious readers.

So, go out and read, read, read. Material for beginners includes:

• Children’s books
• Comic books / Cartoons
• Tabloid papers
• Young fiction novels
• Fairy tales

When attempting to learn a new skill, consistency beats effort every time. You’ve probably heard about the hare and the turtle (which, by the way, are Der Hase und Der Igel —the hare and the hedgehog— in German). Slow and steady wins the race and all that.

Therefore, when trying to learn to write German, make sure you practice every day. Aim for process instead of achievement. It’s better to do less regularly than more occasionally. Five sentences are enough for starters. The topic is up to you. Just make sure you get it done.

In the same vein, don’t be overly ambitious with your material. While ambition is generally a good thing, too much of it can lead to frustration. Develop a tolerance and an acuity for the level you’re at.

If you’ve just learned to string together subject, verb and object, don’t try to jump right into subjunctive II and the pluperfect. Moderation, young Padawan! Get comfortable at your current level first before moving on.

Consistently take it up a notch. Once you’re confident that you’ve mastered a certain grammatical topic, move on to more complex areas.

For example:

1. Learn simple sentence structure :

Ich mache einen Salat. Du kaufst Bier. Er trinkt Kaffee.   (I make a salad. You buy beer. He drinks coffee.) 

2. Then include additional elements such as location, manner and time designation:

Heute mache ich einen Salat. Du kaufst Bier im Supermarkt. Er trinkt gerne Kaffee.   (Today, I’m making a salad. You buy beer at the supermarket. He likes to drink coffee.) 

3. Maybe switch to the past tense : 

Ich habe einen Salat gemacht. Du hast Bier gekauft. Er hat Kaffee getrunken. (I made a salad. You bought bier. He drank coffee.) 

4. And do the same in that tense:

Gestern habe ich einen Salat gemacht. Du hast Bier im Supermarkt gekauft. Er hat gerne Kaffee getrunken.   (Yesterday, I made a salad. You bought beer at the supermarket. He liked to drink coffee.) 

Or instead of learning syntax, you could concentrate on practicing German cases , adjective endings or compound nouns .

By progressing slowly like that, soon you’ll arrive at writing gems like this:

Letztes Wochenende wäre ich mit meinem Mann zu unseren Freunden in Süddeutschland gefahren, wenn es keinen Streik bei der Bahn gegeben hätte. 

Translation:

“Last weekend I would have travelled with my husband to our friends in Southern Germany if there hadn’t been a train strike.”

Take copious notes on what you’d like to say but can’t. Note down where you’re still blocked. Share what you write with a tutor or language partner and go over their corrections to figure out where your strengths and weaknesses lie.

You’ll screw up some stuff over and over while other things will roll from your fingertips like you’re a native.

Make note of the former and compile a “worst of” list detailing the German phrase structures, tenses and other grammatical phenomena that you’re struggling with. This will enable you to address these weak spots in a targeted manner.

Put aside some time only to work on what you find most difficult. You’ll see that it’s possible to turn weakness into strength.

Check out these handy resources:  

There are a lot of free, online German dictionaries, but two of my favorites are Leo and Linguee .

Leo is perfect for looking up words and common phrases, but it also has the added benefit of discussion forums. If you’ve looked up a word but are still slightly confused by its exact translation then you can post a new discussion and other members will happily help you out.

Linguee is useful for intermediate to advanced German learners. When you search for a word, the websites will show you a number of paragraphs in which the word is used. This shows you the various contexts in which the word or phrase may be used.

Beginners may find that they repeat the same words over and over again. This is usually due to a limited vocabulary. Once you learn more words, you’ll have more to use.

It takes time to build up your German vocabulary but while you’re trying to, you’ll probably find online thesauruses really helpful.

One of the best online German thesauruses is Open Thesaurus . If you’re ever sick of repeatedly using schön to describe something or someone as beautiful, pop it in the thesaurus search engine and you’ll be amazed at what comes up. You’ll see in-context usage examples, so you’ll learn the different nuances and meanings of each alternative word.

After a quick search using the word  schön , you’ll know exactly how to use the likes of hübsch (cute), umwerfend (gorgeous) and prächtig (magnificent)!

Many important German documents and letters differ stylistically from those in America. Rather than rushing into it and writing an important letter exactly how you would here, you need to think carefully to ensure that bad form doesn’t give the reader the wrong impression. To ensure you don’t mess up, it’s a good idea to use an online template.

There are loads of letter and email templates online. Depending on what you need one for, you’ll find a lot by simply googling. So if you need a cover letter for a job, just google “German cover letter” or the German equivalent, ein   Anschreiben  or  Bewerbungsschreiben. 

You can connect your Duolingo account to other social media accounts and compete against friends—there’s nothing like some friendly competition to motivate your German learning!

If you don’t fully understand a question or translation, you can check in with other Duolingo members. After each question, you’ll be invited to comment on the answer.

FluentU also offers you the chance to read and write in German with its transcripts and exercises. It’s a unique learning resource that teaches you the language through video clips from authentic German media such as movie trailers, music videos and news segments.

As mentioned earlier, finding a native speaker to correct your writing is an excellent idea. I therefore recommend that you get a tutor or language partner . Places to find the latter are:

• My Language Exchange

To make your relationship a success, find someone who’s just as eager to improve as you are. When correcting their writing, provide detailed feedback and annotations and have them return the favor. That way you can both grow in your proficiency and ramp up your knowledge in the shortest amount of time.

You can also try the Reddit forum r/WriteStreakGerman , where you can post your German writing and native speakers will give corrections.  

If you want to put your German out there and practice with some native speakers, log into Twitter and follow all the excellent German-language accounts . Tweeting with Germans will show you the German they use in everyday life, and you may even pick up some quirky idioms and slang!

You can always flood your existing friends’ Facebook feeds with German language posts as well, or hop over to some German Facebook pages and groups to make new friends and join in some lively discussions.

Even if your primary objective is to speak German fluently, writing is an important step toward that goal. The act of putting words down on paper (or onto a screen) is a whole different deal than talking. Writing is a more deliberate way of processing language and therefore offers you some unique help in acquiring new language.

Here are the benefits:

Talking in a foreign language requires to you interact in real time. That can be stressful and you might miss out on a lot of nuances.

Paper, on the other hand, is patient. You can think about your sentences while writing, go back to revise, correct your errors, get a better feel for grammatical structures and become familiar with overall linguistic rules.

Since we’re talking about grammar: when speaking, it’s easy to go the path of least resistance by using the few phrases you already know over and over. Unless you’re deliberately pushing yourself, you’re probably sticking with your guns and using short and simple sentences.

That’s not a crime, mind you (not even in Germany). However, it might keep you confined in your language skills. Writing, with its slower tempo, allows you to dip your feet into more complex rules and give them a whirl before integrating new grammar structures into your everyday speech.

