Getting engaged is an exciting milestone in one’s life, and if you’re planning to share this special news with German-speaking friends or acquaintances, it’s important to know how to express it in their language. In this guide, we will explore various ways to say “engaged” in German, including formal and informal expressions. We will also provide tips, examples, and regional variations if applicable.
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Formal Expressions for Saying Engaged in German
If you’re in a formal setting or addressing people with whom you have a professional relationship, these formal expressions will come in handy:
- Verlobt – This is the most common and formal way to say “engaged” in German. It is used universally in both spoken and written language. For example:
Hanna und Jonas sind verlobt. (Hanna and Jonas are engaged.)
Wir haben uns verlobt – This phrase can be used to emphasize that both parties engaged in the act of getting engaged. It is also a polite way to announce your engagement. Example:
Wir haben uns verlobt und freuen uns, dies mit Ihnen zu teilen. (We got engaged and we are excited to share this news with you.)
Wir planen zu heiraten – Although this phrase directly translates to “We plan to get married,” it is often understood as an indication of being engaged. It is a more formal way to express your intention to marry. Example:
Wir planen zu heiraten und laden Sie herzlich ein, an unserem Glück teilzuhaben. (We plan to get married and invite you to share in our happiness.)
Wir haben uns verlobt und möchten dies bekannt geben – This formal expression is used when making an official engagement announcement, particularly in newspapers or public forums. Example:
Wir haben uns verlobt und möchten dies bekannt geben. Unsere Hochzeit findet am 10. August statt. (We got engaged and would like to announce it. Our wedding will take place on August 10th.)
Informal Expressions for Saying Engaged in German
If you’re sharing your engagement news with friends, family, or in a casual setting, these informal expressions will suit the occasion:
- Verlobt sein – This phrase is a casual way of saying “to be engaged” in German. Example:
Schau mal, ich bin verlobt! (Look, I am engaged!)
Wir haben uns verlobt und wollen heiraten – This informal expression is commonly used among friends and acquaintances. It conveys the excitement of the engagement and the intention to marry. Example:
Endlich haben wir uns verlobt und wollen nächstes Jahr heiraten! (We finally got engaged and plan to get married next year!)
Wir haben uns verlobt und sind überglücklich – This informal phrase emphasizes the happiness and joyousness of the engaged couple. Example:
Wir haben uns verlobt und sind überglücklich! (We got engaged and we are overjoyed!)
Ich habe einen Antrag bekommen/gemacht – This expression focuses on the proposal aspect of the engagement. It can be used by both men and women. Example:
Ich habe einen Antrag bekommen und natürlich sofort Ja gesagt! (I got a proposal and, of course, said yes right away!)
Regional Variations
German is spoken in several countries, and there may be regional variations in how engaged is expressed. However, the formal expression “verlobt” is widely understood and accepted throughout the German-speaking world. While you may come across some local terms or dialects, it is generally recommended to use the more universal expressions mentioned earlier.
Tips for Announcing Your Engagement in German
Here are some useful tips and additional information to consider when announcing your engagement in German:
- Consider the context: Decide whether a formal or informal expression is appropriate based on the relationship and setting in which you’re sharing the news.
- Use appropriate greetings: When writing an engagement announcement, it is common to greet the recipients politely, such as “Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren” (Dear ladies and gentlemen) for a formal announcement, or “Liebe Freunde” (Dear friends) for a more informal announcement.
- Add personal touches: Include details about your engagement story, how and where it happened, and any special plans you have for the future. This will make your announcement more engaging and authentic.
- Share your joy: Express your happiness and excitement about the engagement. Emphasize how much this milestone means to you and how you look forward to sharing your future together.
- Consider language variations: If your recipient group includes speakers from different German-speaking countries, consider using more neutral terms and phrases to ensure everyone can understand and relate to your announcement.
Congratulations on your engagement! Wishing you a love-filled and joyful future together.
