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Using the phone in German: vocabulary and essential phrases

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CBG 1-24

Making a phone call in German may feel challenging at first, but with the right vocabulary and phrases, you’ll be able to handle conversations, ask for whom you want to speak to, answer a call confidently and take messages. Here’s a guide to help you talk on the phone in German, whether you’re calling a friend or a business.

Don’t forget to listen to the podcast episode to gain insight into pronunciation and learn even more useful vocabulary.  

Starting the call

When you are going to talk on the phone in German, it’s important to start the conversation by introducing yourself politely and asking to speak with the right person. The phrasing is the same whether you are asking to talk to a friend or someone you don’t know in a business for example:

  • Kann ich mit …. sprechen? Can I speak with ….?
  • Darf ich mit …. sprechen? May I speak with ….?
  • Ich muss mit …. sprechen. I need to speak with ….

If you’re not sure with whom you’re speaking, you can ask:

  • Wer ist am Apparat? Who is speaking?

And if you’re the one answering the phone, you can say:

  • Sie sprechen mit …. You are speaking with ….

To confirm who you’re speaking to, ask:

  • Mit wem spreche ich? Who am I speaking with?

Clarifying information

Sometimes, you may need to confirm or clarify information when using the phone in German, especially when it comes to names or important details:

  • Wie buchstabiert man das? How do you spell that?
  • Können Sie das (bitte) buchstabieren? Can you spell that (please)?

Handling common phone situations

If the person you’re calling isn’t available, you may hear:

  • Leider ist …. nicht verfügbar. Unfortunately, …. is not available.
  • Leider ist …. nicht hier. Unfortunately, …. is not here.

In this case, the person on the phone might ask:

  • Können Sie später noch einmal anrufen? Can you call again later?

Notice the formal form of you, Sie is used as it is implied that the person who answered the phone does not know you. Or they may offer to take a message:

  • Möchten Sie eine Nachricht hinterlassen? Would you like to leave a message?

If you’re leaving a message on an answering machine (der Anrufbeantworter), you’ll normally hear this standard message:

  • Hinterlassen Sie eine Nachricht nach dem Ton. Leave a message after the tone.

Useful phrases for talking on the phone in German

Here are some helpful phrases for managing the conversation on the phone in German:

  • Einen Moment, bitte One moment, please.
  • Ich rufe Sie so schnell wie möglich zurück. I will call you back as soon as possible.
  • Auf Wiederhören. Goodbye (on the phone).

Example phone conversations

Here’s how a basic phone call might go:

  • A: Guten Tag, kann ich mit Herrn Müller sprechen?
  • B: Einen Moment, bitte.” (After a short wait) Leider ist Herr Müller nicht verfügbar. Können Sie später noch einmal anrufen?
  • A: Ja, ich werde es später noch einmal versuchen. Vielen Dank. Auf Wiederhören!

Or leaving a message:

  • A: Guten Tag, ich muss mit Frau Schmidt sprechen.
  • B: Leider ist Frau Schmidt im Moment nicht hier. Möchten Sie eine Nachricht hinterlassen?
  • A: Ja, gerne. Ich hole sie heute um 5 Uhr ab. Auf Wiederhören!

With these key phrases, you’ll be prepared to make phone calls with confidence. We hope you find these phrases for how to talk on the phone in German and answer calls helpful. 

Now that you know how to talk on the phone, how about learning vocabulary for asking for help in different situations? After all, you never know when knowing how to ask for help in German will be useful on your next trip abroad. Read the article and listen to the podcast we prepared on the subject, and be prepared for anything! 

Visiting a German pharmacy: essential vocabulary for talking about symptoms and treatments

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CBG 1-23

You may not want to think about visiting a German pharmacy when visiting a German-speaking country. However, being able to communicate about a few common issues can let you communicate your needs effectively. 

In this blog post, you will find a helpful guide for common symptoms, phrases, and pharmacy-related terms in German. Don’t forget to listen to the podcast episode to get more insight into pronunciation and cultural nuances.

Describing your symptoms at a German pharmacy

When explaining your symptoms to a pharmacist, it’s important to be specific. Here are some common issues with which you might need help. Imagine it’s winter and you’re on a winter sports holiday, or visiting a city, you wouldn’t want the following symptoms to mar your stay:

  • der Huste cough
  • die Erkältung cold
  • Ich habe eine Erkältung. I have a cold.
  • Ich habe Halsschmerzen. I have a sore throat.

