Learn German for Beginners: Basic German Words & Phrases to Start

Learning a new language is one of the best ways to expand your world. German, spoken by over 100 million people across Europe, is not just a gateway to Germany, but also Austria, Switzerland, and parts of Belgium, Luxembourg, and Liechtenstein. If you’re looking to travel, study, work, or simply challenge yourself, German is a practical and rewarding language to learn.

For beginners, the German language can seem intimidating at first, long compound words, unfamiliar sounds, and formal versus informal speech. But don’t worry. You don’t have to master everything at once. Starting with basic German words and phrases is the perfect first step to build your confidence and feel comfortable using the language in everyday situations.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through essential German greetings, common conversation starters, survival phrases, numbers, everyday vocabulary, and tips for pronunciation and practice. Ready? Let’s get started.

Basic German Greetings and Polite Phrases

Greetings are your first impression. Here are some must-know basic German words for beginners to say hello, thank you, and express politeness:

Using polite phrases regularly shows respect and instantly makes conversations smoother, even if your grammar isn’t perfect.

Small talk and introductions are great ways to start using the language. These basic German phrases will help you talk to new people, ask questions, and express yourself.

These phrases are especially useful when meeting people or asking for help in a new place.

Common Everyday German Words

Here’s a list of common German words that are part of daily conversation and help you navigate situations like shopping, eating, or exploring a city.

By practicing these basic German words for beginners, you’ll find it easier to recognize vocabulary around you, on signs, menus, or when talking to others.

Numbers in German for Beginners

Learning numbers is essential, especially for shopping, transport, or time. Start with these:

Once you’ve memorized the numbers 1–10, continue learning patterns in numbers 11–100. They follow regular rules in German.

Knowing how to ask simple questions and give short answers is the key to interacting confidently. Here are some common German phrases:

These simple Q&A patterns are very helpful when dining out, shopping, or navigating public places.

Survival Phrases for Travel and Emergencies

When traveling, some phrases are crucial. These will help you manage unexpected situations:

• Help! – Hilfe!
• I’m lost – Ich habe mich verirrt
• I need a doctor – Ich brauche einen Arzt
• I’m allergic to... – Ich bin allergisch gegen..
• Call the police! – Rufen Sie die Polizei!

Always keep these in mind, especially when traveling solo or visiting a new German-speaking city.

Pronunciation Tips for Beginners

Pronouncing German words correctly helps people understand you better. Here are a few tips:

• “W” is pronounced like English “V” – e.g., Wasser = Vasser
• “V” is often like “F” – e.g., Vater = Fah-ter
• “S” at the beginning of words can sound like “Z” – Sonne = Zon-neh
• “CH” is a soft raspy sound, similar to clearing your throat – Ich, Buch

Listening to native speakers through audio lessons or apps can improve your accent naturally.

Tips for Practicing and Memorizing German Phrases

A few smart ways to retain new words and phrases:

• Practice daily: Speak the words out loud every day, even if it’s just 10 minutes.
• Use flashcards: Apps like Anki or Quizlet are great for building vocabulary.
• Watch German shows or YouTube videos: Even cartoons or slow speech videos help beginners a lot.
• Repeat and write: Repeating words and writing them down reinforces memory.
• Use language apps: Duolingo, Babbel, or Memrise offer structured lessons and gamified learning.

Consistency is more important than duration. Ten focused minutes a day are better than an hour once a week.

To make your German learning journey smoother, here are some tools and platforms:

• Apps: Duolingo, Babbel, Memrise
• YouTube Channels: Learn German with Anja, Easy German, GermanPod101
• Podcasts: Coffee Break German, Slow German
• Flashcard Tools: Anki, Quizlet
• Books: “German Made Simple”, “Learn German in 30 Days”

And of course, if you want personalized guidance

Beginner’s Guide to Learning German Online in 2025

Learning German online in 2025 is one of the best ways to explore new opportunities—whether you want to study abroad, work for a global company, travel across Europe, or simply pick up a new skill. The good news? Thanks to the internet, learning German today is more flexible, convenient, and beginner-friendly than ever before.

This guide is perfect for students, working professionals, or anyone just starting out. It will help you take your first steps toward understanding, speaking, reading, and writing in German—with simple tips and tools to get you started.

If you’re looking for a full step-by-step plan, check out our detailed blog:

Want to Learn German the Right Way?

Starting your German learning journey doesn’t have to be difficult. By focusing on basic German words, common phrases, and practical usage, you can make fast progress. Consistency, speaking practice, and the right resources can take you from a beginner to a confident communicator.

So don’t wait for the perfect time; start today, and you’ll be surprised how quickly you can learn.

Join Interval Learning’s Speak German Program

Learning a language is easier when experts guide you. At Interval Learning, our Speak German course is designed not just for absolute beginners, but also for school students, working professionals, and anyone who wants to learn a new language. Whether you're starting with “Hallo” or already know a bit of German, this course will help you confidently build real conversation skills in just a few months.

What you get:

• Live one-on-one sessions with expert German trainers
• Structured modules from A1 to B1 levels
• Real speaking practice, not just grammar
• Flexible timings to suit your routine
• Progress tracking and daily speaking drills
• Additional resources like flashcards, worksheets, and revision tests

Whether you're a student, a professional, or someone who simply wants to learn a new language, this course is perfect to build fluency with confidence.

Book a demo Class with Interval Learning today and start your journey to speaking German effortlessly.

Join Interval Learning’s Speak German course now to take the first step!