How to Say ‘Say / tell (formal)’ in German
Sagen Sie
ZAH-gen zee
[ZAH-gen zee]
💬 Usage Tip: "Sie" is the formal "you," perfect for neighbours you don't know well yet. Bonus: it is always capitalized.
🇩🇪 In Germany: In Germany, starting with formal "Sie" is usually safest with neighbours unless they invite you to use "du."
Phrase Breakdown
Sagen
[ZAH-gen]
tell / say
Formal imperative of 'sagen,' used when politely addressing someone.
Sagen Sie bitte Bescheid.
Please let me know.
Sie
[zee]
you
Formal 'you' used to address one person politely, or more than one person formally.
Sagen Sie mir bitte Bescheid.
Please let me know.
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