Doggybag
The English phrase "to-go box" is translated into German as Doggybag.
A Doggybag refers to a container used to take leftover food from a restaurant home. You can use the phrase Kann ich das mitnehmen? as a simple way to ask if you can take leftovers with you.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Swiss German, you can ask for a to-go box by using the phrase E Schachtel zum Mitnäh.
How does it change in a sentence?
Doggybag is a masculine noun, which is der Doggybag in the singular. The plural form is die Doggybags.
Did you know?
- If you use the word Hund (dog) to ask for a container, a waiter might be quite confused, as the English-derived Doggybag is a specific loanword rather than a literal description.
- In some high-end German restaurants, asking for a Doggybag may be met with hesitation because it disrupts the formal presentation of the meal's conclusion.
- The word Doggybag is an English loanword, yet it is used in Germany to describe a concept that was historically rare in German dining culture.
Examples in context
- Kann ich den Rest in einem Doggybag mitnehmen?Can I take the leftovers home in a to-go box?
Example conversation
Lukas and Laura are finishing a meal at a restaurant.
- LukasDas Essen war toll, aber ich bin satt.The food was great, but I am full.
- LauraSoll ich nach einem Doggybag fragen?Should I ask for a to-go box?
- LukasJa, bitte, ich möchte das gerne mitnehmen.Yes, please, I would like to take it with me.
- LauraIch hole den Doggybag gleich beim Kellner.I will get the to-go box from the waiter right away.
