Germans use various words and phrases to express the concept of “about” in different contexts. Whether you want to discuss a particular topic, provide information, or inquire about something, understanding the appropriate German terms and expressions for “about” is essential. In this guide, we will explore formal and informal ways to convey this meaning, as well as provide tips, examples, and regional variations where necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “About” in German
1. Über: One of the most common translations for “about” in a formal context is “über.” It is versatile and can be used in various situations.
Example: Die Präsentation handelt von der aktuellen Situation auf dem Arbeitsmarkt. (The presentation is about the current situation in the job market.)
2. Bezüglich: This term is used to indicate “with respect to” or “regarding” in German formal language.
Example: Es gibt einige Fragen bezüglich Ihrer Bewerbung. (There are some questions regarding your application.)
Informal Ways to Say “About” in German
1. Was … angeht: This phrase is typically used in spoken language and translates to “as far as … is concerned.”
Example: Was das Abendessen angeht, wir könnten chinesisches Essen bestellen. (As far as dinner is concerned, we could order Chinese food.)
2. In Bezug auf: This informal phrase is similar to “bezüglich” but is more commonly used in casual conversations.
Example: In Bezug auf die Party habe ich noch nichts gehört. (I haven’t heard anything about the party.)
Regional Variations
While standard German is widely spoken and understood throughout Germany, there are some regional variations in the way “about” is expressed. Here are a few examples:
Bavarian German
In Bavaria, a southeastern state in Germany, the word “about” is often translated as “über” like in standard German.
Saxon German
Saxon German, spoken predominantly in the state of Saxony, uses “übers” as a colloquial variation of “über.”
Austrian German
In Austrian German, “about” can be expressed as “wegen.” However, similar to standard German, “über” is also commonly used.
Tips for Using “About” Appropriately
1. Consider the context: Different situations may demand different expressions for “about.” Assess the formality and context to select the most appropriate translation.
2. Practice with native speakers: Interacting with native German speakers will help you become familiar with the different ways “about” is used in conversation.
3. Be aware of regional differences: If you intend to communicate with people from different parts of the German-speaking world, it can be valuable to know regional variations for “about.”
Conclusion
Mastering the various ways to say “about” in German can greatly enhance your communicative abilities. In this guide, we explored both formal and informal translations, including “über,” “bezüglich,” “was … angeht,” and “in Bezug auf.” Additionally, we discussed regional variations and provided tips to help you understand and use these expressions appropriately. Remember to adapt your language choice to the situation and context, and don’t hesitate to practice speaking with native speakers to improve your fluency in German.
