The German Language Survival Kit for UK Expats in Germany is your go-to guide for mastering essential German phrases, vocabulary, and tips before and after your move. Whether you’re handling shopping, using public transport, or visiting a doctor, this kit gives you the confidence to thrive in daily life across Germany.
Why UK Expats Should Learn Basic German Before Moving
Moving to Germany as a UK expat can be an exciting adventure, but knowing some basic German is essential. With the German Language Survival Kit for UK Expats in Germany, you’ll feel more confident and prepared in everyday situations.
Understanding key phrases will help you navigate bureaucracy, socialize, and handle daily tasks like shopping, using transport, and visiting doctors.
Top 10 German Phrases Every UK Expat Needs Daily
- Hallo! Wie geht’s? [ˈhaloː ˈviː ɡeːts] – Hello! How are you?
- Ich spreche nur ein bisschen Deutsch. [ɪç ˈʃprɛçə nuːɐ̯ aɪn ˈbɪsçən] – I only speak a little German.
- Wo ist die Toilette? [voː ɪst diː toɪˈlɛtə] – Where is the toilet?
- Wie viel kostet das? [viː fiːl ˈkɔstət das] – How much does that cost?
- Entschuldigung [ɛntˈʃʊldɪɡʊŋ] – Excuse me / Sorry
- Können Sie mir helfen? [ˈkœnən ziː miːɐ̯ ˈhɛlfən] – Can you help me?
- Ich habe das nicht verstanden. [ɪç ˈhaːbə das nɪçt fɛɐ̯ˈʃtantən] – I didn’t understand that.
- Ich heiße … [ɪç ˈhaɪsə] – My name is …
- Danke schön! [ˈdaŋkə ʃøːn] – Thank you very much!
- Tschüss! [tʃʏs] – Bye!
Essential German Vocabulary for Everyday Life in Germany
| German Word | English |
|---|---|
| Bäckerei | Bakery |
| Apotheke | Pharmacy |
| Supermarkt | Supermarket |
| Arzt | Doctor |
| Rechnung | Bill / Invoice |
| Termin | Appointment |
How to Introduce Yourself and Ask for Help in German
When meeting someone or needing assistance:
Hallo, ich heiße Emily. Ich komme aus London. [ˈhaloː ɪç ˈhaɪsə ˈɛmɪliː] – Hello, my name is Emily. I’m from London.
Ich brauche Hilfe. [ɪç ˈbʁaʊ̯xə ˈhɪlfə] – I need help.
Shopping in Germany – Useful German Phrases and Words
Common questions and terms when shopping:
- Haben Sie …? [ˈhaːbən ziː] – Do you have …?
- Ich möchte das kaufen. [ɪç ˈmœçtə das ˈkaʊ̯fn] – I’d like to buy this.
- Kann ich mit Karte zahlen? [kan ɪç mɪt ˈkaʁtə ˈtsaːlən] – Can I pay by card?
Using Public Transport in Germany – Key German Terms
- Fahrkarte [ˈfaːɐ̯ˌkaʁtə] – Ticket
- Bahnhof [ˈbaːnˌhoːf] – Train station
- Einzelfahrschein [ˈaɪ̯nʦl̩ˌfaːɐ̯ˌʃaɪ̯n] – Single ticket
Ask for help: Wie komme ich zum Hauptbahnhof? [viː ˈkɔmə ɪç tsʊm ˈhaʊ̯ptˌbaːnhoːf] – How do I get to the main station?
Speaking German at the Doctor’s Office and Pharmacy
Ich habe Schmerzen. [ɪç ˈhaːbə ˈʃmɛʁʦn] – I have pain.
Mir ist schlecht. [miːɐ̯ ɪst ʃlɛçt] – I feel sick.
Ich brauche ein Rezept. [ɪç ˈbʁaʊ̯xə aɪ̯n ʁeˈʦɛpt] – I need a prescription.
Understanding German Signs, Menus, and Instructions
- Eingang [ˈaɪ̯nɡaŋ] – Entrance
- Ausgang [ˈaʊ̯sɡaŋ] – Exit
- Kein Zutritt [kaɪ̯n ˈʦuːtʁɪt] – No Entry
- Täglich geöffnet [ˈtɛːklɪç ɡəˈœfnət] – Open daily
How to Handle Paperwork and Appointments in German
Ich habe einen Termin beim Bürgeramt. [ɪç ˈhaːbə ˈaɪ̯nən tɛʁˈmiːn baɪ̯m ˈbʏʁɡɐʔamt] – I have an appointment at the citizen’s office.
Welche Unterlagen brauche ich? [ˈvɛlçə ˈʊntɐˌlaːɡn ˈbʁaʊ̯xə ɪç] – What documents do I need?
Tips for Practicing German Daily as a UK Expat
- Label items in your home with German names
- Practice small talk with neighbors or shop staff
- Set your phone and apps to German
Free Resources to Learn German Quickly and Effectively
- Duolingo, Babbel, and Deutsche Welle courses
- YouTube channels like Learn German with Anja
- Podcasts such as “Coffee Break German”
Common Language Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Confusing Sie (formal you) with du (informal you)
- Wrong gender articles: der, die, das
- Misusing verb position in sentences
How to Make German Friends and Improve Your Speaking
Join local clubs, attend meetups, or join conversation cafés. Say:
Wollen wir uns auf einen Kaffee treffen? [ˈvɔlən viːɐ̯ ʊns aʊ̯f ˈaɪ̯nən ˈkafeː ˈtʁɛfn] – Shall we meet for a coffee?
Useful German Apps for UK Expats Living in Germany
- Deepl (translation)
- Anki (flashcards)
- Google Translate with camera feature
Conclusion: Build Confidence with This German Survival Kit
With this German Language Survival Kit for UK Expats in Germany, you’ll be ready to navigate life with confidence. From greetings to doctor visits, this guide helps you survive and thrive in Germany.
FAQ – German Language Survival Kit for UK Expats
Can I get by in Germany with only English?
In large cities, yes. But knowing basic German will make daily life much easier.
What is the easiest way to start learning German?
Use beginner-friendly apps, listen to German podcasts, and practice simple phrases daily.
Do I need to speak German to find a job in Germany?
It depends on the job. For many roles, basic German is expected, especially in customer-facing positions.
How can I improve my German outside of classes?
Talk to locals, use flashcards like Anki, and set your phone and apps to German.
Are there free resources to help UK expats learn German?
Yes. Try Duolingo, Deutsche Welle, and YouTube channels like Learn German with Anja.