German Phrase
Freut mich!
Meaning
Literally “It pleases me,” this short exclamation is the German equivalent of “Nice to meet you” or “Glad to meet you.” It is used right after an introduction or when you are introduced to someone, expressing a polite, friendly reaction.
When to use
Use it right after someone says “Ich bin …” or “Darf ich vorstellen …”. It works in both formal and informal settings, though in very formal contexts you might prefer the longer “Es freut mich, Sie kennenzulernen.”
✦Grammar Breakdown
Freutmich
Verb‑Subject Inversion
In this idiom the verb “freuen” appears in the 3rd‑person singular (freut) and the subject is the impersonal “es,” which is omitted.
Pronoun “mich”
“Mich” is the accusative form of “ich,” acting as the object of the omitted “es” (es freut mich).
Ellipsis
The full sentence is “Es freut mich (sehr), Sie kennenzulernen.” The “es” and the infinitive clause are commonly dropped in casual speech.
🗨In Conversation
Hallo, ich bin Anna.
Hello, I’m Anna.
Freut mich!
Nice to meet you!
✕Common Mistakes
Freut mich sehr!
Adding “sehr” is grammatically fine but sounds overly formal for a simple greeting; native speakers usually keep it short.
Freut mich dich.
Missing the infinitive “kennenzulernen” makes the sentence incomplete; you need a verb or a preposition.
Freut mich Sie.
When using the formal “Sie,” you must include the verb: “Es freut mich, Sie kennenzulernen.”
↔Alternatives
Sehr erfreut!
Very pleased (to meet you).
Es freut mich, Sie kennenzulernen.
I’m pleased to meet you (formal).
Freut mich, dich kennenzulernen.
Nice to meet you (informal).
Cultural Tip
In German-speaking countries a firm handshake often accompanies “Freut mich!” In Austria and southern Germany you may also add a friendly “Grüß Gott” before the greeting. Avoid over‑enthusiastic tones; a calm, sincere delivery sounds most natural.