how to "grease the wheels" of human discourse
38
votes
11answers
986 views
How can a native English speaker know when it is appropriate to use the polite (Sie) or the familiar (Du)?
In a language such as English, where there are no "built-in" (so to say) polite and familiar forms, what are some simple tips or guidelines for when to use the polite or the familiar forms? Are there ...
24
votes
10answers
4k views
Why is “Fräulein” considered offensive, as opposed to “Frau”?
Does Fräulein imply that the woman being addressed is not fully a Frau? Does it imply a lower class status?
6
votes
4answers
380 views
How to say “Thank you for teaching me that word” in German?
Using the polite form, I expect it to be something like:
Vielen Dank für lehren mich dieses Wort.
but I can't find any example thereof. What I have seen is "Vater, lehre mich..." translated to ...
5
votes
4answers
504 views
If my professor says “du”, can I use “du”, too?
Some professors and university personal always address their students with "du". Should I as a student reply with "du"?
If not, how can I ask them if its okay?
