My Struggle with Saying “Please Repeat” in Germany

Okay, so here I am, six months into living in Munich, and let’s just say my German is… a work in progress. A very enthusiastic, stumbling work in progress. I’m trying so hard, and honestly, most of the time I manage to get by. But there are these moments, these little hurdles, that make me want to throw my hands up and just point. And the biggest one? Asking someone to repeat something. It’s mortifying.

The Panic of Not Understanding

The first few weeks, everything was okay. I’d hear a word, a phrase, and I’d just nod and try to figure it out. Then, suddenly, a conversation would explode with rapid-fire German, and I’d just be staring blankly, desperately trying to catch something, anything. That’s when the panic would set in. I’d feel this overwhelming need to understand, and I’d fumble for the right words.

My First Attempt – And the Mortification

I was at the bakery yesterday, trying to order a Brötchen (a roll – you’d think it’d be easy!). The lovely woman behind the counter was explaining the different types. She said something about “die Körung” (the scoring) and I just shook my head, feeling utterly lost. I finally mustered the courage and, completely red-faced, asked, “Entschuldigen Sie, können Sie das wiederholen?” (Excuse me, can you repeat that?).

Her eyebrows went up slightly, and she patiently repeated it, slower this time. And I still didn’t fully get it! I just nodded, feeling incredibly stupid, and bought my Brötchen. The embarrassment was intense.

Building the Right Phrase: “Können Sie das wiederholen?”

Let’s break down this phrase, because it feels so important. “Können Sie” literally translates to “Can you,” but it’s the polite way to ask for something. “Das” refers to the thing you didn’t understand. And “wiederholen” means “to repeat.” It’s a simple sentence, but the weight of not understanding hangs over it.

• Important Note: Germans really appreciate politeness. Using “Sie” (formal you) is crucial, especially with people you don’t know. Using “du” (informal you) feels overly familiar and can be considered rude, particularly at the beginning of an interaction.

Scenarios Where I Really Need It

I find myself needing to ask for repetition constantly. Here are a few situations that trigger it:

• At the Doctor’s Office: The doctor was explaining my diagnosis, and I only caught fragments. Asking for “Können Sie das bitte wiederholen?” (Can you please repeat that?) felt essential. It was a bit overwhelming!
• On Public Transport: The announcements are always in German. Sometimes, I miss key information about the next stop.
• In the Supermarket: Trying to figure out the ingredients in a new product, or asking for help with a particular item, often involves me needing a repeat.

What Happens When I Make Mistakes?

I’ve definitely stumbled with the phrasing. A few times, I’ve accidentally said “Ich möchte das wiederholen” (I would like to repeat it). While grammatically correct, it sounds overly demanding. I’ve learned to stick with the polite “Können Sie das wiederholen?”

Also, sometimes, even after a repetition, I still don’t understand. That’s okay! I’ve realized that it’s perfectly acceptable to say, “Können Sie es bitte langsamer sagen?” (Can you please speak more slowly?). Or, if I’m completely lost, I might say, “Ich verstehe nicht.” (I don’t understand.) – but I always follow it up with, “Können Sie es bitte erklären?” (Can you please explain it?).

A Little Success!

Yesterday, I was trying to order a coffee – a Latte. I butchered the pronunciation so badly, the barista just laughed. I felt my face burn, but I bravely asked, “Können Sie das bitte noch einmal sagen?” (Can you please say that one more time?). This time, he gave me a patient smile and explained exactly how to order a Latte. It was a small victory, but a really important one.

My Key Takeaway – It’s Okay to Ask!

Honestly, the biggest thing I’ve learned is that Germans are incredibly patient and helpful. They want you to learn, and they won’t judge you for asking to repeat something. Don’t be afraid to use “Können Sie das wiederholen?” – it’s a vital tool in your German learning journey. And remember, even a little bit of progress is a good thing! Ich werde es schaffen! (I will manage!)