Note that in German, there’s no need to include the word for a before the symptom or complaint as we would use in English when using the construction …schmerzen, e.g.:

  • Ich habe Kopfschmerzen/Bauchschmerzen/Rückenschmerzen.

When a prescription may be needed at a German pharmacy

If you have more than a cold, you will need to get a prescription at a German pharmacy. It could be that you have:

  • die Infektion infection
  • Ich habe eine Ohreninfektion. I have an ear infection.

In this construction, the word for a is needed before the word for the type of infection. This is different to what we saw with -schmerzen. E.g.: Ich habe eine Halsinfektion. Infektion is a feminine word, so the word for a is eine in both the nominative and accusative cases. 

Other problems 

You may be away in search of some warmer weather, but you have to watch out for these possible side effects:

  • der Sonnenbrand sunburn
    • Ich habe einen Sonnenbrand. I have a sunburn.
  • das Fieber fever
    • Ich habe (ein) Fieber. I have a fever.
  • der Durchfall diarrhoea
    • Ich habe Durchfall. I have diarrhoea.
  • die Verstopfung constipation

You might also need to explain what you cannot do because of your symptoms when visiting a German pharmacy. There’s a useful way of doing this with:

  • the conjugated form of the modal verb können and
  • then negating the verb with nicht 
  • the main verb is in its infinitive form and goes to the end of the sentence:
    • Ich kann nicht schlafen. I can’t sleep.
    • Ich kann nicht schlucken. I can’t swallow.
    • Ich kann nicht atmen. I can’t breathe.

There’s another construction, used with an adjective that we can see below. It literally means to me is dizzy. You might also use these constructions to say I feel hot/cold/sick:

  • Mir ist schwindelig. I feel dizzy
  • Mir ist heiß. I feel hot.
  • Mir ist kalt. I feel cold.
  • Mir ist übel. I feel sick/nauseous.

Asking for medicine

If you need something to help with your symptoms, you can ask the pharmacist. You can say ‘Haben Sie etwas gegen…‘, it literally means, ‘Do you have something against…’ :

  • Haben Sie etwas gegen Fieber? Do you have something for a fever?
  • Haben Sie etwas gegen Durchfall? Do you have something for diarrhoea?
  • Haben Sie etwas gegen Kopfschmerzen? Do you have something for headaches?

Discussing your medical history

The pharmacist might ask about your medical history to recommend a suitable medication:

  • Sind Sie schwanger? Are you pregnant?
  • Was haben Sie gegessen? What have you eaten?
  • Was haben Sie getrunken? What have you drunk?

Medications and instructions

Once the pharmacist recommends a medication, they will explain how to take it. Here are some key phrases:

  • Sie müssen diese Tabletten nehmen. You need to take these tablets.
  • die Tropfen drops
    • Sie müssen diese Tropfen nehmen. You need to take these drops.
  • die Salbe ointment
    • Sie müssen diese Salbe nehmen. You need to apply this ointment.

It’s important to follow the instructions for how often and when to take the medicine:

  • dreimal pro Tag three times a day
  • nach dem Essen after eating
  • vor dem Essen before eating

Other conditions

You may also need to mention if you have any allergies or other conditions. Here are some common ones that may be helpful for you to know:

  • die Grippe the flu
  • der Ausschlag rash
  • die Allergie allergy
  • die Katzenallergie cat allergy
  • Ich bin allergisch gegen Penicillin. I’m allergic to penicillin.
  • Ich bin allergisch gegen Katzen. I’m allergic to cats.
  • Ich bin allergisch gegen Meeresfrüchte. I’m allergic to seafood.
  • Ich bin allergisch auf Nüsse. I’m allergic to nuts.
  • Ich habe Heuschnupfen. I have hay fever.

Example conversation in a German pharmacy

Here’s an example of how a typical conversation in a German pharmacy might go:

  • You: Guten Tag, ich habe Fieber und kann nicht schlafen. Haben Sie etwas dagegen?
  • Pharmacist: Ja, Sie müssen diese Tabletten nehmen. Dreimal pro Tag, nach dem Essen.
  • You: Danke schön! Auf Wiedersehen.

