The essential phrases
| German | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Guten Morgen / Guten Tag / Guten Abend | hello (morning / day / evening) |
| Hallo / Tschüss | hi / goodbye |
| Sprechen Sie Englisch? | do you speak English? |
| Ich verstehe nicht | I don't understand |
| Wie viel kostet das? | how much does it cost? |
| Ich hätte gern … | I would like … |
| Die Rechnung, bitte / Zahlen, bitte | the bill, please |
| Karte oder bar? | card or cash? |
| Einen Tisch für zwei, bitte | a table for two, please |
| Wo ist …? | where is …? |
| Einmal Einzelfahrschein AB | one single ticket, zone AB |
| Welche Linie fährt nach …? | which line goes to …? |
| Ist das hier frei? | is this seat free? |
| Ich habe eine Allergie | I have an allergy |
| Hilfe! / Notruf 112 | help! / emergency 112 |
Basic pronunciation
"W" is read "v", "V" is read "f", "Z" is read "ts", "ch" is a rasping breath, "ei" is read "eye", "ie" is a long "ee". "Ü" is like the French "u".
What to avoid
Do not just speak English to everyone: a friendly "Guten Tag" is appreciated. Say "Zahlen, bitte" or "Die Rechnung, bitte" for the bill: waiters do not always bring it unasked. For change and tipping, see paying in Berlin; for the metro, transport in Berlin.
