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How to Say ‘But only if you're nice.’ in German

Aber nur, wenn du nett bist.

ah-ber noor VEN doo net bist

[ah-ber noor VEN doo net bist]

🇩🇪 In Germany: A playful condition, not a real demand. Said with a smile, it's classic light bar teasing that invites the other person to play along.

Phrase Breakdown

Aber nur,

ah-ber noor

But only

'Aber' means 'but' and 'nur' means 'only'. Pause briefly at the comma.

Example

Aber nur heute.

But only today.

Words in this phrase

Aber

[ah-ber]

But

Used to introduce a contrasting view or statement.

Example

Ich mag Tee, aber ich liebe Kaffee.

I like tea, but I love coffee.

nur

[noor]

only

No more than; exclusively.

Example

Nur du kannst das tun.

Only you can do that.

wenn du nett bist.

VEN doo net bist

if you are nice.

This is a 'wenn' clause, so the verb 'bist' moves to the end.

Example

Ich komme, wenn du nett bist.

I'll come if you're nice.

Words in this phrase

wenn

[VEN]

Indicates a condition or supposition.

Example

Wenn es regnet, bleiben wir zu Hause.

If it rains, we will stay at home.

[doo]

you (singular/informal)

Used when speaking to one person informally.

Example

Wie fühlst du dich heute Abend?

How do you feel this evening?

nett

[net]

nice

Used to describe someone or something as nice, kind, or pleasant.

Example

Das Personal ist nett.

The staff is nice.

bist

[bist]

are

The second person singular form of 'to be'.

Example

Du bist pünktlich.

You are punctual.

Guides for German learners

Duolingo vs Pimsleur: Tapping on a Screen or Talking Out Loud?Duolingo vs Pimsleur: five minutes of tapping versus thirty minutes of speaking. What each is good at, what each costs, and which to pick for your goal.

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