We all know the German word for ‘please’ is bitte. And we know the word for ‘you’re welcome’ is bitte. While convenient to have the same word for both, it can also be a little confusing when lacking context.
So today, we bring you different ways to say “you’re welcome” to make it clear you aren’t asking for something!
Bitte schön (bit-uh sh-er-n)
This is the most common way to say "you're welcome" in German, and can be used in both formal and informal situations. It is a straightforward and neutral response that is appropriate for use with anyone.
Gern geschehen - (g-air-n guh-sh-ay-hen) This is a more formal way to say "you're welcome" and translates to "happened gladly". It can be used in more formal situations or with people you don't know very well.
Keine Ursache - (k-eye-nuh or-zak-uh) This phrase means "no cause", and can be used in response to someone thanking you for a small favor or gesture. It is a friendly and informal way to acknowledge their gratitude.
Nichts zu danken - (nix tsoo dankun) This translates to "nothing to thank for" and is a more formal way to respond to someone's gratitude. It can be used in business settings or with people you don't know very well.
Dafür nicht - (dafuer nikt)
"Dafür nicht" is a colloquial and informal way of responding to someone's thanks in northern Germany.
While it doesn't directly translate to "you're welcome", it conveys a similar sentiment and can be understood as "You don't need to thank me for that" or "No need to thank me".
The phrase is often used casually and can be considered a friendly way of downplaying a small favor or gesture.
Gerne - (g-air-nuh)
This is a simple and informal way to say "you're welcome". It means "gladly" and is a friendly response that is appropriate for use with friends or family members.
And there you are, six simple ways to say “you’re welcome” in German!
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