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German Phrase

Kann ich kurz mit dem Chef sprechen, bitte?

/kan ɪç kʊʁt͡s mɪt deːm ʃɛf ˈʃpʁɛçn̩ ˈbɪtə/
Meaning"Can I speak briefly with the boss, please?"
💡

Meaning

This phrase is a polite and direct way to request a short conversation with a superior or manager. It implies that the matter is important enough to warrant their attention but can be discussed quickly. The 'bitte' at the end adds a crucial layer of politeness.

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When to use

Use this phrase in a professional setting when you need to address your boss or manager about something that requires their input or decision, but you anticipate it won't take a long time. It's suitable for approaching a secretary, assistant, or even the boss directly if they are available.

✦Grammar Breakdown

KannichkurzmitdemChefsprechen,bitte?

1

Können (Kann)

'Können' means 'can' or 'to be able to'. Here, 'Kann' is the first-person singular conjugation, used to ask for permission or possibility. It's a modal verb, so the main verb ('sprechen') goes to the end of the sentence.

2

kurz

This adverb means 'briefly' or 'for a short time'. It indicates that the requested conversation will not take long, making the request more considerate of the other person's time.

3

mit dem Chef

'Mit' is a preposition that always takes the dative case. 'Der Chef' (the boss, masculine noun) becomes 'dem Chef' in the dative case. This literally translates to 'with the boss'.

4

sprechen

'Sprechen' means 'to speak'. In this context, it refers to having a conversation. As a modal verb construction, 'sprechen' appears in its infinitive form at the end of the sentence.

5

bitte

'Bitte' means 'please'. It is crucial for politeness in German requests. Omitting it can make a request sound abrupt or demanding.

🗨In Conversation

A

Entschuldigen Sie, Frau Meier. Kann ich kurz mit dem Chef sprechen, bitte?

Excuse me, Ms. Meier. Can I speak briefly with the boss, please?

Ja, er hat gerade einen Moment Zeit. Gehen Sie ruhig rein.

Yes, he has a moment right now. Please go in.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Kann ich kurz mit der Chef sprechen?

    The dative case is required after 'mit', so 'der Chef' becomes 'dem Chef'.

  • Kann ich kurz mit dem Chef reden?

    'Sprechen' is generally preferred for formal or business conversations, while 'reden' can be more informal or imply a general chat.

  • Kann ich kurz mit dem Chef sprechen?

    Omitting 'bitte' makes the request sound less polite and more demanding, which can be perceived negatively in German-speaking cultures.

↔Alternatives

  • Könnte ich kurz mit dem Chef sprechen?

    Could I briefly speak with the boss?

  • Ich würde gerne kurz mit dem Chef sprechen.

    I would like to speak briefly with the boss.

  • Wäre es möglich, kurz mit dem Chef zu sprechen?

    Would it be possible to speak briefly with the boss?

de

Cultural Tip

In German-speaking workplaces, directness is often valued, but politeness (especially with superiors) is equally important. Using 'bitte' is essential. While 'Chef' is common, in very formal settings or larger companies, you might use their title and last name (e.g., 'Herr Müller' or 'Frau Schmidt'). Always use the formal 'Sie' when addressing your boss unless explicitly invited to use 'du'.