Nein, mein Herr
/naɪ̯n maɪ̯n hɛr/word by word
No, sir in German is Nein, mein Herr, a formal way to say no when speaking to a man.
Nein, mein Herr is very formal and can sound stiff or old fashioned in everyday German. Today people more often show respect by using the man's title and last name after Nein.
What does it mean word for word?
Nein means no. mein Herr literally means my lord or my gentleman.
Which one should you use?
To turn down an offer politely you can say Vielen Dank für Ihr Angebot, aber ich muss leider ablehnen, thank you very much for your offer, but I must decline.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Nein, mein Herr is highly formal.
How do you pronounce it?
Nein, mein Herr is pronounced /naɪ̯n maɪ̯n hɛr/. The first two words rhyme with English nine.
Did you know?
- The word Herr shares a surprising historical root with the English word 'hoar', meaning grey-haired. It originally described a person who was considered 'venerable' due to their grey hair.
- If you use mein Herr to address a stranger today, you might accidentally sound like you are parodying an old-fashioned film. Modern German etiquette prefers the use of professional titles like 'Herr Doktor' or 'Herr Schmidt' to show respect.
Example conversation
Laura is working at a hotel reception and Lukas is a guest.
- LukasHaben Sie noch ein Zimmer frei?Do you have another room available?
- LauraNein, mein Herr, wir sind ausgebucht.No, sir, we are fully booked.
- LukasDas ist wirklich sehr schade.That is really a pity.
- LauraTut mir leid, Herr Lukas.I am sorry, Mr. Lukas.
