What does it mean word for word?
The phrase können Sie Englisch? literally translates to "Can you English?" because the verb können (to be able to) is used instead of wissen (to know a fact).
Which one should you use?
You can also use Kannst du Englisch sprechen? to ask "Can you speak English?" in an informal context. For a more professional tone, you can ask Haben Sie Englischkenntnisse?, which means "Do you have English skills?"
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Swiss German, a variation for asking if someone knows English is Chasch Englisch rede?
How does it change in a sentence?
The informal version uses the singular du instead of the formal Sie.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈkœnən ziː ˈɛŋlɪʃ/
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid saying Wissen Sie Englisch? English speakers often mistakenly use wissen (to know a fact) instead of können (to have a skill) when asking about language proficiency.
When do people say it?
A common and natural response to this question is Ja, ein bisschen (Yes, a little.). A polite way to say you do not speak the language is Nein, leider nicht.
Did you know?
- The verb können is a distant relative of the English word 'know'. Both descend from a Proto-Indo-European root meaning 'to know'.
- In Germany, asking können Sie Englisch? can sometimes be perceived as a request for help rather than a simple question about skill.
- The formal Sie is used even with strangers who are younger than the speaker, which is a stricter social boundary than in many English-speaking cultures.
Example conversation
Laura is asking Julian for help at a hotel reception.
- LauraEntschuldigung, können Sie Englisch?Excuse me, do you know English?
- JulianJa, ein bisschen.Yes, a little bit.
- LauraIch habe eine Frage.I have a question.
- JulianGerne, wie kann ich helfen?Gladly, how can I help?
