Ich kann ein bisschen Deutsch
To say "I know a little bit of german" in German, use Ich kann ein bisschen Deutsch.
This phrase is used to state that you have a basic ability to speak or understand the German language.
What does it mean word for word?
The part ein bisschen literally means "a little bit".
Which one should you use?
While Ich kann ein bisschen Deutsch is the most common way to express this, Ich spreche ein bisschen Deutsch is also grammatically correct and focuses specifically on the act of speaking.
How does it change in a sentence?
When expressing the ability to speak a language, the verb können (to be able to) is used without the explicit verb sprechen (to speak).
Did you know?
- The word Deutsch shares an ancient root with the English word 'Dutch', as both originally described the language of the 'people' or the common vernacular.
- The phrase ein bisschen contains a diminutive suffix, '-chen', which makes the 'bit' feel smaller and more endearing than the original word for a 'bite', Bissen.
Examples in context
- Ja, ich spreche ein bisschen Deutsch.Yes, I speak a little bit of German.
- Ja, ich kann ein bisschen Deutsch.Yes, I can speak a little bit of German.
Example conversation
Maximilian and Sarah are meeting at a cafe in Berlin.
- MaximilianSprichst du Deutsch, Sarah?Do you speak German, Sarah?
- SarahIch kann ein bisschen Deutsch.I know a little bit of German.
- MaximilianDas ist sehr gut!That is very good!
- SarahDanke, Maximilian.Thanks, Maximilian.
