How to Say ‘How are you?’ in German
Wie geht es Ihnen?
vee geyt ess ee-nuhn
[vee geyt ess ee-nuhn]
💬 Usage Tip: [Ihnen] is the formal [you], and here it changes shape because it's after [geht es]. You'll see the same formal [you] in many set phrases: [Kann ich Ihnen helfen?].
🇩🇪 In Germany: This is polite and normal with people you don't know well, but in Germany it's less routine than in some countries to ask strangers this as a casual greeting.
Phrase Breakdown
Wie
[vee]
How
Used to ask about the state, condition, or manner.
Wie ist das Wetter heute?
How is the weather today?
geht
[geyt]
going
Refers to the state of movement or operation.
Es geht um die Welt.
It's going around the world.
es
[ess]
it
Refers to a thing previously mentioned or easily identified.
Es ist ein schönes Auto.
It is a beautiful car.
Ihnen
[ee-nuhn]
you (formal)
Used as a polite or formal form of address.
Wie kann ich Ihnen helfen?
How can I help you?
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