You might remember that we spoke about this topic some time ago (in June last year to be exact!).
In Germany, when someone says, “Danke”, people normally reply, “Bitte”.
But what do you do in English? You don’t have to say anything. However, if you feel you must, try some of these phrases:
It was my pleasure.
I’m here to help!
Of course!
Enjoy!
Nice to know I helped you.
“If you are willing to do more than you are paid to do, eventually you will be paid to do more than you do.” Anonymous
The BBC has written an article on the ten most fascinating objects made in Germany. What do you think is at the top of the list? You probably guessed correctly. It’s the Volkswagen’s Beetle. But did you know it was the British who first produced the car? I was surprised to read it.
Do you know the other fascinating objects? My favourite is the model of Friedrichstraße Station which was used to train Stasi border guards. And yours?
A friend of mine thinks she’s clever. She told me that an onion is the only food that makes you cry. Well, I threw a coconut in her face. 😉
Would you like to compare your mealtime practices to people from around the world? Which country do you best fit in? Take part in the University of Washington’s study by answering the questions about your own habits to find out.
Surprise, surprise. I should travel to Japan, because I don’t often use my phone at meals! And what about you?
Another difficult word to translate is the German word “Abitur”. Depending on where you went to school or who you’re talking to, you might say that you have your “A levels”, “Higher School Certificate”, “Highers” or whatever. People might not understand what this is. My suggestion is to say that you have your “Abitur” (use the German word) and to explain that it’s an exam that you took at the end of your secondary education after 12 or 13 years at school. And I’d go on to explain that it’s a qualification that will get you into a German university.