By using these phrases and terms, you’ll be better prepared for a visit to a German pharmacy in a German-speaking country. It can be helpful to be able to be clear about your symptoms and any allergies you have to ensure you get the right medication. It’s always good to be prepared, though you hopefully won’t have to visit a pharmacy for anything more than sun cream.

Knowing that you can handle talking about these common complaints can help you in your holiday preparations as well as build your vocabulary and understanding. But what if you have to talk to a pharmacist over the phone, would you be able to hold a phone conversation in German? If you are not really sure, don’t forget to check the blog post and podcast we prepared on the theme and learn the basics of a conversation like that!

Coffee Break Spanish Magazine – Episode 210

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Coming up in this week’s edition of the Coffee Break Magazine:

  • Alba asks, si te encontraras un billete de €50, ¿qué harías con él? – if you found €50, what would you do with it?
  • Mark joins Fernanda on a virtual tour of Las Ruinas Aztecas in Mexico;
  • and JP and Nahyeli answer listener Gabriel’s question about the how best to translate “to take” or “to bring” in Spanish using traer, llevar and tomar.

Coffee Break Spanish Magazine – Free video

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The video interviews for each episode of Coffee Break Spanish are provided for our members. Each episode includes video footage from the interviews conducted by Alba on the streets of Barcelona. These videos feature subtitles and also help learners with difficult parts by slowing down the speech. The video below will help to explain this further.

In addition to the video content the members’ materials also include comprehensive lesson notes and a specially extended audio version of the episode which discusses in detail all the language included in each episode.

The members’ materials come in “season passes”, with each pass providing the materials for the ten lessons of the season. Until 5th September you can buy the season pass for Coffee Break Spanish Magazine Season 1 or Season 2 with a 15% discount. Find out more about our Back to School Sale here, and for the product pages, please click here.

German medical terms: how to describe your symptoms, aches and pains

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CBG 1-22

One of the not-so-nice things that can happen when you are on holiday or studying in a different country is getting ill. That is why understanding basic medical terms in German, for example, can be a lifesaver if you find yourself in that situation.

While we hope you never have to use them, knowing how to describe a headache or a sore throat can make a huge difference when navigating healthcare in a German-speaking country. In this blog post, we will have a look into the essential German medical terms and phrases to ensure you’re prepared for any situation.

As always, listen to the podcast to ensure you make the best of this learning experience by listening to Thomas, our native speaker tutor! 

Essential German body parts vocabulary

First and foremost, to be able to describe your symptoms, aches and pains you need to know the name of some body parts. That will make explaining your symptoms much easier. 

Let’s have a look at some of the most common ones: 

  • der Kopf head;
  • der Bauch stomach;
  • der Rücken back;
  • der Arm arm;
  • die Hand hand;
  • der Fuß foot;
  • das Bein leg;
  • das Auge eye;
  • das Ohr  ear;
  • der Hals throat.

Common symptoms in German

If someone asks you how are you feeling in German and the answer is not so good, you might need to explain why you are feeling like that using some of the vocabulary about body parts in German we just learned. To be understood, you will need to describe your symptoms using simple German medical terms.

That applies to any visit to an Apotheke pharmacy or seeking medical help at an Arzt doctor. Here are some basic ways of doing that:

  • Ich habe Kopfschmerzen. I have a headache.
  • Ich habe Halsschmerzen. I have a sore throat.
  • Ich habe Bauchschmerzen.  I have stomach pain.
  • Ich habe Rückenschmerzen. I have back pain.
  • Ich habe Zahnschmerzen. I have a toothache.

Additionally, another handy way of saying that something hurts is using the phrase ‘Mein(e) [body part] tut weh’, which translates to my [body part] hurts. For example:

  • Mein Arm tut weh. My arm hurts.
  • Meine Beine tun weh. My legs hurt.

Describing specific aches and pains in German 

If you need to describe more specific aches and pains, these words may help:

  • geschwollen sein to be swollen
  • gebrochen sein to be broken
  • brennen to burn
  • jucken to itch

Useful phrases for a pharmacy or doctor’s visit

Now that you know how to describe your symptoms using simple German medical terms, there are some other important phrases to know when visiting a doctor or a pharmacy in Germany, Austria, or Switzerland:

  • Wo tut es Ihnen weh? Where does it hurt? (formal)
  • Wo tut es dir weh? Where does it hurt? (informal)
  • Ich fühle mich nicht gut.  I don’t feel well.
  • Haben Sie etwas gegen [symptom]? Do you have something for [symptom]?

