Common German Phrases
In this article, we will explore some of the most common German phrases that can help you communicate effectively in daily situations.
If you're learning German, one of the best ways to improve your speaking as well as your comprehension is by focusing on common phrases & everyday expressions. These are the kinds of expressions you’ll hear in casual conversations, work emails, shops, or public transport.
In this guide, we’ll show you the most useful and practical German phrases for everyday life.
Greetings
These are the most common ways to say hello, goodbye, and introduce yourself in German.
Introducing Yourself
When meetig someone, you might also want to use one of the following phrases:
What’s your name?
My name is Maria.
Nice to meet you.
Asking for Help
Here are some phrases that are very helpful in shops, stations, airports, or anytime you need assistance.
Excuse me, can you help me?
Where is the bathroom?
How do I get to the train station?
Could you repeat that, please?
At a Café or Restaurant
Here are some key phrases for ordering drink or food in German:
I would like a coffee.
What do you recommend?
Can I pay, please?
That was very tasty!
At the Store
These are phrases you’ll likely use while shopping in German-speaking countries.
How much does that cost?
I’d like to buy this.
Can I pay by card?
Do you need a bag?
German Small Talk
Small talk might seem simple, but it’s often one of the hardest things to do in a new language. In German, small talk is usually friendly and polite, but not too personal.
Here are some typical small talk questions and comments that are great to have ready when you want to be polite and social.
Nice weather today, isn’t it?
How was your weekend?
What do you do for work?
Are you from around here?
Emergency Phrases
We hope that you won't need these phrases, but it's always smart to know how to respond in an emergency. The good news is that many emergency phrases are short and easy to remember. Here are the most important ones:
Help!
Call the police!
I need a doctor.
Can you call an ambulance?
Conversational Phrases
Here are common phrases for showing interest, reacting, or keeping the conversation flowing.
Really?
That’s interesting.
I understand.
No idea.
Common Interjections
Interjections are short, often emotional words that people use to react quickly. In German, these little words are just as common and can help your speech sound much more natural and expressive.
Short but Useful Words
These short words appear in many everyday phrases — and knowing them helps a lot with understanding German in context.
Final Thoughts
Learning common German phrases is one of the easiest ways to sound more natural and feel more confident in everyday situations.
It helps you bridge the gap between textbook German and real, spoken German.
We hope this guide gives you a helpful head start. If you think we’ve missed an important phrase, please don't hesitate to send us a quick e-mail.
