German Phrase
Hier entlang, bitte.
Meaning
Literally ‘Here along, please’, the phrase is used to point someone in the right direction, equivalent to ‘This way, please’ in English. It combines a location cue (Hier), a directional adverb (entlang) and a polite request (bitte).
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to guide a person to a place – in shops, train stations, museums, or on the street. It’s especially handy when you’re a staff member, a local resident, or a fellow traveler who wants to be courteous.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Hierentlang,bitte
Hier
An adverb meaning ‘here’; it points to a location that is close to the speaker.
entlang
A directional adverb that follows the location word and means ‘along’ or ‘through’; it does not need a preposition.
bitte
A polite particle meaning ‘please’; placed at the end of the sentence in most German requests.
🗨In Conversation
Entschuldigung, wo finde ich den Ausgang?
Excuse me, where can I find the exit?
Hier entlang, bitte.
This way, please.
✕Common Mistakes
Hier bitte entlang.
The adverb ‘entlang’ should directly follow the location word; placing ‘bitte’ between them sounds unnatural.
Hier entlang bitte.
While understandable, the comma after ‘entlang’ is standard punctuation; omitting it can make the sentence feel rushed.
Hier entlang, gern.
‘Gern’ means ‘gladly’; it does not replace ‘bitte’ when giving directions.
↔Alternatives
Bitte gehen Sie hier entlang.
Please go this way.
Folgen Sie mir bitte hier entlang.
Please follow me this way.
Gehen Sie hier rechts.
Go right here.
Cultural Tip
In German, ‘bitte’ can appear at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence, but when giving directions it most naturally follows the directional phrase. Adding a smile and eye contact makes the instruction sound friendly and professional. In southern Germany and Austria you’ll also hear ‘Hier entlang, bitte schön’ for an extra touch of politeness.