It’s important to know that pharmacies play a significant role in providing over-the-counter medication and advice. If you’re not feeling well but it’s not an emergency, visiting an Apotheke may be your first step.

While many medical professionals in German-speaking countries speak English, showing effort in speaking German ensures that you’re prepared for situations where English might not be an option! If you want to learn more useful phrases and words seeking help at a pharmacy, make sure the blog post we prepared with essential German pharmacy vocabulary!

 

Coffee Break Spanish Magazine – Episode 209

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Coming up in this week’s edition of the Coffee Break Magazine:

  • Alba asks, si esta noche tuvieras una cita a ciegas, ¿qué estarías haciendo ahora mismo? – if you had a blind date tonight, what would you be doing right now?
  • Mark joins Fernanda on a virtual tour of La Riviera Maya in Mexico;
  • and JP and Nahyeli answer a very interesting question from listener Steve about using ser or estar with food.

Talking about the time and weather in German: everyday essentials

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Learning how to talk about the time and weather in German is an essential skill when learning the language, especially if you are travelling in a German-speaking place. To be able to prepare for your day, catch trains on time, make that bus or get the correct opening and closing times for sights, these abilities are crucial. 

These topics are part of everyday conversation and can help you engage more naturally with native speakers. In this guide, we will break down the basic phrases and vocabulary you need to tell the time confidently and discuss the weather in German.

How to talk about the weather in German

Weather is a common topic for small talk, and knowing how to describe the weather in German will make your conversations flow more naturally. Here are some fundamental phrases:

  • Wie ist das Wetter? What is the weather like?
  • Wie ist das Wetter heute? How is the weather today?

Depending on the forecast, you might answer with one of the following:

  • Es ist warm. It is warm.
  • Es ist kalt. It is cold.
  • Es ist heiß. It is hot.
  • Es ist bewölkt. It’s cloudy.
  • Es ist sonnig. It’s sunny.
  • Es ist windig. It’s windy.

Getting into details about the weather in German

If you want to be more specific, you can use adjectives to describe the weather in German with greater detail:

  • Heute ist es sehr heiß. Today, it is very hot.
  • Heute ist es außergewöhnlich kalt. Today, it is extraordinarily cold.
  • Heute ist es bewölkt. Today, it’s cloudy.

These phrases are great for describing the weather right now. Note the shift in word order when the sentence begins with heute. The verb remains in 2nd position and the subject moves to 3rd position. 

Forecasting for the future

What if you want to talk about what the weather will be like? Here are some future-focused expressions:

  • Wie wird das Wetter? What will the weather be like? – Here, we can see the present tense of the verb werden used to convey the idea of the future. Literally, it means How is becoming the weather?
  • Morgen wird es warm. Tomorrow it’s going to be warm. – In this example, the adverb of time morgen is used together with werden to show we are talking about the weather in the future. 
  • Am Nachmittag wird es kalt. This afternoon it’s going to be cold. – Again, we are seeing another adverb of time, am Nachmittag, used to show that we are referring to the future. When these adverbs are placed at the start of a sentence, the verb still has to remain in 2nd position, shifting the subject to 3rd position. 
  • Es wird windig. It’s going to be windy.

Whether you’re planning a day out or simply chatting with a friend, these phrases will help you talk about the weather in German in any situation.

Telling the time in German

Another vital skill is knowing how to tell the time in German, and it can go hand-in-hand with talking about the weather. It’s useful to know when changes in the forecast are due! Let’s start with the basics:

  • Wie viel Uhr ist es? What time is it?
  • Wie spät ist es? What time is it? (Literally: How late is it?)

To answer these questions, you might use:

  • Es ist drei Uhr. It is three o’clock.
  • Es ist sieben Uhr dreiundzwanzig. It’s 7:23.
  • Es ist Viertel nach zwei. It’s a quarter past two. (Note that the preposition nach means after.)
  • Es ist halb elf. It is half past ten.

In German, saying “half past ten” is expressed as halb elf, which literally means half to eleven, NOT half (past) eleven, as learners of German think at first. This might take a little getting used to, but with practice, it will become second nature. It also helps avoid confusion and turning up an hour later than planned!

Some other useful phrases:

  • Es ist Mitternacht. It’s midnight.
  • Es ist Mittag. It’s midday.
  • Es ist zehn vor acht. It is ten to eight. (The preposition vor means before/to.)

