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German Phrase

Hallo, ich habe eine Reservierung.

/ˈhalo ɪç ˈhaːbə ˈaɪ̯nə rezɛrˈviːrʊŋ/
Meaning"Hello, I have a reservation."
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Meaning

This phrase is a straightforward and polite way to inform someone that you have a booking or appointment. It directly translates to "Hello, I have a reservation" and is widely understood in German-speaking contexts.

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When to use

You would typically use this phrase when arriving at a restaurant, hotel, doctor's office, or any establishment where you have pre-booked a service or spot. It's suitable for both formal and informal settings, making it a versatile and essential phrase for travelers.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Hallo, ichhabeeineReservierung.

1

Hallo

'Hallo' is the most common and versatile greeting in German, suitable for almost any situation, similar to 'Hello' in English.

2

ich habe

'Ich habe' means 'I have'. 'Haben' is the verb 'to have' and is conjugated here for the first person singular 'ich'.

3

eine Reservierung

'Reservierung' is a feminine noun meaning 'reservation'. 'Eine' is the indefinite feminine article, meaning 'a' or 'an'.

🗨In Conversation

A

Hallo, ich habe eine Reservierung.

Hello, I have a reservation.

Auf welchen Namen bitte?

Under what name, please?

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Hallo, ich bin eine Reservierung.

    The verb 'sein' (to be) is incorrect here. You 'have' a reservation, you are not 'a reservation'.

  • Hallo, ich habe ein Reservierung.

    Reservierung is a feminine noun, so it requires the feminine indefinite article 'eine', not 'ein'.

↔Alternatives

  • Guten Tag, ich hätte eine Reservierung.

    Good day, I would have a reservation. (More formal/polite)

  • Ich habe eine Reservierung auf den Namen [Name].

    I have a reservation under the name [Name].

  • Entschuldigen Sie, ich habe eine Reservierung.

    Excuse me, I have a reservation. (Slightly more polite, for getting attention)

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Cultural Tip

Germans appreciate directness and clarity in communication, especially in service situations. This phrase is perfectly appropriate and efficient. While 'Hallo' is common, using 'Guten Tag' (Good day) can be slightly more formal and is a safe choice throughout the day, especially when addressing staff in establishments. Always make eye contact and be prepared to state your name or the time of your reservation.