Können wir Freunde sein?
The English phrase "can we be friends?" is translated into German as Können wir Freunde sein?
This phrase is used to ask someone if they would like to start a friendship.
Which one should you use?
While Können wir Freunde sein? asks about the possibility or potential of a friendship, Wollen wir Freunde sein? more directly asks about the desire or intent to be friends.
How does it change in a sentence?
The use of wir (we) and the lack of formal address makes this version suitable for peers or people of a similar age group.
Did you know?
Examples in context
- Ich mag dich sehr. Können wir Freunde sein?I like you a lot. Can we be friends?
Example conversation
Two students meeting for the first time at school.
- SarahHi, ich bin Sarah. Können wir Freunde sein?Hi, I am Sarah. Can we be friends?
- LukasHallo Sarah, ich bin Lukas. Ja, gerne!Hello Sarah, I am Lukas. Yes, I'd love to!
- SarahSuper, hast du Lust auf eine Pause?Great, do you want to take a break?
- LukasJa, gehen wir zusammen in die Cafeteria.Yes, let's go to the cafeteria together.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries können, sein, wir, CC BY-SA 4.0.