Practising these phrases will help you feel more confident when discussing time in German, whether you’re scheduling a meeting or just checking the time.

Practice makes perfect

Just like any other aspect of learning a language, the key to talking about time and the weather in German is practice. Try using these phrases in your daily conversations, listen to how native speakers talk about the weather, and check the time throughout the day in German. It’s also helpful to hear different accents and learn from their pronunciation. Here are some examples to check your understanding:

  • Um 16 Uhr wird es sehr windig  aber  am  Abend wird es wieder sonnig…
  • Morgen Mittag wird es außergewöhnlich kalt und eisig. 

By practising regularly, you’ll find that these phrases become a natural part of your vocabulary, helping you to communicate more effectively and enjoy your learning journey even more.

For more practice, be sure to listen to the podcast episode, where you can hear the examples and perfect your pronunciation. Also, why not use your new phrases about telling the time in German and see how to use them when making a phone call? 

 

Coffee Break Spanish Magazine – Episode 208

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Coming up in this week’s edition of the Coffee Break Magazine:

  • Alba asks, ¿a quién admiras más en el mundo? – whom do you admire most in the world?
  • Mark joins Fernanda on a virtual tour of Havana;
  • and JP and Nahyeli answer listener Jessica’s question about how to translate “something else altogether”.

German phrases for travellers: why learn and key basic vocabulary

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CBG 1-20

Travelling to a German-speaking country is an exciting adventure. Knowing some key German phrases can help you make the most of your journey. Whether you’re navigating public transportation, ordering delicious food, or asking for directions, having these phrases at your disposal can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

This blog post will explore essential German phrases for travellers while helping you review some key vocabulary, as the episode that inspires this lesson marks the 20th lesson of Coffee Break German Season 1. Listen to the podcast below to improve your pronunciation skills!

Why learn German phrases before travelling?

Many Germans are proficient in English, particularly in larger cities, but learning some basic German phrases for travellers can truly enrich your next adventure. It demonstrates respect for the local culture and can be invaluable in areas where English isn’t commonly spoken. 

Additionally, knowing a few key expressions can make navigating daily situations much smoother. Whether you’re ordering a meal in a restaurant, asking for directions, or engaging in small talk at a local market, these interactions can become highlights of the language learning journey. Speaking even a little German can make you feel more confident and comfortable, allowing you to immerse yourself in the country’s rich traditions and vibrant lifestyle. 

Key German phrases for travellers

In this section, we will not cover the basics, like saying hello in German or using the numbers in German. Instead, this quick review will focus on more day-to-day interactions, such as asking for information about transport, ordering food or drinks, and asking for prices.

By preparing ahead and practising these phrases, you’ll not only feel more confident but also leave a positive impression on the locals you meet. Let’s have a look: 

Phrases for navigating public transportation

Germany’s transportation system is world-class, but understanding how to ask questions and read signs will make your journey even easier. Here are some key sentences for you to memorise and feel more comfortable when asking and understanding answers:

  • Wann fährt der Zug ab? When does the train leave?
  • Ich möchte bitte eine Hin- und Rückfahrt nach Dortmund kaufen. I would like to buy a return ticket to Dortmund, please.
  • Wo ist die Bushaltestelle? Where is the bus stop?
  • Wie komme ich zum Hauptbahnhof? How do I get to the main train station?
  • Der Zug nach Graz fährt um 13:54 ab. The train to Graz departs at 1:54 PM.
  • Die Fahrt dauert ungefähr zwanzig Minuten. The ride takes about 20 minutes.

Phrases for ordering food and drinks

Germany is famous for its hearty cuisine and beer culture. Make sure you’re ready to enjoy the delicious offerings by knowing how to order confidently. You can say:

  • Ich nehme einen Wurstsalat. I’ll have sausage salad  (or other beverage or food name). 
  • Können Sie mir bitte die Rechnung bringen? Can you bring me the bill, please?
  • Haben Sie eine Speisekarte auf Englisch? Do you have a menu in English?

When dining out, knowing a few polite phrases can help you enjoy your meal while leaving a good impression on the staff.

Shopping and asking for prices

These German phrases for travellers will help you get by with the basics for asking for prices. 