Speaking inherently requires more than one person. Since you cannot always have a language partner at hand and not everyone gets to live with a German host family , having some form of solo practice is important.

Writing is a solo form. While it’s quite a good idea to have someone available who can look over your literary outpourings and correct them, the act of writing in itself is a one-person job. All you German-studying introverts out there, take advantage of this fact!

Writing in German is a skill like everything else. All it takes is consistent practice, qualified feedback and continuously cranking up the challenge level.

Don’t be afraid to start small. Going through a “caveman phase,” where everything in your new language sounds like coming from a Neanderthal is normal (and fun).

You might not become the next Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, but practicing German writing might get you to the point where you can read him in the original. And that’s worth a lot.

Want to know the key to learning German effectively?

It's using the right content and tools, like FluentU has to offer ! Browse hundreds of videos, take endless quizzes and master the German language faster than you've ever imagine!

Watching a fun video, but having trouble understanding it? FluentU brings native videos within reach with interactive subtitles.

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The best part is that FluentU keeps track of the vocabulary that you're learning, and gives you extra practice with difficult words. It'll even remind you when it’s time to review what you’ve learned.

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German Essay Phrases: 24 Useful Expressions to Write an Essay (For Goethe Exam or Real Life)

As we often think in English first, translating our ideas into useful German phrases can be tricky.

This handy blog post includes 24 essential German essay phrases to help make your writing flow more smoothly and sound more natural. Whether you’re preparing for the Goethe exam, a GCSE test, or just want to improve your written German for real-life situations, these chunks and phrases will help you. Easy German has a great video on useful German expression:

From organizing your thoughts with transitions like “ zudem ” and “ außerdem “, to expressing your opinion with phrases like “ meiner Meinung nach ” and “ ich denke, dass… “, this post has you covered.

Write an essay with German essay phrases: learn how to structure your story

Goethe tests love a clear and logical format. They follow the same structure throughout the different levels. The good news is, when you’re learning a language, you can use these German essay phrases with these structures even in your real-life dialogues. Then, gradually, you can shift your focus to a more natural-sounding speaking.

First, begin with an engaging introduction to get the reader’s attention. This intro paragraph should also include a short thesis statement that outlines the central argument you’ll be taking.

In the body of your essay, organize your thoughts into separate paragraphs. Use transitional phrases like “ außerdem ” (furthermore) and “ zudem ” (moreover) to connect your paragraphs and create a flow.

After that, summarize your main points and restate your thesis. But! Avoid introducing new information. Leave the reader with a compelling final thought or even a call to action that makes your central argument stronger.

If you’re not certain enough, check the following list and learn about the must-have go-to German essay phrases now!

1. Erstens – Firstly

This German essay phrase is used to introduce the first point in your essay.

Erstens werden wir die Hauptargumente diskutieren. [Firstly, we will discuss the main arguments.]

2. Zweitens – Secondly

Normally, this phrase is there for you when you want to introduce the second point in a structured manner.

Zweitens betrachten wir einige Gegenbeispiele. [Secondly, we will look at some counterexamples.]

3. Drittens – Thirdly

Used to signal the third point for clarity in your argument.

Drittens ziehen wir eine Schlussfolgerung. [Thirdly, we will draw a conclusion.]

4. Einleitend muss man sagen… – To begin with, one has to say…

Start your essay with this phrase to introduce your key points.

Einleitend muss man sagen, dass dieses Thema komplex ist. [To begin with, one has to say that this topic is complex.]

5. Man muss … in Betracht ziehen – One needs to take … into consideration

When you want to consider a specific aspect in your discussion.

Man muss den historischen Kontext in Betracht ziehen. [One needs to take the historical context into consideration.]

6. Ein wichtiger Aspekt von X ist … – An important aspect of X is …

To highlight an important part…

Ein wichtiger Aspekt von Nachhaltigkeit ist die Ressourcenschonung. [An important aspect of sustainability is resource conservation.]

7. Man muss erwähnen, dass… – One must mention that …

Used to emphasize a point that need acknowledgement.

Man muss erwähnen, dass es verschiedene Ansichten gibt. [One must mention that there are different viewpoints.]

8. Im Vergleich zu – In comparison to…

To compare different elements in your essay.

Im Vergleich zu konventionellen Autos sind Elektrofahrzeuge umweltfreundlicher. [In comparison to conventional cars, electric vehicles are more eco-friendly.]

9. Im Gegensatz zu – In contrast to…

When you want to present an alternative viewpoint or argument.

Im Gegensatz zu optimistischen Prognosen ist die Realität ernüchternd. [In contrast to optimistic forecasts, reality is sobering.]

10. Auf der einen Seite – On the one hand

To add a new perspective.

Auf der einen Seite gibt es finanzielle Vorteile. [On the one hand, there are financial benefits.]

11. Auf der anderen Seite – On the other hand

Present an alternative viewpoint.

Auf der anderen Seite bestehen ethische Bedenken. [On the other hand, ethical concerns exist.]

12. Gleichzeitig – At the same time

When you want to show a simultaneous relationship between ideas.

Gleichzeitig müssen wir Kompromisse eingehen. [At the same time, we must make compromises.]

13. Angeblich – Supposedly

If you want to add information that is claimed but not confirmed.

Angeblich wurde der Konflikt beigelegt. [Supposedly, the conflict was resolved.]

14. Vermutlich – Presumably

Used when discussing something that is presumed but not certain.

Vermutlich wird sich die Situation verbessern. [Presumably, the situation will improve.]

15. In der Tat – In fact

To add a fact or truth in your essay.

In der Tat sind die Herausforderungen groß. [In fact, the challenges are great.]

16. Tatsächlich – Indeed

Emphasize a point or a fact.

Tatsächlich haben wir Fortschritte gemacht. [Indeed, we have made progress.]

17. Im Allgemeinen – In general

When discussing something in a general context.

Im Allgemeinen ist das System reformbedürftig. [In general, the system needs reform.]

18. Möglicherweise – Possibly

Spice your essay with a possibility or potential scenario.

Möglicherweise finden wir einen Konsens. [Possibly, we will find a consensus.]

19. Eventuell – Possibly

To suggest a potential outcome or situation.

Eventuell müssen wir unsere Strategie überdenken. [Possibly, we need to rethink our strategy.]

20. In jedem Fall / Jedenfalls – In any case

Used to emphasize a point regardless of circumstances.

In jedem Fall müssen wir handeln. [In any case, we must take action.]

21. Das Wichtigste ist – The most important thing is

If you want to highlight the most important thing in your saying.

Das Wichtigste ist, dass wir zusammenarbeiten. [The most important thing is that we cooperate.]

