01
geehrt
dear
Used as a form of address in formal letters or speeches to express respect.
example
Sehr geehrte Frau Schmidt, anbei sende ich Ihnen die gewünschten Unterlagen.
Dear Ms. Schmidt, attached I am sending you the requested documents.
geehrt
honored
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 03
Usage tips
Word structure
'Geehrt' (honored) is the past participle of the verb 'ehren' (to honor). All meanings of the adjective derive from the basic idea of showing someone honor or respect.
EXAMPLE
Die Soldatin wurde für ihren Mut geehrt.
The female soldier was honored for her courage.
Formal address
The phrase 'Sehr geehrte...' (Dear...) is a fixed formula for the salutation in formal letters and emails. The adjective ending adapts to the gender and number of the people being addressed.
EXAMPLE
Sehr geehrter Herr Professor, ...
Dear Professor, ...
Fixed expression
The expression 'sich geehrt fühlen' (to feel honored) is a fixed reflexive phrase. It expresses that one experiences a gesture or invitation as a sign of great appreciation.
EXAMPLE
Ich fühle mich geehrt, dass Sie mich um meine Meinung fragen.
I feel honored that you are asking me for my opinion.
Compare with
geehrt vs lieb
nice / dear
'lieb' and 'geehrt' can both appear in greetings in letters or emails. The difference lies in your relationship to the person. 'Liebe' or 'Lieber' is used when you know the person well or want to write in a friendly, personal way. 'Sehr geehrte' or 'Sehr geehrter' is formal and fits government offices, companies, or people you do not know well. Learners can confuse the words because both seem polite. As a practical rule: personal and warm is 'lieb'; official and respectful is 'geehrt'.
geehrt
Sehr geehrte Frau Müller, ich schreibe Ihnen wegen meines Termins.
Dear Ms. Müller, I am writing to you about my appointment.
lieb
Liebe Anna, danke für deine nette Nachricht.
Dear Anna, thank you for your nice message.
In real life
Loading video examples...