  • Wie viel kostet das? How much does that cost?
  • Ich möchte Briefmarken kaufen. I would like to buy stamps.
  • Haben Sie das in einer anderen Größe? Do you have this in another size?
  • Kann ich mit Karte zahlen? Can I pay by card?

Asking for directions

Understanding basic directions plays a crucial role in helping you comprehend how to get to places. Also, it is really helpful to know some basic directions, as they can make it easier to ask questions and boost your communication skills overall. Check it out: 

  • geradeaus straight ahead
  • nach rechts to the right
  • nach links to the left
  • neben next to
  • vor in front of
  • hinter behind
  • zwischen between

So, when you are wandering through picturesque streets or trying to locate notable landmarks, here are some useful phrases:

  • Können Sie mir bitte sagen, wo das Schloss Schönbrunn  ist? Can you please tell me where the Schönbrunn Palace (or other place name) is?
  • Das Kino ist zwischen der Schule und dem Schwimmbad. The cinema is between the school and the swimming pool.
  • Nehmen Sie die zweite Straße rechts und dann immer geradeaus. Take the second street on the right and then continue straight.
  • Gibt es einen Park in der Nähe? – Is there a park nearby?

There you go! Having these few German phrases for travellers under your belt can transform your next adventure into a more enjoyable experience. Whether you’re exploring cities like Berlin or Munich, visiting historic sites or savouring delicious German cuisine, knowing the language basics will make everything smoother. 

We hope this tiny review of some basic vocabulary you probably learned if you’ve been following the podcast for Coffee Break German. If not, there is still time to catch up and continue learning more important vocabulary for beginners! Check out the blog post we prepared on how to talk about the weather and time in German!

130 million free language lessons delivered

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We’re over the moon to learn today that in the past seven years Radio Lingua has delivered over 130 million free language lessons to learners around the world. From our first episode of Coffee Break Spanish back in 2006, right up to our latest Coffee Break French Verb Fix project and the release of Coffee Break German earlier this year, we have focused on producing high quality, effective language lessons which aim to help listeners to develop language skills and build an understanding of whichever language they are learning. We have gone on to produce 43 different series over 27 languages, from Arabic to Zulu.

We’d like to take this opportunity to thank all our listeners and viewers for their ongoing support and enthusiasm for our courses and we’ll continue to produce new, engaging content for language learners. We’re very excited to be working on some fantastic new content for learners of all ages, and we’re looking forward to making some big announcements in the coming weeks and months. Here’s to another 130 million!

The CBF Verb Fix 110 – Aller

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This is the final lesson of this season and we’re looking at the irregular verb aller meaning “to go”. Aller is a very common verb and in addition to being used in its normal sense, it is also used as part of the simple future tense, as in “I am going to visit my aunt” and other such sentences. There’s also something you need to take on board with aller when conjugating it in the perfect tense. All will be explained in the lesson.

Coffee Break Spanish Magazine – Episode 207

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We’re back with another edition of the Coffee Break Spanish Magazine. In this episode:

  • Alba asks, ¿qué es para ti el verano? – what does summer mean to you?
  • Mark joins Fernanda on a virtual tour of the Dominican Republic;
  • and JP and Nahyeli answer a listener’s question about the use of the imperfect and perfect subjunctive.

The CBF Verb Fix 109 – Devoir

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In this lesson we’re looking at the irregular verb devoir meaning “must” or “to have to”, or in some situations “to owe”. Devoir is another irregular verb so we need to learn each part of the verb as it does not follow the regular patterns.

3 different ways of saying ‘when’ in German

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CBG 1-19

If you’re getting to grips with German, you’ve probably come across the word ‘when’ quite a few times. But did you know that there are actually three different ways to say ‘when’ in German, and each has its specific usage?

Don’t worry, though—it’s not as tricky as it sounds, and we’re here to guide you through it! By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly when to use wann, wenn, and als in German. So, let’s get started and don’t forget to listen to the podcast to hear how the knowledge of this word can help when travelling on public transport in a German-speaking country! 

‘When’ in German: the three forms

As we mentioned previously, ‘when’ in German can be translated into three different words. The terms are – wann, als and wenn and knowing the difference between them is very helpful if you want to prove you speak a little German. 

Wann

The first form of saying ‘when’ in German is wann. It’s used when asking a question about time. Think of it as the German version of ‘when’ in English, when you’re trying to find out at what time something happened or will happen.

Let’s see some examples:

  • Wann beginnt der Film? When does the movie start?
  • Wann kommst du nach Hause? When are you coming home?

