What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is based on the separable verb ausrichten, which means to deliver or pass on. In a sentence, the prefix aus moves to the end of the clause.
Which one should you use?
While richte meine Grüße aus is a standard way to express this, you may also use beste Grüße (best regards), which is a more concise version often found in written correspondence.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
In formal settings, you should use the polite imperative richten Sie … aus. A common colloquial alternative used among friends and family is the much more informal Grüß ihn/sie von mir (Say hi to him/her for me).
How does it change in a sentence?
When specifying who should receive the regards, you use the dative case: ihm for him and ihr for her, as seen in the phrase richte ihm/ihr meine Grüße aus. In formal situations, the verb must be conjugated as richten Sie … aus instead of the informal richte.
Did you know?
- In historical German, you would use the verb empfehlen to convey regards, which literally means 'to recommend' yourself to the recipient.
- While English speakers use 'regards' as an abstract sentiment, the German structure richte … aus treats greetings as physical objects that must be 'delivered' to a destination.
- In German business emails, the phrase beste Grüße is followed by no punctuation at all, whereas English requires a comma after 'Best regards'.
Examples in context
- Bitte richten Sie meine Grüße aus. Ich hoffe, es geht Ihnen gut und dass Sie einen wunderbaren Tag haben.Please convey my regards. I hope you're doing well and having a wonderful day.
- Bitte richte meine Grüße aus.Please convey my regards.
Example conversation
Julian and Laura are talking about a mutual friend during a coffee break.
- JulianHast du gestern deine Tante gesehen?Did you see your aunt yesterday?
- LauraJa, wir haben kurz gesprochen.Yes, we spoke briefly.
- JulianBitte richte meine Grüße aus!Please convey my regards!
- LauraDas mache ich sehr gerne.I will do that gladly.
