Guten Tag! If you’re looking to find out how to say “anyway” in German, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various ways to express this versatile word in both formal and informal contexts. Our focus will primarily be on standard German, while also highlighting regional variations when necessary. Throughout this guide, we’ll provide you with tips, examples, and insights to ensure you can effectively communicate “anyway” in German.
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Formal Ways to Say “Anyway” in German
When it comes to formal situations, such as business meetings or conversations with people you don’t know well, it’s essential to use appropriate language. Here are some formal expressions to convey the meaning of “anyway” in German:
Egal wie – Literally translates to “no matter how.” This phrase is commonly used in formal contexts to convey a sense of regardless or in any case.
Example: Wir müssen diese Aufgabe so schnell wie möglich erledigen, egal wie schwierig es ist. (We need to complete this task as quickly as possible, anyway, no matter how difficult it is.)
Wie dem auch sei – Equivalent to “be that as it may” or “however.” This formal expression is often used to introduce a contrasting or concessive statement.
Example: Das Projekt ist aufgrund unvorhergesehener Schwierigkeiten gescheitert. Wie dem auch sei, wir sollten unsere Erfahrungen nutzen und beim nächsten Mal vorsichtiger sein. (The project failed due to unforeseen difficulties. Anyway, we should use our experiences and be more cautious next time.)
Informal Ways to Say “Anyway” in German
When it comes to informal conversations with friends, family, or acquaintances, you can use more casual expressions to convey the meaning of “anyway” in German. Here are some informal ways to do so:
Egal – The word “egal” is a common, versatile term used in informal contexts. It can be used to mean “anyway,” “regardless,” or “nevertheless.”
Example: Ich weiß, dass wir uns heute nicht treffen können. Aber ich wollte dir sowieso etwas erzählen. (I know we can’t meet today, but I wanted to tell you something anyway.)
Auf jeden Fall – Literally translates to “in any case” or “definitely.” This expression is commonly used in informal conversations to emphasize a point or confirm something.
Example: Das Restaurant war geschlossen, also haben wir uns einfach Pizza bestellt. Auf jeden Fall haben wir uns gut amüsiert. (The restaurant was closed, so we just ordered pizza. Anyway, we had a good time for sure.)
Regional Variations
German is spoken in various regions, each with its own distinct dialects and variations. While the expressions mentioned above are widely understood throughout Germany, there might be regional differences. Here are some examples:
- Bavarian: In Bavaria, “Wie dem a so sei” might be used.
- Austrian: Austrians may use “Wie auch immer” or “Auf alle Fälle.”
Remember that these regional variations may not be as universally understood outside of their respective regions, so it’s generally best to stick to the standard German expressions mentioned earlier.
So, there you have it—an in-depth guide on how to say “anyway” in German. Whether you’re in a formal or informal setting, you now have a range of expressions at your disposal. By using these phrases, you can confidently carry on conversations and convey your intended meaning. Viel Glück!
