German Phrase
Kannst du das bitte noch mal sagen?
Meaning
This phrase is a polite way to ask someone to repeat something they've said. It literally translates to "Can you please say that one more time?" or "Can you please say that again?". It's used when you didn't understand, misheard, or simply want clarification.
When to use
Use this phrase in everyday conversations when you need someone to repeat themselves, whether you didn't catch what they said, didn't understand a word, or just want to confirm. It's suitable for informal settings with friends, family, or people you address with 'du'.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Kannstdudasbittenoch malsagen?
Können (Kannst)
'Können' means 'can' or 'to be able to'. 'Kannst' is the informal conjugation for 'du' (you). It's used to ask for ability or permission, or to make a polite request.
du
'Du' is the informal 'you' in German, used for friends, family, children, and people you know well. For formal situations, you would use 'Sie' (Können Sie...).
das
'Das' means 'that' or 'it'. In this context, it refers to the statement or information that was just said.
bitte
'Bitte' means 'please'. It's crucial for politeness in German requests and questions. Always include it to sound courteous.
noch mal
'Noch mal' literally means 'one more time' or 'again'. It's a common and natural way to express repetition in spoken German.
sagen
'Sagen' means 'to say' or 'to tell'. It's the infinitive form of the verb, which appears at the end of the sentence in this type of modal verb construction.
🗨In Conversation
Ich gehe heute Abend ins Kino.
I'm going to the cinema tonight.
Oh, wirklich? Kannst du das bitte noch mal sagen?
Oh, really? Can you please say that again?
✕Common Mistakes
Kannst du das wiederholen?
While 'wiederholen' means 'to repeat', 'noch mal sagen' is much more common and natural in spoken German for asking someone to repeat a statement. 'Wiederholen' is often used for repeating actions or lessons.
Du kannst das bitte noch mal sagen?
In German questions, the conjugated verb typically comes first. 'Kannst du...' is the correct interrogative structure.
Kannst du das noch mal sagen?
Omitting 'bitte' makes the request sound less polite, almost like a demand. Always include 'bitte' for politeness, especially when asking for a favor.
↔Alternatives
Wie bitte?
Pardon? / Excuse me?
Noch einmal, bitte.
Once more, please.
Könnten Sie das bitte wiederholen?
Could you please repeat that?
Entschuldigung, ich habe das nicht verstanden.
Excuse me, I didn't understand that.
Cultural Tip
Germans appreciate directness, but politeness is still key. Using 'bitte' (please) is essential when making requests. While 'Kannst du...' is informal, using 'Könnten Sie...' (Could you...) is more formal and appropriate for strangers, superiors, or in professional settings. Don't be afraid to ask for clarification; it's better to ask than to misunderstand.