Which one should you use?
While u.A.w.g. is a shorthand instruction, you can also use the full phrase Um Antwort wird gebeten to say 'A response is requested' or the more concise formal alternative Bitte antworten to say 'Please reply'.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The abbreviation u.A.w.g. is a formal way to request a response on invitations. Other formal options include Um Antwort wird gebeten, Bitte um Rückmeldung and Bitte antworten. For informal situations, you should use Bitte Bescheid geben to say 'Please let me know'.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Austria, the formal way to express RSVP is Um Antwort wird ersucht.
How does it change in a sentence?
The abbreviation u.A.w.g. is used as a shorthand instruction on invitations rather than as a conjugated verb, and it is typically followed by a specific date to indicate the deadline for the response.
Did you know?
- The abbreviation u.A.w.g. is actually a complete sentence in a passive form, meaning 'An answer is being requested'.
- Unlike the English 'RSVP', which is a French loanword, u.A.w.g. is a purely German construction meaning 'it is asked for an answer'.
- The phrase Bescheid geben is the standard way to 'RSVP' informally, which literally means 'to give notice'.
Examples in context
- Bitte u.A.w.g. bis Ende der Woche.Please RSVP by the end of the week.
Example conversation
Julian and Laura are discussing a birthday invitation.
- JulianHast du die Einladung von Sarah gesehen?Did you see the invitation from Sarah?
- LauraJa, aber ich muss erst noch u.A.w.g.Yes, but I still have to RSVP.
- JulianWir sollten das heute erledigen.We should take care of that today.
- LauraDu hast recht, ich schreibe ihr jetzt.You are right, I will write to her now.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries u.A.w.g., CC BY-SA 4.0.
