Guten Tag! If you’re planning a trip to a German-speaking country, learning how to say “reservation” in German can be extremely useful. Whether you need to book a hotel room, reserve a table at a restaurant, or make any other type of reservation, this guide will help you navigate the formal and informal ways to express your request. We’ll also explore a few regional variations along the way. So, let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say “Reservation”
If you wish to express your request in a formal context, such as speaking to a hotel concierge or making a reservation over the phone, you can use the following phrases:
1. “Reservierung”
The most common and straightforward translation for “reservation” in German is “Reservierung.” This term is widely understood and used throughout German-speaking countries. For example, you could say:
“Guten Tag, ich möchte eine Reservierung für ein Doppelzimmer machen, bitte.” (Good day, I would like to make a reservation for a double room, please.)
2. “Buchung”
Another formal option to express a reservation is “Buchung.” While slightly less common than “Reservierung,” it is still widely recognized. Here’s an example of how to use it:
“Guten Abend, ich hätte gerne eine Buchung für zwei Personen in Ihrem Restaurant.” (Good evening, I would like to make a reservation for two people in your restaurant.)
Informal Ways to Say “Reservation”
When it comes to informal situations or speaking with friends, you have a couple of alternatives. These options are more suitable for casual conversations rather than professional settings.
1. “Resi”
One common informal way to refer to a reservation is by using the term “Resi.” This word is derived from “Reservierung” and widely used among friends or in relaxed settings. Here’s an example:
“Hey, könntest du bitte eine kleine Resi für den Tisch im Café machen?” (Hey, could you please make a small reservation for the table at the café?)
2. “Tischreservierung”
Another informal option, specifically when making a restaurant reservation, is to use the term “Tischreservierung.” While a bit more formal than “Resi,” it is still commonly used among friends. Here’s an example:
“Lasst uns eine Tischreservierung für acht Uhr im Italienischen Restaurant machen.” (Let’s make a table reservation for 8 o’clock at the Italian restaurant.)
Regional Variations
While the formal and informal ways to say “reservation” are generally understood across German-speaking countries, there are a few regional variations you might encounter:
1. Switzerland
In Switzerland, people often use the term “Reservation,” which aligns with the German-speaking parts of the country. However, in the French-speaking regions, you might hear “Réservation,” and in the Italian-speaking regions, “Prenotazione” is more commonly used.
2. Austria
In Austria, the word “Reservierung” is commonly used, similar to Germany, but some regions might also use the term “Platzreservierung.”
Tips and Examples
Here are a few tips and additional examples to help you confidently use the various expressions for “reservation” in German:
Tips:
- Always try to use the formal expressions when dealing with professional contexts or interacting with people you are not familiar with.
- When speaking with friends or in a casual setting, feel free to use the more informal expressions.
- Remember to show politeness by using “Bitte” (please) when making a formal reservation.
- Double-check the pronunciation of these phrases to ensure clear communication.
Examples:
1. “Ich möchte eine Reservierung für eine Woche im Hotel machen, bitte.” (I would like to make a reservation for one week at the hotel, please.)
2. “Können Sie mir eine Buchung für den Flughafentransfer arrangieren?” (Can you arrange a reservation for the airport transfer for me?)
3. “Lasst uns eine kleine Resi für Samstagabend in der Bar machen.” (Let’s make a small reservation for Saturday evening at the bar.)
4. “Wir benötigen eine Tischreservierung für drei Personen im Biergarten.” (We need a table reservation for three people at the beer garden.)
Now armed with these formal and informal expressions for “reservation” in German, you’re ready to confidently make bookings and enjoy your trip to a German-speaking country. Viel Spaß!
