If you are learning German or planning a trip to a German-speaking country, it’s essential to know how to say common phrases in various situations. One such phrase is “go ahead.” This guide will provide you with different ways to say “go ahead” in formal and informal contexts in the German language.
Table of Contents
1. Informal Ways to Say “Go Ahead”
Informal phrases are used among friends, family, and in casual settings.
A. “Mach weiter”
This is the most straightforward way to say “go ahead” in German casually. It directly translates to “carry on,” “continue,” or “keep going.”
Mach weiter und lass dich nicht aufhalten! (Go ahead and don’t let anyone stop you!)
B. “Leg los”
This phrase is commonly used to encourage someone to start or proceed with something. It translates to “get started” or “go for it.”
Leg los! Es gibt keinen Grund zu warten. (Go ahead! There’s no reason to wait.)
C. “Nur zu”
When someone asks for permission or confirmation to proceed, “Nur zu” can be used to say “go ahead” informally. It translates to “Just go ahead.”
Wenn du bereit bist, nur zu! (If you’re ready, go ahead!)
2. Formal Ways to Say “Go Ahead”
Formal phrases are used in professional settings, formal conversations, and when addressing people you don’t know well.
A. “Bitte, gehen Sie vor”
To say “go ahead” politely and formally, you can use this phrase. It translates to “Please, go ahead.”
Bitte, gehen Sie vor. Ich warte hier. (Please, go ahead. I’ll wait here.)
B. “Fahren Sie fort”
This phrase is suitable for formal situations and is used to give permission or encouragement for someone to continue. It translates to “Carry on” or “Proceed.”
Wenn Sie damit fertig sind, fahren Sie fort. (Once you’re done, go ahead.)
C. “Sie können beginnen”
This phrase is used in formal contexts when you want to give someone permission to start or proceed with something. It translates to “You may begin.”
Sie können beginnen, wenn Sie bereit sind. (You can go ahead when you’re ready.)
3. Regional Variations of “Go Ahead”
Though the German language is relatively standardized across regions, here are a few regional variations you may encounter:
A. Southern Germany and Austria
In southern Germany and Austria, the phrase “Hau rein” or “Hau drauf” is commonly used to say “go ahead.” It translates to “go for it” or “give it your best shot.”
Hau rein! Zeig ihnen, was du kannst! (Go ahead! Show them what you are capable of!)
B. Northern Germany
In the northern regions of Germany, you may come across the phrase “Mach mal” to say “go ahead” informally. It translates to “do it” or “go ahead.”
Mach mal, ich warte hier. (Go ahead; I’ll wait here.)
4. Tips and Usage Examples
Here are some additional tips and usage examples to help you further understand how to say “go ahead” in German:
- Remember to adjust your tone and choice of words based on the formality of the situation.
- If you’re unsure whether to use a formal or informal phrase, it’s better to err on the side of formality, especially when speaking to someone older or in a professional context.
- Non-verbal cues, such as nodding or gesturing, can accompany your choice of phrase to enhance clarity.
Usage Examples:
- Informal: Kann ich das Buch ausleihen? – Mach weiter! (Can I borrow the book? – Go ahead!)
- Formal: Darf ich den Bericht abgeben? – Ja, bitte, gehen Sie vor. (May I submit the report? – Yes, please, go ahead.)
Learning how to say “go ahead” in different contexts will greatly improve your ability to communicate effectively in German. Whether you’re speaking informally or formally, understanding these phrases will help you navigate various situations with ease.
So, now that you have learned different ways to say “go ahead” in German, “Mach weiter” and keep practicing! Viel Glück! (Good luck!)
