Friede sei mit dir
The English phrase "peace be with you" is translated into German as Friede sei mit dir.
This phrase is primarily used in religious, liturgical or highly poetic contexts rather than in everyday casual conversation.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of Friede (peace), sei (be – subjunctive mood), mit (with) and dir (you – dative case).
Which one should you use?
Use Friede sei mit dir for one person you know well, and Friede sei mit Ihnen for one person you address formally.
How does it change in a sentence?
To address a group of people instead of an individual, change dir to euch. To use the formal "you" when addressing a single person, replace dir with Ihnen.
Did you know?
- Using this phrase in a casual setting like a cafe would be perceived as an intentional joke or a theatrical performance.
- The word Friede shares an ancient root with the English word 'free', reflecting a historical connection between being 'free' and living in a state of 'peace' or security.
- While 'Friede' means peace, the related German word 'Freund' (friend) stems from the same linguistic roots of protection and social peace.
Examples in context
- Friede sei mit dir.Peace be with you!This sentence is useful for seeing how to express the blessing Friede sei mit dir.Tatoeba #592235 by cost, translation #591762 by Manfredo
- Guten Tag! Friede sei mit Ihnen.Good day! Peace be with you.
- Hallo! Friede sei mit dir.Hello! Peace be with you.
- Friede sei mit dir und deiner Familie.Peace be with you and your family.
Example conversation
Julian and Sarah meet at a spiritual gathering.
- JulianHallo Sarah, Friede sei mit dir.Hello Sarah, peace be with you.
- SarahUnd auch mit dir, Julian.And also with you, Julian.
- JulianWie geht es dir heute?How are you doing today?
- SarahMir geht es sehr gut, danke.I am doing very well, thank you.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Friede, dir, mit, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