22. Ohne Zweifel – Without a doubt

To introduce a statement that is unquestionably trues.

Ohne Zweifel ist Bildung der Schlüssel zum Erfolg. [Without a doubt, education is the key to success.]

23. Zweifellos – Doubtless

Just as the previous one, when you want say something that is, without a doubt, true.

Zweifellos gibt es noch viel zu tun. [Doubtless, there is still a lot to be done.]

24. Verständlicherweise – Understandably

If you want to add a thing that is understandable in the given context.

Verständlicherweise sind einige Menschen besorgt. [Understandably, some people are concerned.]

Practice the most important German essay phrases

Practice the German essay phrases now!

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Learn the language and more German essay words and sentences with Conversation Based Chunking

Conversation Based Chunking represents a powerful approach to learning language skills. It’s especially useful for productive purposes like essay writing.

By learning phrases and expressions used in natural discourse, students internalize vocabulary and grammar in context rather than as isolated rules. This method helps you achieve fluency and helps you develop a ‘feel’ for a an authentic patterns.

Chunking common multi-word units accelerates progress by reducing cognitive load compared to consciously constructing each sentence from individual words. Sign up now to get access to your German Conversation Based Chunking Guide.

Lukas is the founder of Effortless Conversations and the creator of the Conversation Based Chunking™ method for learning languages. He's a linguist and wrote a popular book about learning languages through "chunks". He also co-founded the language education company Spring Languages, which creates online language courses and YouTube content.

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Essential German Essay Phrases to Elevate Your Writing

Writing an essay in German can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with the language’s unique expressions and structures. To help you navigate the intricacies of German essay writing and add sophistication to your compositions, we have compiled a list of 24 essential phrases. These phrases will not only enhance the clarity and coherence of your writing but also showcase your command over the German language .

Einleitende Sätze (Introductory Phrases):

a. Zunächst einmal… – Firstly…

b. Es ist allgemein bekannt, dass… – It is generally known that…

c. In der heutigen Gesellschaft… – In today’s society…

d. Es lässt sich nicht leugnen, dass… – It cannot be denied that…

Beispielgebende Phrasen (Exemplifying Phrases):

a. Ein gutes Beispiel hierfür ist… – A good example of this is…

b. Zum Beispiel… – For example…

c. Dies wird deutlich, wenn man… – This becomes clear when one…

d. Als Veranschaulichung kann man… – As an illustration, one can…

Verbindende Wörter (Connecting Words):

a. Darüber hinaus… – Furthermore…

b. In Bezug auf… – With regard to…

c. Im Vergleich zu… – In comparison to…

d. Einerseits… andererseits… – On the one hand… on the other hand…

Zusammenfassende Phrasen (Summarizing Phrases):

a. Abschließend lässt sich sagen… – In conclusion, it can be said…

b. Alles in allem… – All in all…

c. Zusammenfassend kann man feststellen… – In summary, one can determine…

d. Im Großen und Ganzen… – By and large…

Hervorhebende Phrasen (Emphasizing Phrases):

a. Es ist besonders wichtig zu betonen… – It is particularly important to emphasize…

b. Es steht außer Frage, dass… – There is no question that…

c. Es lässt sich nicht bestreiten… – It cannot be denied…

d. Es ist unerlässlich, dass… – It is essential that…

Kontrastierende Phrasen (Contrasting Phrases):

a. Im Gegensatz dazu… – In contrast to that…

b. Trotzdem… – Nevertheless…

c. Während… – While…

d. Allerdings… – However…

Abschließende Sätze (Concluding Sentences):

a. Zusammenfassend lässt sich festhalten… – To summarize, it can be stated…

b. Abschließend kann man sagen… – In conclusion, one can say…

c. Letztendlich… – Ultimately…

d. Abschließend bleibt zu sagen… – In conclusion, it remains to be said…

Conclusion : By incorporating these 24 essential phrases into your German essays, you will elevate your writing and demonstrate a strong command of the language. Remember to practice using these phrases in context to ensure a natural flow in your compositions. With time and practice, your German essay writing skills will flourish, allowing you to express your ideas with clarity, coherence, and sophistication. Viel Erfolg! (Good luck!)

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Useful German Essay Words and Phrases

Essay writing in German is in itself already a difficult endeavor. Now writing an essay in a foreign language like German —that’s on a different plane of difficulty.

To make it easier for you, here in this article, we’ve compiled the most useful German essay phrases. Feel free to use these to add a dash of pizzazz into your essays. It will add just the right amount of flourish into your writing—enough to impress whoever comes across your work!

German essay words

These words are very useful to start writing essays in German in academic way.

Tips for writing an essay in German

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personal pronouns in German

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Phrases a bout medical laboratory in German

Word Order in Questions

German phrases at bakery

How to take care of the baby in German

Names of insects in German

German phrases about Yoga

German idioms with Apfel (apple)

German Texts for Beginners

Learn German in 25 Minutes

Vocabularies about Sports and Activities in German

Reflexive Pronouns in German Grammar

Nouns and Adjectives in German

German phrases at museum

Verbs and vocabulary about school in german.

German phrases at Children’s Club

Past Perfect Continuous Tense in German

German phrases about Oktoberfest

Fractions in German

Personal pronouns in German

German months of the year/ speak aloud !

Time in German

German phrases about Failure

Love phrases in German

German Idioms with Gürtel (belt)

Prepositional Expressions in German

Phrases in hospital in German

German Writing: How to Write in German

Writing poses its own unique set of benefits and issues for German language learners. Since you have time to think and review what you want to say, there are better odds that you can learn the grammar and other aspects of German.

The most difficult skill to master when learning German is writing texts. There are quite a few problems to overcome before one can produce a readable or even enjoyable text.

Like written English, written German is more structured and formal. This means that the rules that you learned always apply, so it’s a great way of practicing what you learn in a class or after a lesson. Let me do a quick analysis of the difficulties that you will come across and then present to you what I think is an excellent tool to get started with your German writing practice: Dictations!

German Spelling of Native German Words

One of the main two problems of written language is the fact that German is spoken differently than it is written. The word ‚Vater‘ e.g. is spoken ‚farter‘. The ‚r‘ is never pronounced at the end of an unstressed syllable.

Also, in everyday communication Germans tend to ignore the second last ‚e‘  like in ‚kaufen‘ e.g. which then sounds like ‚cow-fn‘. Or the ‚ig‘ in ‚mutig‘ turns into an ‚ich‘ just because it is at the end of the syllable making it indistinguishable from the ‘ich’ in ‘glücklich’.

There are surely many more examples and the good news is that in German the gap between the spoken and the written language is much narrower than in English. But yet the differences certainly will cause you trouble. Please see also the article about how to practice listening comprehension to understand the physiological side of this issue.

