Germans are known for their precision and efficiency, and they take pride in the accuracy of their language. So, if you find yourself in a situation where you need someone to repeat what they just said in German, here’s a guide to help you express that in both formal and informal settings. Whether you’re in Berlin, Munich, or any other German-speaking region, these phrases will help you navigate conversations with ease.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Could You Repeat That” in German
When you’re in a formal environment or speaking to someone you should address with respect, these phrases will come in handy:
“Entschuldigen Sie bitte, könnten Sie das wiederholen?”
Translation: “Excuse me, could you repeat that?”
This polite phrase is appropriate to use in professional settings, such as during business meetings, presentations, or formal interviews. It shows respect and acknowledges the importance of clear communication.
“Könnten Sie das bitte noch einmal sagen?”
Translation: “Could you please say that again?”
This approach is slightly more direct but still maintains a formal tone. It is suitable for situations where you need the speaker to repeat themselves but want to be a bit more concise.
Informal Ways to Say “Could You Repeat That” in German
If you find yourself in a casual conversation with friends, family, or acquaintances, these informal phrases will serve you well:
“Kannst du das bitte wiederholen?”
Translation: “Can you please repeat that?”
This is a straightforward and common phrasing used in everyday conversations among friends, and it works well in informal settings where a more relaxed tone is appropriate.
“Nochmal, bitte?”
Translation: “Again, please?”
A much more casual and informal way to ask someone to repeat themselves. This phrase is typically used among close friends or when you’re in a comfortable and relaxed environment.
Tips and Examples
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when asking someone to repeat themselves in German:
- Pronunciation: Practice the correct pronunciation of these phrases to ensure clarity when communicating. Pay attention to the intonation and stress on certain syllables, as it can affect the meaning of the sentence.
- Body Language: Use appropriate body language, such as leaning in and maintaining eye contact, to convey your interest in understanding and encourage the speaker to repeat their words.
- Politeness: It’s always essential to be polite when asking someone to repeat themselves. Saying “please” and using phrases like “excuse me” show respect and improve the overall tone of the conversation.
Now, let’s look at a few example situations where you may need to ask someone to repeat themselves in German:
Example 1:
You’re attending a business conference in Munich, and one of the presenters speaks too quickly for you to understand.
You: Entschuldigen Sie bitte, könnten Sie das wiederholen?
Speaker: Natürlich, gerne! Ich werde langsamer sprechen.
Example 2:
You’re at a restaurant in Berlin and are having difficulty understanding the waiter’s explanation of the daily specials.
You: Kannst du das bitte noch einmal sagen?
Waiter: Ja, natürlich! Hier sind die heutigen Tagesgerichte…
Example 3:
You’re having a conversation with a new German friend, and they use a slang term you’re unfamiliar with.
You: Kannst du das bitte wiederholen?
Friend: Oh, tut mir leid! Das bedeutet so viel wie…
Remember, practice is key when it comes to learning a new language. The more you use these phrases and engage in conversations, the better your understanding and fluency in German will become.
So the next time you encounter a situation where you need someone to repeat themselves in German, whether it’s in a formal or informal context, you’ll be well-prepared to confidently ask, “Could you repeat that?”+
