Learning how to say “lassen” properly can greatly enhance your German language skills. Whether you need to express the act of letting or allowing something, or using “lassen” in other contexts like ordering food or giving permission, we will cover all the essential tips and examples for both formal and informal situations. While we’ll primarily focus on standard German, we’ll also touch upon regional variations where relevant. So, let’s dive in and master the art of saying “lassen”!
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Formal ways of saying “lassen”
When it comes to formal usage, it’s important to maintain a polite and respectful tone. Here are some examples of formal phrases that include the keyword “lassen”:
1. To let/allow someone do something
Sie lassen mich bitte ausreden.
(Please let me finish speaking.)
This formal phrase can be used in professional settings, such as meetings or presentations, to request permission to continue speaking. Remember to use the polite imperative form of “lassen” (lassen + pronoun) and add “bitte” for politeness.
2. To have something done by someone else
Können Sie das Fenster bitte öffnen lassen?
(Could you have the window opened, please?)
This construction is often used in formal situations to ask someone to delegate a specific task to another person. Note the use of the polite form “Können Sie” (Could you) and the addition of “bitte” for politeness.
3. To order food in a restaurant
Ich möchte bitte die Suppe servieren lassen.
(I would like to have the soup served, please.)
If you want to convey your wish to have a specific dish served in a restaurant, this phrase is a polite way to do so. Replace “die Suppe” with the item you’d like to be served. The addition of “möchte” adds a polite touch to the request.
Informal ways of saying “lassen”
When speaking with friends, family, or in casual settings, you can opt for a more relaxed tone. Here are some examples of informal phrases using “lassen”:
1. To let someone do something
Lass mich bitte ausschlafen!
(Let me sleep in, please!)
When you want to request permission more informally, this sentence will do the trick. The use of “lass” (let) adds a more friendly tone, and “bitte” retains politeness even in an informal context.
2. To have something done by someone else
Kannst du bitte den Hund füttern lassen?
(Could you have someone feed the dog, please?)
If you need to delegate a task in an informal setting, this example conveys the request with a friendly tone. “Kannst du” (Can you) is a common way to make a casual ask.
3. To order food in a restaurant
Ich lass mir die Pizza schmecken!
(I’ll enjoy the pizza!)
In an informal context, you can use this phrase to express your eagerness to enjoy the food you’ve ordered. The use of “mir” (me) emphasizes your personal enjoyment.
Regional Variations
Standard German is widely understood in German-speaking regions, but some variations exist in specific local dialects. Here, we present one regional variation:
1. Bavarian Variation
In Bavarian dialects, “lassen” is often pronounced as “lassn.” For example:
Des mechad I ma lassn.
(I would like to have that.)
This variation may be encountered in Bavaria and parts of Austria. However, it’s important to note that standard German should be used in formal situations.
In Conclusion
Mastering the proper usage and pronunciation of “lassen” is a valuable skill for German learners. By following the tips and examples shared in this guide, you can confidently express yourself in formal and informal contexts. Remember to adapt your language according to the situation and always aim for a polite and respectful tone. Practice using “lassen” regularly, and soon you’ll find yourself effortlessly incorporating it into your German conversations!
