Basic greetings — Common greetings

Hallo!

Hello!

A universal greeting in German, used at any time of the day.

Germans appreciate a firm and friendly greeting, preferably with a handshake.

Wie geht es Ihnen?

How are you?

This is the formal way to ask someone how they're doing. Use it with those older than you or in formal situations.

It’s common to include ‘Danke’ in your response, showing politeness and gratitude.

Auf wiedersehen!

Goodbye!

Literally translates to 'Until we see each other again.'

This is a standard formal farewell and can also be used informally.

Name

Name

Pronounced like 'nah-meh', similar to 'Namen' in a song!

Germany's naming tradition often includes both a first and middle name.

Wie heißen Sie?

What is your name?

This is the formal way to ask someone's name.

In Germany, it's expected to share or ask your last name in professional settings.

Mein Name ist Emily .

My name is Emily

Use 'ist' (meaning 'is') to connect the parts of the sentence.

Germans often introduce themselves by their first and last names in formal settings.

Freut mich, Sie kennenzulernen.

Nice to meet you.

Literally means 'Pleased to meet you' and is used in formal situations.

Germans tend to appreciate sincerity and directness in introductions.

Guten Morgen

Good morning

A cheerful way to start the day, even if you’re not a morning person.

Germans are typically early risers, especially on workdays.

Guten Tag

Good day

A midday greeting after ‘Guten Morgen’ and before ‘Guten Abend’.

It’s polite to greet everyone when entering a room or shop.