How To Shop In German

If you go in “ein Kaufhaus” (big store) in Germany, which basically sells everythung from “Gürtel” (belts) to „Waschmaschinen“, at least some of the „Verkäufer“ (vendor) should be able to speak some English. But if you go to one of the many smaller „Läden“ (shops) you might have a problem if you don‘t know at least some German sentences.

In a “Kleidergeschäft” (clothes shop), you’ll have to find the right “Abteilung” (department) first. „Herrenmode“ is for Man, „Damenmode“ is for Woman, and „Kindermode“ is for Children. Then, you’ll have to find the “Abteilung” selling the clothes you are looking for.

If you want a shirt, ask for “ein Hemd”. “Eine Hose” is a pair of trousers and a jacket is „eine Jacke“. A suit is “ein Anzug”, and a tie is “eine Krawatte” or „ein Schlipps. Shoes are “Schuhe”.

The size system is different in Germany. Even if they have the S, M, L, XL system, they are not the same. For example, a German S is roughly the same as a US M, but of course that can vary and if in doubt you should try it on before you buy it. To do that, ask for “die Umkleidekabine” (fitting room). „Der Verkäufer“ will show you the way.

If you want to buy some accessories: „Sonnenbrille“ means sunglasses, „ein Ring“ is a ring, „ein Halsband“ is a necklace, „ein Ohrring“ is an earring and a watch is „eine Armbanduhr“.

In Berlin and other big cities like Munich or Cologne you‘ll find hundreds of places where you could buy souvenirs. They are usually located near the touristic sites like „der Kölner Dom“ (the cologne cathedral) and sell a variety of souvenirs. If you want something less „kitschig“ (tacky) you might want to have a look at a small market where they usually sell „Produkte aus der Region“ (local products) like sausages or wine. Chances are you won‘t get very far without speaking German there. In some cases you‘ll be able to „den Preis aushandeln“ (negotiate the price). In these small markets you‘ll have to pay in cash since they usually don‘t take credit cards there. Everywhere else you should be able to use your Master Card or Visa Card; American Express however is not very common in Germany.

After paying, you‘ll receive „einen Kassenzettel“ (a receipt). You should keep it, in case you want to return the item.

Learn German with LingoBasics - 60 day money back guaranteed if you're not completely satisfiedd