When learning a new language like German, it’s important to familiarize yourself with common phrases and expressions. One such phrase is “according to,” which is commonly used to express information obtained from a source. In German, there are a few different ways to convey this concept, depending on the context and level of formality. In this guide, we will explore various ways to say “according to” in German, including both formal and informal expressions.
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Formal Ways to Say “According to” in German
If you are writing a formal document or having a formal conversation, here are some phrases you can use to convey “according to” in German:
1. Gemäß
The term “gemäß” is one of the most common and formal ways to express “according to” in German. It is often used in legal or official contexts. For example:
Gemäß dem Bericht des Bundesamtes für Statistik…
(According to the report from the Federal Statistical Office…)
Gemäß den Vorschriften müssen Sie…
2. Laut
The word “laut” can also be used formally to mean “according to.” It is often used in news reporting or quoting sources. Here are a few examples:
Laut dem Experten sind die Aussichten vielversprechend.
(According to the expert, the prospects are promising.)
Laut einer aktuellen Studie…
Informal Ways to Say “According to” in German
When speaking in a more casual or informal setting, you can use the following expressions to convey “according to” in German:
1. Nach
The term “nach” is commonly used in spoken German to mean “according to.” It is less formal than “gemäß” or “laut.” Here are a few examples:
Nach meiner Erfahrung ist das keine gute Idee.
(According to my experience, that is not a good idea.)
Nach Angaben der Polizei…
2. Zufolge
The word “zufolge” is another informal way to express “according to” in German. It is often used in informal writing or speech. Here are a few examples:
Dem Bericht zufolge…
(According to the report…)
Ihrer Aussage zufolge…
Regional Variations
While German is primarily spoken in Germany, there are some regional variations in how “according to” is expressed. One such variation is found in Austria and parts of southern Germany, where the phrase “nach Aussage von” is commonly used instead of “laut.” For example:
Nach Aussage des Experten…
Nach Aussage einer Studie…
Tips and Examples
Here are some additional tips and examples to help you understand the usage of “according to” in German:
- Context Matters: Consider the context before choosing the most suitable expression. Formal settings may require “gemäß” or “laut,” while informal ones may use “nach” or “zufolge.”
- Use Verbs Correctly: When using “gemäß” or “laut,” remember to place the verb at the end of the sentence. For example: “Gemäß dem Bericht des Bundesamtes für Statistik…“
- Practice Listening: Listen to native speakers or watch German news channels to familiarize yourself with the correct pronunciation and usage of “according to” in various contexts.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: To improve your German language skills, expand your vocabulary by learning synonyms and related phrases for “according to.”
Remember to practice using these phrases in different contexts to become more comfortable with their usage.
In conclusion, understanding how to say “according to” in German is essential when communicating or writing in the language. Whether you choose the formal expressions like “gemäß” or “laut” or the more informal options like “nach” or “zufolge,” these phrases will enable you to express information obtained from a source accurately. Keep in mind the specific context and level of formality when selecting the appropriate phrase. Happy learning!