Upside down

The other big challenge is the German sentence structure that often differs from the English one (or your native language’s structure). As you have already internalized your mother tongue’s patterns and melodies, you will find it hard to switch to something totally different. Let me illustrate:

Maria geht ins Kino. Gestern ging Maria ins Kino. Maria goes to the cinema. Yesterday, Maria went to the cinema. >> identical structure           >> different word order

Or the side-clauses: Ich fahre nicht in Urlaub, weil ich kein Geld habe . I don’t go on holiday, because I have no money.

and when you put the sideclause in front: Weil ich kein Geld habe , fahre ich nicht in Urlaub. Because I have no money, I don’t go on holiday.

Understand that your mind will always be tempted to use the structures that it got used to over the last twenty to forty years. It will take quite some effort from you to overcome this tendency.

das Heft – the notebook / Image via Pixabay

Dictations will help you overcome these problems

You might remember dictations from your time at a regular school. I never really liked them that much as I wasn’t really the king of orthography at that time. But later on, while learning French, I realized that writing dictations helped me to improve my writing skills. Nevertheless, it took me many years to realize why it helped me and why I should use it in my classes. A dictation has several benefits:

• You train several skills at once: vocabulary, reading, listening, writing and structuring
• They can be done on your own.
• They reveal your progress almost instantly

I won’t go into detail here as I would like you to simply try it for a few minutes a day for just one week. Then you can see for yourself if what I have experienced also is true for you.

How to do Proper Dictations

Before you start listening and writing, prepare the text that you are going to work with. That means, read it, mark the new words, write them in a list and look them up in your dictionary. Then read the text again until you get 80% of its content. You may use your vocabulary list in the beginning.

Only when you understand what you are listening to can you learn from it. That’s why I do not recommend listening to the radio as it provides too little backup for beginners to work with. When you are clear about the text, get ready for the dictation. There are a few steps that you should always follow to establish a working routine:

• Note the time when you start with the following routine.
• First listen to the whole text. Do not write anything at that stage.
• Listen a second time but this time: sentence by sentence or at least part by part. Listen as many times to a sentence (part) as you need to get a grip on what is being said. Later on you will widen your attention span automatically. Pause after what you consider a fair amount of words and write down what you have  just heard.
• When you are through with the text, take a deep breath, or take a one minute break and then listen to the text again while going over what you have written. Correct mistakes that become clear to you.
• Now take the original text and compare with your work. Mark the mistakes with a highlighter. Do not use a pencil or simple blue pen. Your mistakes have to  be clearly visible. Don’t listen to those who claim that one shouldn’t mark mistakes but the correct words. That’s nonsense. You are a smart human being and can easily differentiate. To learn from your mistakes you must notice your mistakes.
• Write the number of mistakes and the time that you needed until step 5 onto the paper.
• Write it again after several hours or better one day break.
• Repeat this routine until you are only making a few minor mistakes.

This is it. Give it one week with one text. Check this link to get to the links with the dictation material. I wish you success and would love to read about your experience with dictations in the comments.

More to come as often as I find time. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog be up to date.

Mastering the art of German writing involves immersing yourself in the language through extensive reading. Reading not only expands your vocabulary but also acquaints you with the intricacies of German grammar structures and idiomatic phrases or expressions, which can prove challenging for learners.

While learning the German alphabet is fundamental, understanding the rules of written German (orthography, punctuation, and conventions for various formats) takes your understanding to a higher echelon. Regular reading practices play a pivotal role in achieving this. Optimal progress comes from selecting texts slightly above your current fluency level. This challenges you while ensuring steady advancement.

Diversify your reading materials, encompassing novels, newspapers, essays, academic texts, and web articles in what is considered Standard German, as well as regional varieties. A varied approach enhances your overall writing skills, exposing you to different language styles and grammatical structures in written German. This exposure will make learning German more efficient, as well as more fun.

Regular Practice

To enhance your writing skills, establish a regular writing routine. Dedicate time daily or weekly to writing in German, even if it’s just for ten minutes, for example. How long the text should be is based on your current level but also on how busy you are.

In any case, consistency is key, and the more you write, the more skilled you become at writing in German. Also, making your writing practice interesting is crucial to sustaining motivation. Explore online platforms offering writing tasks or prompts for diverse topics.

Consider maintaining a journal in German to practice regularly and track your progress over time. You can also engage in writing contests or challenges to push your boundaries and measure your skills against other learners.

The essence lies in finding topics you are interested in and enjoyable ways to express yourself in German. Whether it’s through fiction, poetry, a letter to a friend, a translation of your favorite lyrics, or simple blog posts about daily life, make it fun. Finding enjoyment in writing increases the likelihood of sticking with it in the long run.

Start Small and Move to More Advanced Topics

For those at the beginning of their German writing journey, starting with simple sentences and topics makes the experience stress-free and fun. Start simple and begin by writing about familiar or everyday subjects, such as describing your day or telling about a recent event. No need to be overly ambitious, just use phrases and grammar that align with your comfort level, gradually expanding as you gain confidence.

As your comfort and confidence grow, challenge yourself with more complex subjects, advanced German vocabulary, and intricate grammar structures. Experiment with longer sentences, varied syntax, and different tenses.

Integrate topics related to learning German into your writing practice. Explore aspects such as the German spelling reform, compare native German words to vocabulary in other Germanic languages, loan words, or expand your knowledge of German culture. Practice specific writing elements, such as formal letters or discussions on specific topics, to become adept at various writing styles, acquire academic vocabulary, and prepare for exams.

Revise Your Texts and Work on Your Weak Spots

Regularly revising your writing is crucial, especially without native speaker feedback. Identify common mistakes or weak spots in grammar or spelling and commit to improving them.

You can use a German grammar checker or opt for a traditional approach by printing your text and meticulously checking it, correcting mistakes as you go. Consider rewriting the edited text to reinforce correct spelling and grammar patterns.

Anyway, just try to embrace mistakes as part of the learning process. The more you practice and revise, the more errors you correct, leading to continuous improvement in your German writing skills.

Incorporating these strategies into your journey of learning German enhances your writing skills while making the process enjoyable and sustainable. Explore, express, and evolve in the rich tapestry of the German language. You can use these skills in combination with others to help you learn german fast and master your new language.

Online Tools for German Writing Practice

Here are some helpful suggestions on tools that can help you in your German writing practice.

Use Online Dictionaries, and Not Just to Correct Spelling

There are many free online German dictionaries available today. You should use one whenever writing to not just look up the spelling or meaning or translation of a word but also see an example or two of how it can be used in context.

For German learners, Leo is an excellent resource for looking up words and common phrases. It also offers the advantage of discussion forums. If you encounter a term that still perplexes you after searching, you can initiate a new discussion, and fellow members will readily assist you.

