How to Ask Someone to Repeat Themselves in German

If you are learning German, there will be times when you didn’t catch what someone said. Knowing how to politely ask for a repetition is a practical skill that can help you communicate more effectively. In this article, we’ll explore common phrases for asking someone to repeat themselves in German, along with their English translations.

Polite Ways to Ask for a Repetition

1. Formal: “Könnten Sie das bitte wiederholen?”

When speaking in formal situations, such as at work or with someone you don’t know well, you can use:
Könnten Sie das bitte wiederholen?
This translates to “Could you please repeat that?” in English. It is polite and professional, making it suitable for meetings, interviews, or formal conversations.

2. Informal: “Könntest du das bitte wiederholen?”

For friends, classmates, or people you know well, you can use the informal version:
Könntest du das bitte wiederholen?
This also means “Could you please repeat that?” but is casual and friendly.

3. Expressing That You Didn’t Understand: “Entschuldigung, ich habe das nicht verstanden.”

If you want to explain that you didn’t understand something, try:
Entschuldigung, ich habe das nicht verstanden.
This means “Excuse me, I didn’t understand.” It’s a polite way to ask someone to clarify or repeat their words.

4. Asking Someone to Say It Again: “Könnten Sie das bitte noch einmal sagen?”

Another useful phrase is:
Könnten Sie das bitte noch einmal sagen?
This translates to “Could you please say it again?” It’s slightly more casual than the first option and works well in both formal and informal settings.

Tips for Using These Phrases

Always use polite language, especially in formal situations.
Pay attention to tone; a friendly smile can make your request sound even more polite.
Practice these phrases out loud to feel confident when using them in real conversations.

Conclusion

Being able to ask for a repetition in German is a key skill for learners at any level. Whether in a classroom, at work, or during casual conversations, these phrases can help you communicate clearly and politely. By practicing them regularly, you’ll feel more confident in your ability to understand and respond in German.