German Phrase
Wie immer.
Meaning
‘Wie immer’ translates to ‘as always’ in English. It is used to point out that something is happening in the same way it usually does, often to emphasize routine or to express a slight resignation.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to comment on a repeated situation, confirm that nothing has changed, or react to a predictable outcome. It works in both formal and informal settings, but tone can make it sound either neutral or mildly sarcastic.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Wieimmer
Wie (as)
‘Wie’ is a comparative conjunction meaning ‘as’ or ‘like’, used to compare actions or states.
immer (always)
‘immer’ is an adverb meaning ‘always’; when combined with ‘wie’, it forms the set phrase ‘wie immer’ meaning ‘as always’.
🗨In Conversation
Du bist wieder zu spät, wie immer.
You're late again, as always.
Entschuldigung, der Zug hatte Verspätung – wie immer.
Sorry, the train was delayed – as always.
✕Common Mistakes
Ich komme immer.
‘immer’ alone means ‘always’; you need ‘wie immer’ to convey ‘as always’. Using just ‘immer’ changes the meaning.
Wie immer?
Adding a question mark turns the phrase into a question, which is rarely intended. Use a statement unless you really mean to ask ‘as always?’
↔Alternatives
Wie üblich.
As usual.
Wie gewohnt.
As expected / as usual.
Wie immer wieder.
Again and again, as always.
Cultural Tip
German speakers value precision, so ‘wie immer’ is a concise way to signal that a pattern repeats. In casual conversation it can carry a hint of sarcasm, especially if the speaker is mildly annoyed. In more formal contexts, you might prefer ‘wie üblich’ to keep the tone neutral.