Linguee proves beneficial for intermediate to advanced German learners. Upon searching for a word, the website displays paragraphs illustrating the word’s usage, providing insights into various contexts.

Thesauruses

Beginners often find themselves using the same words repeatedly due to a limited vocabulary. As you expand your word repertoire, online thesauruses become invaluable.

Open Thesaurus stands out as one of the finest online German thesauruses. If you are tired of always using “schön” to say ”beautiful”, a quick search in the thesaurus will yield a wealth of alternatives like “hübsch” (cute), “umwerfend” (gorgeous), and “prächtig” (magnificent), accompanied by in-context usage. As we already said, seeing an example helps you see nuances in synonyms and learn how to use a word correctly.

Many basic German documents and letter styles adhere to a stylistic approach distinct from that in America. Rather than hastily drafting an important letter as you would in your home country, careful consideration is required to avoid conveying the wrong impression. Using an online template can help you navigate these nuances.

Numerous letter and email templates are available online. Depending on your specific needs, a simple Google search for terms like “German cover letter” or its equivalent in German, such as “ein Anschreiben” or “Bewerbungsschreiben,” will yield a variety of options.

If you like these ideas on how to improve your German, we have many other tips on our blog. Check out our articles on interesting and innovative ways to improve your German.

Interesting to Know: The German Kurrentschrift

From the 16th century until World War II, Germany had a distinctive style of printing and handwriting that set German apart from other European languages. The term “Fraktur” was used to describe the printed German, characterized by its “broken” appearance.

In contrast, the handwritten spelling form of German, where the letters were connected, was referred to as “Kurrent” or “running” script. While Fraktur remained relatively consistent over the centuries, various norms for Kurrent were developed, leading to different styles of handwriting.

Many older Germans today were taught to write in the “Sütterlin” Kurrent style. This style was developed by Ludwig Sütterlin, a graphic artist from Vienna (1865–1917). The Sütterlin script was based on the style of handwriting used in the old German Chancery and was taught in German schools from 1915 to 1941.

Here are some of the questions asked by those interested in improving their writing skills.

What is the German writing style?

The German writing style is characterized by a formal and precise approach. It values clarity and directness, with a tendency towards longer sentences and complex syntax. Additionally, formalities such as addressing people by their titles are common, reflecting a structured and well-organized communication style.

What writing system does German use?

The German writing system uses the Latin alphabet, like English. However, it includes a set of additional characters such as umlauts (ä, ö, ü) and the Eszett (ß). The alphabet consists of 26 letters, with certain letters having unique diacritic marks, contributing to the distinctive German pronunciation and spelling.

What is a ß in the German alphabet called?

The ß in the German alphabet is called “Eszett.” It is one of the unique letters in German representing the sharp “ss” sound. The letter is used in specific instances, especially after long vowels or diphthongs. While not every word with a double “s” uses the Eszett, it has its own rules and is an essential part of German orthography.

How can I improve my German fluency?

Improving your German language skills involves a multifaceted approach. You can learn German with the help of a tutor and by having regular conversations with native speakers. You can also watch German films, and listen to German music or podcasts to enhance your listening skills.

Also, immersing yourself in the foreign language you are studying through various activities contributes to overall fluency. Consider language exchange programs or online platforms to converse with native speakers and gain practical experience.

Summing Up: How to Write in German

So, the ”correct way” to learn German writing involves regular reading, diversified materials, and consistent practice. Starting with simple topics and progressing to advanced subjects ensures a gradual and enjoyable learning process. Revision becomes crucial to identify and rectify weak spots. And with the variety of tools available online today, you should also explore online tools like dictionaries and thesauruses to enhance your writing skills.

German Texts for Beginners

German texts for beginners to practice reading and comprehension in German language. Understanding written German is both demanding and critical. Here is one simple and enjoyable way to see how you are doing.

Experienced German teachers prepared easy articles and simple conversations in German for beginners (level A1 and A2) and intermediates (level B1 and B2) to evaluate your comprehension and leave you feeling challenged and satisfied. Just click, read, and then answer the multiple-choice questions of the associated test. Your answers get evaluated immediately, and you are ready to move on to the next exercise. It's easy, enjoyable and free.

As an added convenience, you can download and print a pdf version of all texts and exercises.

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Learn German Home Vocabulary: Essay Writing on Mein Haus

Learning a new language is always an exciting and rewarding experience. When it comes to German, having a strong vocabulary is essential for effective communication. In this article, we will explore some common German vocabulary words that are used to describe a house. We will also provide you with tips on how to write an essay on “ Mein Haus ” (My House) at different proficiency levels, from beginner to advanced. Whether you are just starting out with German or looking to expand your vocabulary and writing skills, this article will be a valuable resource for you.

In this article, we have provided a list of 50 German vocabulary words related to a house, including their English translations and pronunciation using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). These words cover a range of features, from basic room types and furniture to outdoor structures and utilities. By learning these words, you will be able to describe your home or ask questions about someone else’s.

We have also included five essay titles that cater to different proficiency levels, from beginner to advanced. Whether you are just starting out with German or looking to challenge yourself with more complex sentences and vocabulary, there is an essay title for you. Each essay title comes with a minimum word count requirement, which will help you structure your writing and stay focused.

Table of Contents

50 german vocabulary words related to a house (mein haus), including their english translations and pronunciation using the international phonetic alphabet (ipa).

