Learning German supermarket phrases is essential for a smooth shopping experience in Germany. Whether you’re a tourist or a new resident, knowing how to ask for items, understand prices, and communicate politely at the checkout will save you time and stress.
Must-Know German Phrases for Grocery Shopping
Here are essential phrases to help you get started:
- Ich hätte gern … (ɪç ˈhɛtə ɡɛrn) – I would like …
- Wie viel kostet das? (viː fiːl ˈkɔstət das) – How much does that cost?
- Wo finde ich …? (voː ˈfɪndə ɪç) – Where can I find …?
How to Ask for Help, Prices, or Discounts in German
If you need assistance or want to check prices:
- Können Sie mir helfen? (ˈkœnən ziː miːɐ̯ ˈhɛlfən) – Can you help me?
- Gibt es heute Angebote? (ɡɪpt ɛs ˈhɔɪtə ˈaŋɡəˌboːtə) – Are there any offers today?
- Wie teuer ist das? (viː ˈtɔɪɐ ɪst das) – How expensive is it?
Questions to Locate Products and Aisles in the Store
Ask where things are located:
- Wo ist das Brot? – Where is the bread?
- In welchem Gang ist die Milch? – In which aisle is the milk?
German Phrases to Use at the Checkout and While Paying
Be polite and efficient when paying:
- Ich zahle bar. – I’m paying in cash.
- Mit Karte, bitte. – By card, please.
- Die Quittung, bitte. – The receipt, please.
German Vocabulary for Popular Supermarket Items
| English | German |
|---|---|
| Bread | Brot |
| Milk | Milch |
| Eggs | Eier |
| Cheese | Käse |
| Water | Wasser |
Beginner Tips for Shopping in German Supermarkets
- Bring your own bags – plastic bags cost extra.
- Weigh fruits and vegetables before checkout if required.
- Be quick at the checkout – bag your items fast.
Common Signs and Labels in German Supermarkets
| German | English |
|---|---|
| Angebot | Special offer |
| Reduziert | Discounted |
| Pfand | Deposit (for bottles) |
| Kasse | Checkout |
Useful Dialogues for a Typical Supermarket Visit
Customer: Entschuldigung, wo finde ich die Eier?
Employee: Im dritten Gang rechts.
Translation: Excuse me, where can I find the eggs? – In the third aisle on the right.
What to Say if You Don’t Understand German
- Ich spreche nur ein wenig Deutsch. – I only speak a little German.
- Können Sie das bitte wiederholen? – Can you please repeat that?
- Was bedeutet das? – What does that mean?
How to Ask About Organic, Vegan, or Halal Products
- Haben Sie Bio-Produkte? – Do you have organic products?
- Gibt es vegane Optionen? – Are there vegan options?
- Ist dieses Produkt halal? – Is this product halal?
Printable PDF: German Supermarket Phrase Cheat Sheet
Need a handy list to take with you? Download the printable German supermarket phrases PDF to have these expressions on the go.
Conclusion: Shop with Confidence in German Supermarkets
Mastering these German supermarket phrases will make your shopping experience much smoother and more enjoyable. Don’t hesitate to practice with locals or use your cheat sheet as you go. Viel Erfolg – good luck!