What does it mean word for word?
The phrase Freut mich literally translates to 'It pleases me.'
Which one should you use?
Depending on the level of formality and the specific nuance you want to convey, you might use different versions: Freut mich is a common, standard/neutral way to say 'Nice to meet you.' For a more formal tone, you can use Es freut mich, Sie kennenzulernen (I'm glad to meet you), Es ist mir ein Vergnügen, Sie kennenzulernen (It's my pleasure to meet you) or Ich bin erfreut, Sie kennenzulernen (I am delighted to meet you). In an informal setting, you can say Schön, dich kennenzulernen (Nice to meet you), Freu mich, dich kennenzulernen (Happy to meet you) or Es freut mich, dich zu treffen (I'm glad to meet you). For high-society or professional settings, Sehr erfreut serves as a more formal alternative meaning 'Very pleased.'
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Freut mich is a shortened, more casual way of expressing pleasure at meeting someone compared to the full sentence. For formal situations, use Es freut mich, Sie kennenzulernen, Es ist mir ein Vergnügen, Sie kennenzulernen, Ich bin erfreut, Sie kennenzulernen, or Sehr erfreut. For informal situations, you can use Schön, dich kennenzulernen, Freu mich, dich kennenzulernen, or Es freut mich, dich zu treffen.
How does it change in a sentence?
The full, grammatically complete version of the phrase is Es freut mich, [person] kennenzulernen.
When do people say it?
A common and natural response to Freut mich is Gleichfalls, which means 'Likewise' or 'The feeling is mutual.'
Did you know?
- In Germany, a firm handshake and direct eye contact are essential when saying Freut mich. Avoiding eye contact during this greeting can be perceived as untrustworthy or disinterested.
- German has a specific concept called Vorfreude, which is the joy felt in anticipation of something, utilizing the same verb as Freut mich.
- The phrase Sehr erfreut is so formal that it can feel almost theatrical or old-fashioned in modern, everyday German social circles.
Examples in context
- Es freut mich, dich kennenzulernen, David!I'm glad to meet you David.This sentence is useful for expressing that you are glad to meet David.Tatoeba #13695663 by Waldelfe, translation #8242265 by josivangoncalves
- Es freut mich, Sie kennenzulernen. Woher kommen Sie?I'm glad to meet you. Where are you from?
- Schön, dich kennenzulernen. Bist du schon lange hier?Nice to meet you. Have you been here for long?
- Freut mich sehr, Frau Schmidt.Very glad to meet you, Ms. Schmidt.
Example conversation
Lukas and Laura meet for the first time at a business networking event.
- LukasGuten Tag, ich bin Lukas.Good day, I am Lukas.
- LauraHallo, ich bin Laura. Freut mich!Hello, I am Laura. Glad to meet you!
- LukasGanz meinerseits, Laura.The pleasure is mine, Laura.
- LauraSchön, Sie kennenzulernen.It is nice to meet you.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
