viel Spaß
/fiːl ʃpaːs/word by word
The German phrase for "enjoy it" is viel Spaß.
The phrase is used to wish someone a good time during an activity.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "much fun".
How does it change in a sentence?
While Viel Spaß! literally translates to "much fun", it is used as a complete imperative sentence to mean "Have fun!" or "Enjoy it!"
How do you pronounce it?
/fiːl ʃpaːs/
Did you know?
- The word Spaß is actually an Italian loanword. It comes from the Italian spasso, which originally meant 'to stretch out' or 'to pass the time'.
- While viel Spaß is a friendly wish, using it sarcastically is common when someone is facing a tedious or difficult task.
- If you want to be more specific about enjoying a meal, you might say Guten Appetit instead of Viel Spaß. Using Viel Spaß while someone is eating can actually sound a bit odd or too casual.
Examples in context
- Genießen Sie es!Enjoy it!
- Machen Sie es sich schön!Make it nice for yourself! or Make it beautiful!
- Viel Spaß!Have fun! or Enjoy!
- Genießen Sie es und haben Sie einen wundervollen Abend!Enjoy it and have a wonderful evening!
- Viel Spaß und genieß die Natur!Have fun and enjoy the nature!
- Viel Spaß im Kino!Enjoy it at the cinema!
Example conversation
Felix is seeing Laura off as she leaves for a concert.
- FelixGehst du jetzt zum Konzert?Are you going to the concert now?
- LauraJa, ich bin schon sehr aufgeregt.Yes, I am already very excited.
- FelixDann viel Spaß dabei, Laura!Then enjoy it, Laura!
- LauraDanke, Felix! Bis später.Thanks, Felix! See you later.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (viel, Spaß) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Spaß, viel, CC BY-SA 4.0.