• Haus (house) [haʊs]
• Zimmer (room) [ˈtsɪmɐ]
• Wohnzimmer (living room) [ˈvoːnzɪmɐ]
• Schlafzimmer (bedroom) [ˈʃlaːfˌtsɪmɐ]
• Küche (kitchen) [ˈkʏçə]
• Badezimmer (bathroom) [ˈbaːdəˌtsɪmɐ]
• Garten (garden) [ˈɡaʁtn̩]
• Balkon (balcony) [ˈbalkɔn]
• Terrasse (terrace) [tɛˈrasə]
• Fenster (window) [ˈfɛnstɐ]
• Tür (door) [tyːɐ̯]
• Boden (floor) [ˈboːdn̩]
• Wand (wall) [vand]
• Dach (roof) [dax]
• Treppenhaus (staircase) [ˈtʁɛpənˌhaʊs]
• Treppe (stairs) [ˈtʁɛpə]
• Teppich (carpet) [ˈtɛpɪç]
• Sofa (sofa) [ˈzoːfa]
• Sessel (armchair) [ˈzɛsl̩]
• Bett (bed) [bɛt]
• Schrank (wardrobe) [ʃʁaŋk]
• Regal (bookshelf) [ʁeˈɡaːl]
• Tisch (table) [tɪʃ]
• Stuhl (chair) [ʃtuːl]
• Lampe (lamp) [ˈlampə]
• Steckdose (power outlet) [ˈʃtɛkdozə]
• Spiegel (mirror) [ˈʃpiːɡl̩]
• Waschmaschine (washing machine) [ˈvaʃmasçiːnə]
• Kühlschrank (refrigerator) [ˈkyːlʃraŋk]
• Herd (stove) [hɛrt]
• Ofen (oven) [ˈoːfən]
• Geschirrspüler (dishwasher) [ɡəˈʃɪʁʁʃplyːɐ̯]
• Heizung (heating) [ˈhaɪtsʊŋ]
• Kamin (fireplace) [kaˈmiːn]
• Dusche (shower) [ˈdʊʃə]
• Badewanne (bathtub) [ˈbaːdəˌvanə]
• Handtuch (towel) [ˈhantʊx]
• Decke (blanket) [ˈdɛkə]
• Kissen (pillow) [ˈkɪsn̩]
• Vorhang (curtain) [ˈfoːʁhaŋ]
• Gardine (curtain) [ɡaʁˈdiːnə]
• Rollladen (roller shutter) [ˈʁɔlaːdən]
• Jalousie (blind) [ʒaluˈziː]
• Sonnenschirm (sun umbrella) [ˈzɔnənʃiʁm]
• Rasen (lawn) [ˈʁaːzn̩]
• Zaun (fence) [zaʊn]
• Türklingel (doorbell) [ˈtyːɐ̯klɪŋl̩]
• Briefkasten (mailbox) [ˈbʁiːfkastn̩]
• Hausnummer (house number) [ˈhaʊsˌnʊmɐ]
• Garagen (garage) [ɡaˈʁaːʒən]

5 German Essays on My House: Meine Haus

Beginner level: mein haus.

Ich lebe in einem kleinen Haus in der Stadt. Es ist zweistöckig und hat einen kleinen Garten. Im Erdgeschoss gibt es ein Wohnzimmer, eine Küche und ein Badezimmer. Im ersten Stock gibt es zwei Schlafzimmer und ein weiteres Badezimmer. Mein Zimmer befindet sich im ersten Stock und ich mag es sehr. Es hat eine schöne Aussicht auf den Garten. Ich fühle mich hier sehr wohl.

I live in a small house in the city. It is two-story and has a small garden. On the ground floor, there is a living room, a kitchen, and a bathroom. On the first floor, there are two bedrooms and another bathroom. My room is on the first floor, and I like it very much. It has a beautiful view of the garden. I feel very comfortable here.

Elementary Level: Mein Haus

Essay Two: 

Mein Traumhaus

Mein Traumhaus ist sehr groß und modern. Es hat drei Stockwerke und einen großen Garten mit einem Pool. Im Erdgeschoss gibt es eine geräumige Küche, ein großes Wohnzimmer und ein Esszimmer. Es gibt auch ein Arbeitszimmer und ein Badezimmer. Im ersten Stock gibt es vier Schlafzimmer und drei Badezimmer. Das Hauptschlafzimmer hat ein eigenes Badezimmer und einen begehbaren Kleiderschrank. Im zweiten Stock gibt es einen Fitnessraum und ein Spielzimmer. Es gibt auch eine Dachterrasse mit einem Whirlpool. Das ist mein Traumhaus.

My Dream House

My dream house is very big and modern. It has three floors and a large garden with a pool. On the ground floor, there is a spacious kitchen, a large living room, and a dining room. There is also a study and a bathroom. On the first floor, there are four bedrooms and three bathrooms. The master bedroom has its own bathroom and a walk-in closet. On the second floor, there is a gym and a game room. There is also a roof terrace with a hot tub. That is my dream house.

Intermediate Level: Mein Haus

Essay Three: 

Mein Haus und meine Familie

Ich wohne mit meiner Familie in einem Haus am Stadtrand. Es hat vier Schlafzimmer, drei Badezimmer und ein großes Wohnzimmer. Wir haben auch einen Garten mit vielen Blumen und Bäumen. Im Sommer essen wir oft draußen auf der Terrasse. Meine Eltern haben ihr Schlafzimmer im ersten Stock und meine Geschwister und ich haben unsere Zimmer im zweiten Stock. Mein Zimmer ist groß und hat einen Balkon mit Blick auf den Garten. Ich verbringe viel Zeit in meinem Zimmer und lerne auch dort. Ich liebe mein Haus und meine Familie sehr.

My House and My Family

I live with my family in a house on the outskirts of the city. It has four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a large living room. We also have a garden with many flowers and trees. In the summer, we often eat outside on the terrace. My parents have their bedroom on the first floor, and my siblings and I have our rooms on the second floor. My room is spacious and has a balcony with a view of the garden. I spend a lot of time in my room and also study there. I love my house and my family very much.

Advanced Level: Mein Haus

Essay Four: 

Mein Haus und die Umgebung

Mein Haus befindet sich in einer ruhigen Gegend am Rande der Stadt. Es ist ein freistehendes Haus mit einem großen Garten. Wir haben eine Garage und einen Abstellraum für unsere Fahrräder und Werkzeuge. In der Umgebung gibt es viele Grünflächen und Spielplätze für Kinder. Es gibt auch eine Bushaltestelle in der Nähe, von der aus wir bequem in die Stadt fahren können. In der Umgebung gibt es auch viele Einkaufsmöglichkeiten und Restaurants. Wir haben Glück, dass wir in einer so schönen und praktischen Gegend wohnen.

My House and the Surroundings

My house is located in a quiet area on the outskirts of the city. It is a detached house with a large garden. We have a garage and a storage room for our bicycles and tools. In the surroundings, there are many green spaces and playgrounds for children. There is also a bus stop nearby from which we can easily travel to the city. In the area, there are also many shopping and dining options. We are lucky to live in such a beautiful and convenient area.

Essay Five:

Mein Traumhaus ist ein modernes Einfamilienhaus am See. Es hat große Fenster und eine Terrasse, die einen atemberaubenden Blick auf den See bietet. Das Haus ist in einem minimalistischen Stil gestaltet, mit klaren Linien und neutralen Farben.

Im Inneren gibt es eine offene Wohnküche mit einem großen Esstisch und modernen Geräten. Die Möbel sind bequem und stilvoll zugleich. Das Wohnzimmer verfügt über einen Kamin und eine gemütliche Couch, auf der ich mich entspannen und ein Buch lesen kann.

Das Haus hat auch ein Arbeitszimmer mit einem Schreibtisch und einem bequemen Stuhl, wo ich in Ruhe arbeiten kann. Das Schlafzimmer ist geräumig und hat ein großes Fenster, durch das ich den Sonnenaufgang über dem See sehen kann. Das Badezimmer ist modern und luxuriös, mit einer großen Badewanne und einer begehbaren Dusche.

