Are you planning to visit Germany or have German-speaking friends? Knowing how to say “Until next time” in German is a valuable phrase to leave a lasting impression. Whether you want to use a formal or informal expression, we will explore various options and provide you with tips and examples along the way. Let’s delve into the wonderful world of German farewells!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Until Next Time”
In formal situations, it’s important to showcase respect and maintain proper etiquette. Here are several ways to say “Until next time” in a formal context:
- Bis zum nächsten Mal: This common phrase literally translates to “Until the next time.” It’s a straightforward and widely used expression that can be applied in professional encounters or with individuals to whom you want to show courtesy.
- Auf Wiedersehen: Meaning “Goodbye,” “Auf Wiedersehen” implies “Until we see each other again.” Although it is more commonly used for final farewells, it can still be utilized to convey the sense of meeting again in formal contexts.
Tip: It is crucial to maintain a respectful tone, especially in formal settings. Using these phrases will help create a positive impression and leave the door open for future interactions.
Informal Ways to Say “Until Next Time”
When interacting with friends, family, or in casual settings, a more relaxed tone can be adopted. Here are a few informal ways to say “Until next time” in German:
- Bis dann: This expression can be informally translated as “Until then” or “See you later.” It conveys a sense of informality and works well in various informal situations.
- Mach’s gut: This phrase translates to “Take care” and serves as an informal way to say goodbye, expressing a heartfelt wish for the other person’s well-being until you meet again.
- Bis später: Meaning “Until later,” this phrase can be used to say goodbye in a casual and friendly manner. It implies an expectation of meeting again in the future.
As with many languages, the use of informal expressions can vary depending on regional dialects and colloquialisms. However, the aforementioned phrases tend to be widely understood and accepted across different German-speaking regions.
Examples in Context
Let’s now explore some examples to understand how to use these phrases in different contexts:
Example 1: You’re attending a business conference in Berlin and have met several professionals throughout the event. As you bid farewell to your new colleagues, you can confidently say, “Bis zum nächsten Mal” to express your desire to meet again in the future.
Example 2: After spending a fun weekend with friends in Munich, you can say, “Bis dann, macht’s gut!” as you part ways, expressing informality, warmth, and a genuine concern for their well-being until you meet again.
Example 3: You’re leaving a café in Vienna where you made a friendly connection with the waiter. In this situation, you can simply say, “Auf Wiedersehen” to acknowledge the formal setting and indicate the hope for future encounters.
The Importance of Non-verbal Elements
In addition to mastering the right phrase, non-verbal elements play a crucial role in conveying warmth and friendliness in German culture. Incorporate these tips to enhance your farewell gestures:
- Eye contact: Maintaining eye contact while saying your farewell phrase showcases sincerity and respect.
- Smiling: Wearing a warm smile further amplifies your positive intentions.
- Handshake or hug: Depending on the context and your existing relationship, a handshake or a friendly hug can add an additional layer of warmth to your farewell.
Remember, actions often speak louder than words. Combining the appropriate farewell phrase with these non-verbal elements will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on the people you interact with.
In Conclusion
Now armed with formal and informal ways to say “Until next time” in German, you are well-prepared to bid farewell to your German-speaking acquaintances in an appropriate and warm manner. Remember to adapt your choice of expression based on the formality of the situation, and don’t forget to incorporate non-verbal elements like eye contact, smiling, handshakes, or hugs to enhance communication.
So, whether you’re embarking on a trip to Germany, building connections in the professional world, or simply want to impress your German-speaking friends, confidently use these phrases to create lasting impressions and foster meaningful relationships.
Goodbye for now!
