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German Phrase

Wie wär's, wenn wir's mal anders versuchen?

/viː vɛːrs, vɛn vɪrs maːl ˈan.dɐs fɛɐ̯ˈzuː.xn̩/
Meaning"How about we try it differently for once?"
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Meaning

This phrase is a polite and common way to suggest a new approach or method when the current one isn't working or when seeking improvement. It implies a desire for change and encourages exploring alternative solutions. The 'mal' adds a nuance of 'just for once' or 'let's just try it.'

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When to use

Use this phrase in situations where you want to propose a different strategy, especially when facing a challenge, a stalemate, or when brainstorming new ideas. It's suitable in both professional and casual settings, indicating a willingness to experiment and find a better way forward.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Wie wär's,wennwir'smalandersversuchen?

1

Wie wär's (Wie wäre es)

This is a common contraction of 'Wie wäre es', meaning 'How would it be' or 'How about it'. It's used to introduce suggestions or proposals.

2

wenn

'Wenn' introduces a subordinate clause, often translated as 'if' or 'when'. In this context, it sets up a hypothetical condition for the suggestion.

3

wir's (wir es)

Another common contraction, combining 'wir' (we) and 'es' (it). It's frequently used in spoken German to make sentences flow more naturally.

4

mal

This is a modal particle that adds a nuance of 'just', 'for once', or 'for a moment'. It softens requests or suggestions and makes them sound more casual and less demanding.

5

anders versuchen

'Anders' means 'differently', and 'versuchen' means 'to try'. Together, they form the core of the suggestion to attempt something in a new way.

🗨In Conversation

A

Dieses Projekt kommt einfach nicht voran.

This project just isn't making progress.

Ja, vielleicht sollten wir mal die Strategie ändern. Wie wär's, wenn wir's mal anders versuchen?

Yes, maybe we should change the strategy. How about we try it differently for once?

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Wie wäre es, wenn wir es anders probieren?

    While grammatically correct, 'versuchen' is generally preferred over 'probieren' when referring to trying a method or approach.

  • Wie wäre es, wenn wir es mal anders versuchen?

    In informal speech, 'wär's' and 'wir's' are very common contractions and sound more natural.

  • Wie wär's, wenn wir mal anders versuchen es?

    The verb 'versuchen' should be at the end of the subordinate clause introduced by 'wenn'.

↔Alternatives

  • Was wäre, wenn wir es anders machen?

    What if we do it differently?

  • Sollen wir es mal anders probieren?

    Shall we try it differently for once?

  • Lass uns einen anderen Weg gehen.

    Let's take a different path.

de

Cultural Tip

Germans value efficiency and directness in problem-solving. This phrase, while polite, is a direct suggestion for change, reflecting a pragmatic approach. The particle 'mal' softens the suggestion slightly, making it less demanding and more exploratory, implying 'just for a moment' or 'let's just give it a try.' It's a common way to introduce a new idea without being overly assertive.