Many foreigners are surprised by how often Germans explain the actual reason behind a decision. In many cultures, explanations are softened. People may provide a socially comfortable answer. They may avoid discussing the real cause. They may choose diplomacy over transparency. German communication often follows a different principle. Many German speakers prefer explaining the actual […]
Tymur LevitinMany people who speak with Germans notice the same thing sooner or later: German speakers often expect you to say exactly what you mean. Hints, vague suggestions, indirect signals, or “maybe you understand what I mean” often do not work as well as they do in other cultures. In German communication, there is often a […]
Tymur LevitinIf you have ever had a conversation with a German speaker, you may have noticed something interesting. At some point, the discussion suddenly becomes very clear. After several arguments, examples, and explanations, someone says: Also… or Zusammenfassend… and then gives a short, direct conclusion. For many learners, this can feel unusually decisive. But in German […]
Tymur Levitin
