German · Greetings & Phrases

Bitte

Please / You are welcome

Beginneradverb

Definition

Used to make polite requests; also used as a response to thank you.

Example

Ein Kaffee, bitte.

A coffee, please.

Etymology

'Bitte' translates to 'please' or 'you are welcome.' It originates from the Old High German 'bitten,' which means 'to ask' or 'to request.'

How & Where It’s Used

'Bitte' is used in both formal and informal contexts as a polite request or response. It is common in both spoken and written forms throughout German-speaking regions.

Watch “Please / You are welcome” pronunciation on YouTube
politerequest

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