In both of these cases, you’re asking for specific information about time. Simple, right? The tip here is: If you can replace ‘when’ with ‘at what time’ in your sentence, you’ll use wann in German!

Wenn

Next up, we have wenn, which is super versatile. You’ll use wenn when you’re talking about something that could happen in the future or something that happens repeatedly. 

Let’s break it down:

  • Wenn ich Zeit habe, gehe ich ins Fitnessstudio. When/Whenever/If I have time, I go to the gym.

As you can see, wenn is the word to use when talking about hypothetical or recurring situations. It’s used for things that can happen or usually happen.

Als

Lastly, we have als. This variation is used when you’re talking about events in the past. Here are a few examples:

  • Als ich in Deutschland war, habe ich viel Deutsch gesprochen. When I was in Germany, I spoke a lot of German.
  • Als ich klein war, hatte ich einen Hund. When I was little, I had a dog.

Notice how in both examples, the action happened in the past for a specific period of time, not a regularly recurring event. That’s why we use als.

Keep practising wann, wenn and als in German!

Now that you know the difference between wann, wenn, and als, you’re well on your way to mastering the use of ‘when’ in German! The best way to get comfortable with these is to practice, so try using them in your conversations or jot down a few sentences to reinforce your learning.

And remember, learning a language is all about small steps. So don’t stress if you mix them up at first, just keep practising, and you’ll get the hang of it. And if you would like to review vocabulary and grammar in German, don’t miss the blog post and podcast episode we prepared to help you with that!

The CBF Verb Fix 108 – Vouloir

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In this lesson we’re looking at the irregular verb vouloir meaning “to want”. Vouloir is another irregular verb so we need to learn each part of the verb as it does not follow the regular patterns.

Public transport in German: essential phrases for travelling

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A lot of German-speaking countries are famous for their öffentlichen Nahverkehr public transport, and especially Switzerland has an amazing network of trains. So let’s have a look today at how to navigate public transport in German. 

We are going to have a look at departure and arrival times and some other essential phrases to make your journey smoother. As always, remember you can listen to even more examples and explanations in our podcast. 

A useful phrase for any question

Let’s start with a very helpful phrase that you can use in almost any situation: Können Sie mir bitte sagen. This means ‘Can you please tell me’ and can be followed by any specific question. It’s a polite way to ask for information, and it’s perfect for asking about public transport schedules.

  • Können Sie mir bitte sagen, wann der Zug ankommt? Can you please tell me when the train arrives?
  • Können Sie mir bitte sagen, um wie viel Uhr der Zug abfährt? Can you please tell me at what time the train departs?

Notice the structure of the sentence. After Können Sie mir bitte sagen, a question word is used (wann, um wie viel Uhr) and the verb is put to the end of the clause. Also, keep in mind that you can use this phrase for almost all other questions that we covered in previous lessons. 

  • Können Sie mir bitte sagen, wann der Supermarkt heute schließt? 

Talking about train and bus times in German

Now that you know the key phrase, let’s look at some essential vocabulary for public transport in German:

    • ankommen to arrive
    • abfahren to depart
    • der Zug the train
    • der Bus the bus
    • nach to/for
    • von from

Knowing these few basic words for public transport in German, you can find out all relevant information für deine nächste Reise. 

  • Können Sie mir bitte sagen, um wie viel Uhr der Zug nach München abfährt? Can you please tell me at what time the train for Munich leaves?
  • Können Sie mir bitte sagen, wann der Zug von Köln ankommt? Can you please tell me when the train from Cologne arrives?
  • Können Sie mir bitte sagen, von wo der Bus nach Wien abfährt? Can you please tell me from where the bus to Vienna leaves?

Just remember you can of course also use this construction with any other form of public transport like die Straßenbahn tram or die U-Bahn subway. Make sure to try and ask for information the next time you are in a German-speaking country, just to practise your speaking and build your confidence, even if you have already found all the information online before.

To keep your learning journey on track, why not understand three different ways of asking when in German? This way, you’ll be able to ask when people are departing for a trip and schedule a coffee with friends.

The CBF Verb Fix 107 – Pouvoir

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In this lesson we’re looking at the irregular verb pouvoir meaning “to be able”. Pouvoir is another irregular verb so we need to learn each part of the verb as it does not follow the regular patterns.