Außerhalb des Hauses gibt es einen Garten mit einem Pool und einem Grillbereich, wo ich Freunde und Familie zu einem Barbecue einladen kann. Der See bietet viele Freizeitmöglichkeiten wie Angeln, Schwimmen und Bootfahren.

Mein Traumhaus ist der perfekte Ort, um zur Ruhe zu kommen und die Schönheit der Natur zu genießen.

My dream house is a modern single-family house by the lake. It has large windows and a terrace that offers a breathtaking view of the lake. The house is designed in a minimalist style, with clean lines and neutral colors.

Inside, there is an open-plan living kitchen with a large dining table and modern appliances. The furniture is comfortable and stylish at the same time. The living room has a fireplace and a cozy couch where I can relax and read a book.

The house also has a study with a desk and a comfortable chair where I can work in peace. The bedroom is spacious and has a large window through which I can see the sunrise over the lake. The bathroom is modern and luxurious, with a large bathtub and a walk-in shower.

Outside the house, there is a garden with a pool and a barbecue area where I can invite friends and family for a barbecue. The lake offers many recreational activities such as fishing, swimming, and boating.

My dream house is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature.

In conclusion, learning German home vocabulary and writing an essay on “ Mein Haus ” is an effective way to improve your language skills. By expanding your vocabulary and practicing your writing, you will gain confidence in expressing yourself in German. We hope that this article has been a valuable resource for you and has inspired you to continue learning and exploring the German language.

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92 Basic German Phrases To Survive Your First Conversation With A Native

Have you ever wanted to learn German?

Or are you planning a trip to a German-speaking country?

To get started and have your first basic conversations in German, you're going to need to learn some words!

In this post, you'll learn 92 basic German phrases and words that will help you on your travels or just at home. 

To make it easier for you, I've divided the phrases into different categories.

German Greetings & Introductions

• “I do not understand!” – Getting Out Of Sticky Situations

Numbers In German

Visiting a german restaurant, transport – getting around in germany.

• Asking For Directions
• Shopping In German
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• Finding Hidden Gems

Whether you're going to Germany or Austria or Switzerland, chances are you can get by in English.  But if you learn basic German too, you'll be able to connect more with German speakers. 

Having a few common German phrases will make you experience these countries in a completely different way.

And even at home , learning German will allow you to learn more about German culture and connect with native German speakers in your local community.

You don't need to have a natural flair for language learning. Learning a few key phrases and being able to use them is a great start. And German isn't as hard as its reputation suggests, especially for native English speakers. 

You never know, maybe learning these phrases will motivate you to go on and learn to speak German fluently.

Note:  Want to go beyond basic German phrases and learn German with confidence and fluency? The best way to do so is by working through a comprehensive and well designed course.

My top recommendation is   German Uncovered , my in-depth online German course for beginners that teaches you through the power of story. If you’re ready to get started,  click here for a 7-day FREE trial.

If you want to make a good impression with German speakers, you'll need a few basic phrases to meet and greet people.

After all, you're going to use greetings every time you have a conversation in German!

These phrases are simple, easy to remember and will help you make new German friends. 

#1 Hallo – Hello [any time of day]

#2 Hallo, wie geht’s? – Hello, how are you?

#3 Guten Morgen  – Good morning

#4 Guten Tag [lit. good day] – Good afternoon

#5 Guten Abend  – Good evening

#6 Gute Nacht  – Good night

#7 Vielen Dank  – Thank you very much

#8 Ich danke Ihnen auch –  Thank you, too [in reply to “thank you” from someone else else]

#9 Tschüss, bis zum nächsten Mal  – Goodbye, see you next time

#10 Schönes Wetter heute, nicht wahr? – It's lovely weather today, is not it?

#11 Mein Name ist _  – My name is _____

#12 Ich bin Amerikaner, Kanadier, Engländer (male)  – I'm American / Canadian / English

#13 Ich bin Amerikanerin, Kanadierin, Engländerin (female)  – I'm American / Canadian / English

#14 Woher kommen Sie? – Where are you from?

#15 Freut mich  – Nice to meet you!

⬑ Jump back to the contents

“I Do Not Understand!” – Getting Out Of Sticky Situations

It might seem a little intimidating to speak German, especially if you're new to the language. German people will be understanding if you're struggling to get your message across or catch what they say .

At the same time, don't hesitate to use these expressions to help the conversation run smoothly if you don't understand something or need a little help.

#16 Es tut mir leid, aber ich verstehe nicht  – I'm sorry, but I do not understand

#17  Ich spreche nicht gut Deutsch  – I do not speak German very well

#18 Können Sie das bitte wiederholen? – Could you say that again please?

#19 Können Sie bitte langsamer sprechen? – Could you say that more slowly please?

#20  Schreiben Sie das bitte für mich auf – Please write that down for me

#21 Was bedeutet das? – What does that mean?

#22 Sprechen Sie Englisch? – Do you speak English?

#23  Es tut mir leid – I'm sorry

#24  Ich weiß nicht – I do not know

#25 In Ordnung  – All right

#26  Macht nichts – never mind

Whether you're at the supermarket, ordering in a restaurant, or just having a normal conversation, it's essential to know how to use numbers in German. Eins, zwei, drei….l et's get to it!

• null – zero
• eins – one
• zwei – two
• drei – three
• vier – four
• fünf  – five
• sechs  – six
• sieben – seven
• acht – eight
• neun – nine
• zehn – ten
• elf – eleven
• zwölf – twelve
• dreizehn – thirteen
• vierzehn – fourteen
• fünfzehn – fifteen
• sechzehn – sixteen
• siebzehn – seventeen
• achtzehn – eighteen
• neunzehn – nineteen
• zwanzig  – twenty
• einundzwanzig – twenty-one
• zweiundzwanzig – twenty-two
• dreiundzwanzig   – twenty-three
• vierundzwanzig – twenty-four
• fünfundzwanzig – twenty-five
• sechsundzwanzig – twenty-six
• siebenundzwanzig   – twenty-seven
• achtundzwanzig – twenty-eight
• neunundzwanzig – twenty-nine
• dreißig – thirty
• einunddreißig – thirty-one
• zweiunddreißig – thirty-two
• vierzig – forty
• fünfzig – fifty
• sechzig – sixty
• siebzig – seventy
• achtzig – eighty
• neunzig – ninety
• hundert  – one hundred
• zweihundertfünfzig – two hundred and fifty
• fünfhundert – five hundred
• siebenhundertdreiundachtzig – seven hundred and eighty three
• tausend – one thousand

One of the most enjoyable cultural experiences you can have in a German-speaking country is visiting a restaurant and trying out some of the delicious local dishes.

The following phrases cover all the questions and statements you need to make when eating out, from asking for a table to paying the bill!

