How to speak German

Master the art of conversation in German

Not only is German the official language of Germany and Austria, but also it holds official status in Switzerland. German speakers are found in diverse locations such as Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay! Given its prevalence, the language is favored by Brits seeking to travel and conduct business globally. Yet mastering German can be challenging, given its intricate case system featuring gendered adjective endings and a vocabulary filled with expansive compound nouns (for instance, the word for science is Naturwissenschaften). Fortunately, we've compiled a list of recommendations to assist you in becoming proficient in the German language.

Tips to help you speak German

• Immerse yourself in German learning throughout the day. When it comes to smartphones, changing your language settings is surprisingly easy. With the average person checking their phone around 100 times a day, you'll likely be delighted by the number of new words you pick up just by adjusting your notifications to German. Pro tip: Extend this practice to your social media, games, and other apps to further enhance your exposure to the German language.

• Indulge in German TV series—yes, you read that right. Contrary to the belief that language learning involves endless hours with textbooks, there are more enjoyable ways to enhance your proficiency. Infuse fun into your learning routine by integrating it with activities you love, such as watching TV and movies. Enhance your experience by adding German subtitles to your favorite shows or, better yet, explore German programs and listen to radio stations to refine your German pronunciation. If these options don't appeal to you, consider perusing a German newspaper or magazine. For a literary touch, delve into a novel, starting with children's books or young adult fiction.

• Explore German language-learning podcasts. Numerous educational podcasts, created by professional teachers and experts, including those by the BBC, are dedicated to language learning. These podcasts offer the opportunity to listen to authentic German conversations at a slower pace, aiding in your language comprehension. If you're on the move and prefer not to practice German aloud, simply pop in your headphones and immerse yourself in a podcast.

• Harness the effectiveness of sticky notes. Don't overlook the impact of a sticky note. Whenever you encounter a new German word, jot it down on a sticky note and place it in a spot you frequent, such as your bedroom wall. Visual cues like these are highly beneficial, triggering your memory each time you see them and aiding in the retention of new knowledge. If your entire home becomes a sea of yellow sticky paper, that's even better—your brain will subconsciously absorb the information, even if you're not consciously aware of it at the time!

• Get speaking. Engaging in conversations with a native German speaker is widely recognized as the most effective method to enhance your language skills. If you're studying independently, this may present a challenge, but it's certainly achievable. In today's digital age, a German conversation partner is just a click away. Language exchange websites provide a platform where you can connect with a native speaker to practice your language skills while assisting them with their English in return. This reciprocal learning approach is easy and enjoyable, offering the potential for new friendships to emerge. Consider your German buddy as a modern-day pen pal, exchanging conversations over Skype or phone calls rather than traditional letters.

How To Speak German With Help From Babbel

If you want to know how to speak German like a real Deutschsprachiger, Babbel has you covered.

Babbel is designed by a team of language experts, educators, and designers who know all about what it takes to get the most out of learning a new language — so you are guaranteed a top-quality German learning journey that’s educational, engaging, and yes, fun.

Babbel’s German lessons are designed to strengthen your skills in the four areas of language learning — reading, writing, speaking, and listening — and to make sure the content you’re learning is committed to your long-term memory. Helpful tips along the way reinforce what you’re learning by making new connections.

Lessons introduce new words and expressions in stages, focusing on vocabulary that applies in conversations with actual native speakers — not nonsensical or impractical words that you’ll never use. Plus, almost every lesson features a simulated real-life dialogue to help you put what you’re learning about German grammar into context in the sorts of conversations you’d be having with native speakers.

If you want to know how to speak German with confidence, what are you waiting for? Try a Babbel German lesson today!