Germans value politeness and efficiency in their communication, so it’s essential to know the appropriate way to say “Please see attached” in both formal and informal contexts. Whether you are writing an email, a letter, or any other form of written communication, the phrases you choose can greatly impact the overall tone and impression you make. In this guide, we will explore various ways to express this request in German, providing you with tips, examples, and explanations to ensure you use the most suitable phrase for each situation.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Phrases
In a formal context, such as when communicating with colleagues, clients, or superiors, it is crucial to use respectful language. Here are a few phrases you can employ:
1.1 “Bitte finden Sie anbei”
This phrase directly translates to “Please find attached” in English. It is widely used and considered formal and appropriate in professional settings.
Beispiel: “Sehr geehrte Frau Müller, bitte finden Sie anbei die angeforderten Dateien für das Projekt.”
1.2 “Im Anhang finden Sie bitte”
This phrase follows a more indirect structure and translates as “Please find in the attachment.” It is also commonly used in formal written communication.
Beispiel: “Sehr geehrter Herr Schmidt, im Anhang finden Sie bitte die erforderlichen Unterlagen für Ihre Überprüfung.”
2. Informal Phrases
In less formal situations, such as when sending an email to friends, family, or close acquaintances, you can use a less rigid approach while still maintaining politeness. Here are a couple of phrases that would suit informal contexts:
2.1 “Sieh bitte den Anhang”
This phrase, which can be translated as “Please see the attachment,” is commonly used in informal written communication.
Beispiel: “Hallo Julia, du findest den Anhang bitte in der E-Mail. Sieh bitte den Anhang, wenn du Zeit hast.”
2.2 “Schau’ bitte in den Anhang”
This phrase carries a similar meaning to the previous one and can be translated as “Please look into the attachment.”
Beispiel: “Hey Max, ich habe dir die Datei per E-Mail geschickt. Schau’ bitte in den Anhang, wenn du dazu kommst.”
3. Tips for Using These Phrases
Now that you have some phrases to work with, here are a few tips to keep in mind while using them:
- Attachments: Make sure that the document or file you want the recipient to see is attached before using any of the phrases mentioned above. Double-check to avoid confusion or misunderstandings.
- Clear Subject Line: In your email or letter, use a subject line that specifies the attachment. For example, “Regarding the Attached Files” or “Attached Documents for Your Reference.” A clear subject line enables recipients to quickly identify the importance of the attachment.
- Grammar and Punctuation: Pay attention to proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation throughout your message. It ensures a professional and credible tone.
- Acknowledgment: If the recipient will need to take any action based on the attached files, include a clear request or suggestion in your message. For instance, “Please review the attached documents and provide your feedback by Friday.”
4. Conclusion
Crafting written communication in a polite and effective way is a vital skill. Now that you have learned various phrases to express “Please see attached” in German, both formally and informally, you can confidently choose the most fitting one for your specific context. Remember to consider the level of formality and choose your phrases accordingly, while also paying attention to grammar, attachments, and clear subject lines. By following these guidelines, you will ensure your message is respectful, clear, and efficient.