Coffee Break Spanish Magazine – Episode 206

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We’re back with another edition of the Coffee Break Spanish Magazine. In this episode:

  • Alba asks, ¿adónde te irás de vacaciones este verano? – where will you be going on holiday this summer?
  • Mark joins Fernanda on a virtual tour of Venezuela;
  • and JP and Nahyeli answer Richard’s question about the difference between el mismo and lo mismo.

Places in German: how to use prepositions and talk about locations

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CBG 1-17

Knowing how to talk about places and locations can make all the difference when you’re travelling to a German-speaking country. Whether you need to ask where the nearest Apotheke is or make sure the Museum is still open, knowing the relevant vocabulary and phrases is key. 

However, in this blog post, we are not just looking at place names in German but also at the grammar topic of prepositions. Listen to the episode while reading the text to get the most out of the pronunciation tips! 

Asking about places in German using “gibt es…”

One of the most common ways to ask about places in German is by using the phrase gibt es..., which means is there…? or are there…?. It’s a useful expression when you’re trying to find something in a town or city, such as a museum, a park, or even a swimming pool.

Here are a few examples:

  • Gibt es hier einen Park? Is there a museum here?
  • Gibt es ein Museum in der Nähe? Is there a museum nearby?
  • Was gibt es hier am Sonntag zu tun? What is there to do here on a sunday?

Notice the change from ein to einen when using masculine nouns like der Park. This is because the accusative case is used after gibt es… 

Prepositions in German: describing locations

When you want to describe where something is located, prepositions like neben (beside), gegenüber (opposite), and zwischen (between) are incredibly useful. However, these prepositions require you to use the dative case to indicate the position of something.

Here’s how the definite articles change in the dative case:

Noun Nominative Accusative Dative
Masculine (der) der Park den Park dem Park
Feminine (die) die Schule die Schule der Schule
Neuter (das) das Museum das Museum dem Museum

Now, let’s see some examples of these prepositions in action:

  • Das Hotel ist neben dem Bahnhof. The hotel is beside the station.
  • Es gibt eine Bank gegenüber dem Rathaus. There is a bank opposite the town hall.
  • Es gibt einen Spielplatz zwischen dem Bahnhof und der Kirche. There is a playpark between the station and the church.

Using prepositions with distance and location

If you want to ask if something is nearby, you can use the phrase in der Nähe, which means nearby or close by. This helps ask about places in German within walking distance:

  • Gibt es einen Park in der Nähe? Is there a park nearby?
  • Ja, es gibt einen Park nur zehn Minuten von hier. Yes, there’s a park just ten minutes from here.

Adding in der Nähe really is a fantastic expression to use when you are exploring a city. Try to use it the next time you are in a German-speaking area. 

Asking for maps, timetables, and opening hours

When visiting a tourist office or talking to the receptionist in the hotel, it’s useful to know how to ask for a map or brochures of interesting places. Here are some helpful phrases:

  • Haben Sie einen Stadtplan? Do you have a map of the town?
  • Kann ich eine Broschüre haben? Can I have a brochure?

You can also ask when certain places open or close:

  • Um wie viel Uhr öffnet das Schwimmbad? At what time does the swimming pool open?
  • Um wie viel Uhr schließt die Bank? At what time does the bank close?

As an answer, you might hear the opening or closing time or even both. 

  • Das Schwimmbad öffnet um 8 Uhr. The swimming pool opens at 8 am. 
  • Die Bank ist zwischen 9 und 5 Uhr geöffnet. The bank is open between 9 am and 5 pm.

Being able to talk about places in German and use the correct prepositions is key to navigating through towns and cities with ease. Whether you’re asking about the location of a museum or trying to figure out where the nearest park is, understanding how to use phrases like gibt es… and in der Nähe can be the first step to getting some great recommendations. 

Don’t forget to practise using the dative case with prepositions, and make sure to listen to our related podcast episode for pronunciation tips and further examples. With a little practice, you’ll be able to confidently ask for directions and even describe locations in German when asked about them.

Just in case the places you want to see are not in der Nähe, we have prepared a blog post for you looking at using public transport in Germany, Austria or Switzerland.

The CBF Verb Fix 106 – Faire

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In this lesson we’re looking at the irregular verb faire meaning “to do” or “to make”. Faire is another irregular verb so we need to learn each part of the verb as it does not follow the regular patterns.

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