Formal/Informal Speech

Formal speech uses Sie for "you," capitalizes it even in the middle of a sentence, and pairs it with the third-person singular or plural verb form. This level is for strangers, business settings, and anyone you want to address politely.

Informal speech uses du for singular "you" and ihr for plural "you," with matching verb endings. Use du with friends, family, and peers who have agreed to switch to informal address.

Some everyday words change depending on whether you speak formally or informally; markets, restaurants, and service encounters may require one form or the other. Knowing both versions helps you navigate social situations smoothly.

Switching from formal to informal speech usually requires mutual agreement, sometimes marked by a phrase like "Lass uns duzen." Abrupt shifts can seem rude, so pay attention to social cues and context.

German distinguishes formal Sie and informal du/ihr address, affecting pronouns, verb forms, and sometimes vocabulary. Use Sie to show respect, du with friends, and switch register only when invited.