German Phrase
Sag ihnen höflich, dass du ein anderes Angebot hast.
Meaning
This phrase is used to inform someone, usually in a negotiation or business context, that you have received a different, potentially better, offer. It's a polite way to leverage your position or decline an offer without being confrontational. The 'höflich' (politely) emphasizes the respectful tone.
When to use
You would typically use this phrase when you are in a negotiation (e.g., for a job, a contract, or a purchase) and want to signal that you have other options. It can be used to encourage a better offer from the current party or to politely decline their offer while maintaining a good relationship. It's suitable for both professional and personal situations where you need to communicate having alternatives.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Sagihnenhöflich,dassdueinanderesAngebothast.
Sag (Imperative)
'Sag' is the informal singular imperative form of the verb 'sagen' (to say/tell). It's used when giving a command or making a request to one person you address with 'du'.
ihnen (Dative Pronoun)
'Ihnen' is the dative plural pronoun meaning 'to them.' The verb 'sagen' typically takes a dative object for the person being told and an accusative object for what is being said.
höflich (Adverb)
'Höflich' means 'polite' and functions here as an adverb modifying the verb 'sag,' indicating how the action of telling should be performed.
dass (Subordinating Conjunction)
'Dass' means 'that' and introduces a subordinate clause. In German, when a clause is introduced by 'dass,' the conjugated verb ('hast' in this case) moves to the very end of that clause.
ein anderes Angebot (Noun Phrase)
'Ein anderes Angebot' means 'another offer.' 'Anderes' is an adjective modifying 'Angebot' and is declined according to its gender and case (neuter, accusative here).
🗨In Conversation
Wir würden Ihnen gerne diese Position anbieten.
We would like to offer you this position.
Vielen Dank! Ich muss es mir überlegen. Ich werde Ihnen bald Bescheid geben, aber ich muss Ihnen höflich sagen, dass ich ein anderes Angebot habe.
Thank you very much! I need to think about it. I will let you know soon, but I must politely tell you that I have another offer.
✕Common Mistakes
Sag sie höflich, dass du ein anderes Angebot hast.
The verb 'sagen' (to tell) requires a dative object for the person being told. 'Sie' is accusative; 'ihnen' (to them) is dative.
Sag ihnen höflich, dass du hast ein anderes Angebot.
In a subordinate clause introduced by 'dass' (that), the conjugated verb ('hast') must go to the very end of the clause.
Erzähl ihnen höflich, dass du ein anderes Angebot hast.
'Erzählen' means 'to narrate' or 'to tell a story.' While similar, 'sagen' is more appropriate for conveying a piece of information or a fact.
↔Alternatives
Informiere sie freundlich, dass du eine andere Option hast.
Inform them kindly that you have another option.
Lass sie wissen, dass du bereits ein anderes Angebot hast.
Let them know that you already have another offer.
Erkläre ihnen nett, dass du eine Alternative in Betracht ziehst.
Explain to them nicely that you are considering an alternative.
Cultural Tip
In German-speaking cultures, directness is often valued, but politeness ('Höflichkeit') is equally important, especially in professional settings. This phrase strikes a good balance: it's direct about having another offer but softens it with 'höflich.' While Germans appreciate clear communication, being overly aggressive in negotiations can be counterproductive. Using 'höflich' ensures you convey your position respectfully, which is generally well-received.