“Könnten Sie mir helfen?”
Could you help me?
WorkplaceFormalA2
Literal Translation
Word for word: “Could you me help?”
Pronunciation
/ˈkœntn̩ ziː miːɐ̯ ˈhɛlfn̩/
When to Use This Phrase
Using 'Könnten' (Konjunktiv II of können) rather than 'Können' adds politeness. Germans value respectful, formal communication in the workplace.
Example Sentences
Könnten Sie mir bitte bei diesem Projekt helfen?
Could you please help me with this project?
Könnten Sie mir kurz helfen?
Could you help me briefly?
Word Breakdown
Related Phrases
Test Your German Level
Think you know your German phrases? Take our free level assessment to find out where you stand.
Start Assessment