German Phrase
Tschüss
Meaning
A casual way to say goodbye, equivalent to English 'bye' or 'see you'. It conveys a friendly, informal tone and is commonly used among friends, family, and peers.
When to use
Use Tschüss in everyday conversation with people you know well or in relaxed settings. Avoid it in formal business meetings, official letters, or when speaking to strangers you would address with 'Sie'.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Tschüss
Interjection (Abschiedsformel)
Tschüss is an informal interjection used to say goodbye. It is not appropriate in formal contexts or when addressing someone with the formal 'Sie'.
Pronunciation note
The initial 'Tsch' is pronounced like the English 'ch' in 'church', followed by a short front rounded vowel /ʏ/ and a sharp 's' sound.
🗨In Conversation
Tschüss!
Bye!
Tschüss, bis später!
Bye, see you later!
✕Common Mistakes
Tschüs
The correct spelling includes a double 's' – Tschüss.
Tschüss, Herr Müller
In formal written communication, use 'Mit freundlichen Grüßen' or 'Auf Wiedersehen' instead of Tschüss.
↔Alternatives
Auf Wiedersehen
Goodbye (more formal)
Ciao
Bye (borrowed from Italian, informal)
Bis später
See you later
Servus
Bye (used in southern Germany and Austria)
Cultural Tip
Tschüss is especially popular in northern Germany and among younger speakers. In southern regions, you might hear 'Servus' or 'Pfiat di' more often. Remember that tone matters: a cheerful tone signals friendliness, while a flat tone can sound dismissive.

