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How to Say ‘Excuse me, is this seat free?’ in German

Entschuldigung, ist hier noch frei?

ent-SHOOL-dee-goong ist heer nokh fry

[ent-SHOOL-dee-goong ist heer nokh fry]

🇩🇪 In Germany: Sharing long tables with strangers is completely normal in a beer tent, and this is the standard way to ask. Tables marked Reserviert "reserved" are off-limits, so check for a sign first.

Phrase Breakdown

Entschuldigung,

ent-SHOOL-dee-goong

Excuse me,

A polite way to get someone's attention. The stress falls on 'schul'. The 'ch' is a soft throat sound.

Example

Entschuldigung, wo ist der Bahnhof?

Excuse me, where is the train station?

Words in this phrase

Entschuldigung

[ent-SHOOL-dee-goong]

excuse me / sorry

Used to get attention politely or to apologize for a small mistake.

Example

Entschuldigung, wo ist der Bahnhof?

Excuse me, where is the train station?

ist hier noch frei?

ist heer nokh fry

is this seat still free?

The standard question for asking whether a seat is free. Say it smoothly in one breath, with rising intonation.

Example

Ist hier noch frei? Ja, bitte.

Is this seat free? Yes, please.

Words in this phrase

ist

[ist]

A form of the verb 'sein' used for singular subjects.

Example

Für viele Bewerber Ist ein gutes Teamklima entscheidend.

For many applicants, a good team climate is crucial.

hier

[heer]

here

Refers to this place, such as the current event or location.

Example

Es ist gut, hier neue Leute kennenzulernen.

It is good to meet new people here.

noch

[nokh]

another / still

Adds the idea of one more thing.

Example

Ich habe noch einen Vorschlag für unser Treffen.

I still have another suggestion for our meeting.

frei

[fry]

available, free

Not occupied or booked; open for use.

Example

Ist dieser Tisch noch frei?

Is this table still available?

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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