ordentlich sprechen
/ˈɔʁdəntlɪç ˈʃprɛçən/word by word
The German phrase for "speak properly" is ordentlich sprechen.
This phrase is often used by parents or teachers when a child is using slang, mumbling or being rude.
Which one should you use?
While ordentlich sprechen can mean speaking with correctness, it can also imply speaking neatly or clearly without mumbling.
How does it change in a sentence?
As an infinitive phrase, it can be used as a command by adding an imperative particle or changing the verb form, such as Sprich ordentlich! (Speak properly! – informal singular).
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈɔʁdəntlɪç ˈʃprɛçən/
Did you know?
- In German, ordentlich can be used as an intensifier meaning 'considerable' or 'a lot'. For example, ein ordentlicher Regen describes a heavy downpour rather than a 'proper' one.
- While English speakers might say 'speak clearly', using ordentlich in German adds a layer of social discipline, suggesting that the way one speaks reflects their inner self-discipline.
- The word ordentlich does not just refer to grammar or clarity, but also to being tidy. A person who is ordentlich is someone who keeps their room clean and organized.
Examples in context
- Ich möchte gerne einen Termin vereinbaren.I would like to make an appointment.
- Er kann nicht ordentlich sprechen.He cannot speak properly.
- Du musst in der Schule ordentlich sprechen.You must speak properly at school.
Example conversation
Lukas is using too much slang while talking to Julia.
- LukasIch hab' keine Zeit, echt jetzt.I've got no time, seriously.
- JuliaLukas, kannst du bitte ordentlich sprechen?Lukas, can you please speak properly?
- LukasWas meinst du damit?What do you mean by that?
- JuliaBenutz bitte keine so vielen Abkürzungen.Please don't use so many abbreviations.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (ordentlich, sprechen) and can differ in connected speech.
