Supposedly, all is fair in love and war, and language can be an instrument for both. But chances are pretty good that you’ll have to defend your words a lot less if you choose to lift people up (versus choosing violence). It might be more entertaining to learn how to insult someone, but it’s probably more useful to know how to deliver a few compliments in German.
Reason being? There are so many social situations — meeting a new acquaintance, introducing yourself to a significant other’s parents for the first time — that go more smoothly when pleasantries are involved. Besides, sometimes you just really want to tell someone how cool their hair is.
Here are a few typical compliments in German you can use next time you want to make friends (or make someone’s day).
Compliments In German
You are sweet! — Du bist süß!
You have beautiful eyes. — Du hast schöne Augen.
You are very nice. — Du bist sehr sympathisch.
I love your smile, it’s so charming. — Ich liebe dein Lächeln, es ist so charmant.
I like your new haircut. — Deine neue Frisur gefällt mir.
I like this color, it really suits you! — Ich mag diese Farbe, sie steht dir wirklich gut!
I knew you would succeed! — Ich wusste, dass du das schaffst!
I was sure you would pass the exam. — Ich war mir sicher, dass du die Prüfung bestehen würdest.
That’s what I call smart! — Das nenne ich schlau!
You are a great cook! — Du kannst wirklich gut kochen!
The meal was delicious. The roast was excellent. — Das Essen war sehr gut. Der Braten war exzellent.
You outdid yourself. — Du hast dich selbst übertroffen.
You did a great job. — Du hast eine großartige Arbeit gemacht.
I love your sense of humor! — Ich mag deinen Humor!
I appreciate your honesty. — Ich schätze deine Ehrlichkeit.
You are so considerate! — Du bist so aufmerksam!
You dance well! — Du tanzt gut!
People can always count on you! You are reliable. — Auf dich kann man immer zählen! Du bist zuverlässig.
You look fantastic! — Du siehst gut aus!
I mean it as a compliment! — Das sollte ein Kompliment sein!