#27 Ein Tisch für eine Person bitte  – A table for one, please

#28 Ein Tisch für zwei Personen, bitte  – A table for two, please

#29 Haben Sie schon auf? – Are you open yet?

#30 Können wir (auf einen Tisch) warten? – Can we wait (for a table)?

#31 Können wir dort sitzen? – Can we sit over there?

#32 Entschuldigung! – Excuse me! [Calling a waiter]

#33 Was empfehlen Sie? – What do you recommend?

#34 Was ist das beliebteste Gericht? – What's your most popular dish?

#35 Was ist das? – What is this?

#36 Was für Bier haben Sie?  – What type of beer do you have?

#37 Ein kleines Bier bitte  – A small beer, please

#38 Ein großes Bier bitte  – A large beer, please

#39 Bringen Sie mir bitte eine Auswahl von leckeren Sachen  – Please bring me a selection of nice things

#40 Bitte wählen Sie etwas  – It's up to you / You can decide

#41 Die Rechnung, bitte  – The bill, please

#42 Kann ich bitte die Speisekarte haben? – Can I have the menu, please?

By the way, if you're interested in food and drink as it relates to German culture, take a look at this post about Oktoberfest, the world-famous Bavarian beer festival. 

There are lots of practicalities to consider when taking a trip to Germany, including finding your way around. Finding the right train or bus on time isn’t always easy and you don’t want to end up being the ‘foreigner’ who is holding up the ticket queue!

In this section, you’ll learn some key transport phrases that will help you quickly and easily navigate your way around any German-speaking city or country.

#43 Ich möchte nach _____  – I want to go to

#44 Wann fährt der nächste Zug / Bus nach _____? – What time is the next train/bus to __ ?

#45 Was kostet das? – How much is it?

#46 Einmal/ zweimal (nach _____), bitte – 1 ticket / 2 tickets (to _____), please

#47 Wie lange dauert das? – How long does it take?

#48 Wohin muss ich jetzt gehen? – Where should I go now?

#49 Wann fährt er ab? – When does it leave?

#50 Wie spät ist es (jetzt)? – What time is it (now)?

#51 Hält der Zug/ Bus in _ ? – Does this train/bus stop in _____?

#52 Entschuldigen Sie, ist dies _____? – Excuse me, is this _____ ? [Useful when you're on the bus / train and are not sure when to get off]

#53 Können Sie das bitte für mich aufschreiben? – Can you write that down for me?

#54 Zeigen Sie mir das bitte auf der Karte? – Can you show me on the map?

#55 Wo ist _____ auf der Karte? – Where is _____  on the map?

Asking For Directions In German 

Public transport in Germany is notoriously excellent, but there are some places you'll need to walk or drive to yourself. And for most of us, that means occasionally getting lost and asking for directions!

Here are the phrases you need to ask and receive directions in German:

#56 Entschuldigung, darf ich Sie etwas fragen? –  Excuse me, could I ask you something?

#57  Ich möchte nach _____  – I want to go to _ [If you know the name of your destination]

#58  Ich möchte dahin  – I want to go here [Pointing to your destination on the map]

#59 Ich habe mich verlaufen  – I'm lost (on foot)

#60 Ich habe mich verfahren  – I'm lost (by car)

#61 Wie komme ich dahin? – How can I get there?

#62 Geht es hier lang? – Is it this way? [Useful for checking if you're walking in the right direction]

#63 Zeigen Sie mir das bitte auf der Karte? – Can you show me on the map?

#64 Wo ist __? – Where is _ ?

Shopping And Grabbing A Bargain In German

Whether you're at the supermarket, the shopping centre or the local farmer's market you're going to buy things at some point or another!

And even haggle a bit –  just like you would in English. Grab a bargain in German with these sentences. 

#65  Das gefällt mir  – I like this

#66 Was kostet das? – How much is this?

#67 Bitte wiederholen Sie das  – Can you say that again please?

#68 Schreiben Sie das bitte für mich auf? – Can you write that down for me?

#69 Und wenn ich das alles kaufe? – If I buy these together? [A useful way to knock the price down]

#70 Das ist mir zu teuer  – it's too expensive for me

#71 Geben Sie mir einen Rabatt? – Can you give me a discount?

#72  Ich suche nach _____  – I'm looking for a _____

#73  Ich schaue mich nur um – I'm just looking around

#74 Danke, ich suche noch weiter  – Thank you, I'll keep looking [if you're getting hassled to buy something]

#75 Moment, bitte  – Just a moment

#76 Ja, bitte  – Yes, please

#77 Nein, danke  – No, thanks

Dealing With Medical Emergencies In German 

Hopefully, you'll never need the phrases in this section! Nonetheless, it's always good to know some basic medical vocabulary so that you can handle an emergency if you're unwell or have an accident.

#78 Können Sie mir bitte helfen? – Can you help me, please?

#79 Ich brauche einen Arzt  – I need to see a doctor

#80  Es geht mir nicht gut – I do not feel well

#81  Es geht ihm/ihr nicht gut – he / she does not feel well

#82 Gibt es ein Krankenhaus in der Nähe? – Is there a hospital near here?

#83 Fahren Sie mich bitte zum Krankenhaus  – Take me to the hospital [To a taxi driver]

#84 Es tut hier weh  – It hurts here [pointing to body part]

#85 Ich brauche Medizin  – I need some medicine

Finding Hidden Gems In German-Speaking Countries 

I've included a couple of questions you can ask the locals, so you can find the hidden gems in their cities and have a more authentic German experience!

#86 Es tut mir leid, Sie zu stören, aber…  – I'm sorry to bother you, but …

#87 Kann ich Sie schnell etwas fragen? – Could I ask you something quickly?

#88 Ich suche ein Restaurant mit gutem Essen hier in der Nähe  – I'm looking for a place with good food around here

#89  Ich suche ein nettes Café in der Nähe  – I'm looking for a nice cafe in the area

#90 Wissen Sie etwas über _____?  – Do you know anything about _____ ?

#91 Gibt es hier in der Nähe etwas Interessantes zu sehen? – Is there anything interesting to see in this area?

#92 Trotzdem danke  – Thank you anyway [if the person can not help you]

Your Next Steps In German

So there you have it: a collection of German expressions to help you get started on your new adventure!

With these phrases in your back pocket, you'll soon find yourself having your first basic conversations and getting excited about continuing to improve your German .

So now that you've learned the basics, are you ready to take the next step in your German adventure?

I'm a big believer in the power of story to enable you to learn a language . That's why I've created an entire beginner course to help you learn German online by immersing yourself in a compelling story.

It's my German Uncovered course, and it's designed to take you from beginner to B1 Intermediate level.

Click here for more information on the course and how it'll help you.

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