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German Phrase

Schau mal, ob es Sonderangebote gibt.

/ʃaʊ̯ mal ɔp ɛs ˈzɔndɐˌʔanɡəˌboːtə ɡɪpt/
Meaning"Check if there are any special offers."
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Meaning

This phrase is a casual and friendly way to suggest looking for discounts or sales. "Schau mal" is an informal imperative meaning "Have a look" or "Check it out." The second part, "ob es Sonderangebote gibt," translates to "if there are special offers." It's a very practical and common expression used in everyday shopping situations.

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When to use

You would typically use this phrase when you are shopping, either alone or with a companion, and want to see if there are any deals or promotions available. It's perfect for grocery stores, clothing shops, or even when browsing online. It implies a proactive search for a better price.

✦Grammar Breakdown

SchaumalobesSonderangebotegibt

1

Schau (schauen)

'Schau' is the informal imperative form of the verb 'schauen' (to look/watch). It is used to give a friendly command or suggestion to a single person you address informally (du).

2

mal

'Mal' is a common German modal particle that softens commands or suggestions, making them sound more friendly, casual, and less direct. It doesn't have a direct English translation but adds a nuance of 'just' or 'for a moment'.

3

ob

'Ob' is a subordinating conjunction meaning 'if' or 'whether.' It introduces a subordinate clause, which means the conjugated verb in that clause will move to the very end.

4

es gibt

'Es gibt' is an impersonal construction in German that means 'there is' or 'there are.' The verb 'gibt' (from 'geben' - to give) is always in the third person singular, regardless of whether the following noun is singular or plural.

5

Sonderangebote

'Sonderangebote' is a compound noun formed from 'Sonder-' (special) and 'Angebote' (offers). It is the plural form and refers specifically to special deals or promotions, not just any offer.

6

Verb at the end (subordinate clause)

In German, when a clause is introduced by a subordinating conjunction like 'ob,' the conjugated verb ('gibt' in this case) must be placed at the very end of that subordinate clause.

🗨In Conversation

A

Wir brauchen Milch und Brot.

We need milk and bread.

Okay, schau mal, ob es Sonderangebote gibt.

Okay, check if there are any special offers.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Schau mal, ob Sonderangebote gibt es.

    In a subordinate clause introduced by 'ob' (if/whether), the conjugated verb ('gibt') must always go to the very end of the clause.

  • Sieh mal, ob es Sonderangebote gibt.

    While 'sehen' means 'to see,' 'schauen' is more commonly used for actively 'looking' or 'checking' in this context, especially when paired with 'mal' for a casual suggestion.

↔Alternatives

  • Gibt es Sonderangebote?

    Are there special offers?

  • Hast du die Angebote gesehen?

    Did you see the offers?

  • Lass uns nach Rabatten suchen.

    Let's look for discounts.

de

Cultural Tip

Germans are generally quite price-conscious and appreciate a good deal. Looking for 'Sonderangebote' (special offers) or 'Schnäppchen' (bargains) is a common practice. Supermarkets often distribute weekly flyers ('Prospekte') detailing their current offers, and it's common for people to compare prices. Don't be shy to ask or look for deals!