Auf Wiedersehen
/aʊf ˈviːdɐˌzeːən/
goodbye
Auf Wiedersehen, Herr Schmidt!
Goodbye, Mr. Schmidt!
formal
A formal or polite way to say goodbye in German, often used in written or spoken contexts where a more formal tone is appropriate.
Sie sagte Auf Wiedersehen und verließ den Raum.
She said goodbye and left the room.
While 'Tschüss' is more casual, 'Auf Wiedersehen' is the standard formal way to say goodbye in German.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal
Use 'Auf Wiedersehen' in formal contexts or with strangers, while 'Tschüss' is more casual.
Word Origin
Literally 'until we see each other again', combining 'auf' (until), 'wieder' (again), and 'sehen' (to see).
Usage Notes
Used in formal settings, letters, or when addressing someone with respect. Less common in casual conversation among friends.
Word Breakdown
Auf
until
prefixWieder
again
rootsehen
to see
rootDeutsch-Englisch Wörterbuch