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Könnten Sie mir bitte den Weg zum Bahnhof zeigen?
Could you please show me the way to the train station? - This is a classic and versatile way to make a polite request in German. It's suitable for most situations, whether you're asking someone to pass the salt at dinner or requesting directions on the street.
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Würden Sie so nett sein und die Tür aufhalten?
Would you be so kind as to hold the door open? - This is another great option for expressing your politeness. It emphasizes your appreciation for the person's help and makes your request sound even more courteous.
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Entschuldigen Sie, könnten Sie mir bitte die Uhrzeit sagen?
Excuse me, could you please tell me the time? - This adds a layer of politeness by first acknowledging the possibility of interrupting or inconveniencing the person. It's helpful in situations where you might need to get someone's attention before making your request.
- Hätten Sie vielleicht einen Moment Zeit für mich?
Would you perhaps have a moment for me? - This is a polite way to ask someone if they're available to talk or help you with something. It avoids assuming their availability and shows respect for their time.
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Würden Sie sich bitte um diese Aufgabe kümmern?
Would you please take care of this task? - This is a good way to make a polite request that might involve a slight inconvenience for the other person. It softens the request and acknowledges that you understand it might be a bit of a bother.
I would be very grateful if you could give me the phone number of the nearest pharmacy. - This expresses your sincere appreciation for the person's help and highlights the value you place on their assistance. It's a good choice for more important requests.
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Könnten Sie mir bitte einen Tipp geben?
Could you please give me a tip? - This is a polite way to ask for advice or suggestions. It shows that you respect the person's knowledge and experience and are open to their input.
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Würden Sie es bitte in Ordnung finden, wenn ich eine Aufnahme von Ihnen machen könnte?
Would you mind if I took a picture of you? - This is a roundabout way of making a request, especially if it's something that might require the other person to bend the rules or make an exception. It allows them to feel like they have a choice in the matter and makes the request less demanding.
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Dürfte ich Sie bitte etwas fragen?
Might I ask you something? - This is a formal way to ask a question, especially if you're addressing someone you don't know well or someone in a position of authority. It shows respect and deference.
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Hätten Sie etwas dagegen, wenn ich Ihnen ein paar Fragen stelle?
Would you mind if I asked you a few questions? - This is similar to "Würden Sie es bitte in Ordnung finden, wenn...?" but phrased in a slightly more negative way. It's still polite, but it emphasizes the potential inconvenience for the other person.
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Vielen Dank im Voraus!
Thank you in advance! - This is a great way to show your appreciation for the person's help, even before they've done anything. It adds a touch of courtesy and shows that you're confident they'll be able to assist you.