01
bitte
please
A particle used to formulate a polite request or instruction.
example
Gib mir bitte das Salz.
Please pass me the salt.
bitte
please
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The word 'bitte' comes from the verb 'bitten' (to ask/request). So when you say 'bitte' (please), you are literally formulating a small 'Bitte' (request).
EXAMPLE
Ich möchte Sie um einen Gefallen bitten.
I would like to ask you for a favor.
Context is everything
The meaning of 'bitte' depends heavily on the situation. Whether it is a request, a response to 'Danke' (thank you), or an offer can be recognized from the context and from the reaction of the person you are speaking to.
EXAMPLE
Hier, bitte, das ist für Sie. – Oh, danke! – Bitte!
Here you go, this is for you. — Oh, thank you! — You're welcome!
Flexible word order
In a polite request or instruction, 'bitte' can flexibly stand at the beginning, in the middle, or at the end of the sentence without changing the meaning.
EXAMPLE
Bitte schließen Sie die Tür.
Please close the door.
Response to "thank you"
In response to 'Danke' (thank you), 'bitte' (you're welcome) is the most common and natural answer. It is short, polite, and used in almost all situations.
EXAMPLE
Hier ist dein Kaffee. – Oh, danke schön! – Bitte.
Here is your coffee. — Oh, thank you very much! — You're welcome.
Polite follow-up question
If you did not understand something, 'Wie bitte?' (Pardon?) is a polite and neutral way to ask for repetition. It is much more polite than 'Was?' (What?).
EXAMPLE
Entschuldigung, die Verbindung war schlecht. Wie bitte?
Sorry, the connection was bad. Pardon?
Emphasis
The forms 'bitte schön' and 'bitte sehr' are somewhat more formal or emphatic than the simple 'bitte'. They are often used in service situations when handing something to someone.
EXAMPLE
Einmal Pommes mit Ketchup, bitte sehr!
One order of fries with ketchup—here you are!
Compare with
bitte vs mal
once / times
'mal' and 'bitte' can both appear in instructions and make them sound friendlier. 'bitte' is the normal word for a polite request and fits almost any situation. 'mal' sounds more casual and everyday. It makes an instruction less strict, but it is not as clearly polite as 'bitte'. Learners may confuse the words because both can appear in sentences like 'Komm mal' or 'Komm bitte'. If you definitely want to sound polite, use 'bitte'. If it should sound casual and familiar, 'mal' often fits well.
bitte
Schick mir bitte die Adresse vor dem Termin.
Please send me the address before the appointment.
mal
Timo, schau mal kurz auf diese Nachricht.
Timo, just take a quick look at this message.
In real life
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