Cancelling or Changing an Appointment in German

My name is John Doe, and I want to help you with a very common situation – needing to change or cancel a meeting or appointment in German. It can seem tricky at first, but it’s actually quite straightforward.

Why it’s Important

Learning how to do this politely is important in German culture. Germans value punctuality and respecting other people’s time. It’s much better to let someone know if you can’t make it than to just not show up.

Saying You Can’t Come

The most basic way to say you can’t make it is:

• “Es tut mir leid, aber ich kann nicht kommen.” (It’s sorry, but I cannot come.)

• Example: “Es tut mir leid, aber ich kann nicht kommen. Ich habe einen anderen Termin.” (It’s sorry, but I cannot come. I have another appointment.)

Asking to Move an Appointment

If you need to move the appointment, here’s how to ask:

• “Könnten wir unseren Termin verschieben?” (Could we reschedule our appointment?)
• “Wann hätten Sie Zeit für einen neuen Termin?” (When would you have time for a new appointment?)

• Example: “Könnten wir unseren Termin am Dienstag verschieben? Wann hätten Sie Zeit für einen neuen Termin?” (Could we reschedule our appointment on Tuesday? When would you have time for a new appointment?)

Offering Alternatives

It’s helpful to offer times that you are available.

• “Ich wäre am [Tag] um [Uhrzeit] verfügbar.” (I would be available on [Day] at [Time].)

• Example: “Ich wäre am Donnerstag um 14 Uhr verfügbar.” (I would be available on Thursday at 2 PM.)

Responding to a Change

If someone offers a new time, you respond with:

• “Das passt mir gut.” (That suits me well.)
• “Das ist in Ordnung.” (That is okay.)

• Example: “Das passt mir gut. Vielen Dank!” (That suits me well. Thank you very much!)

Short Phrases to Know

• “Ich habe einen Termin.” (I have an appointment.)
• “Ich muss den Termin absagen.” (I must cancel the appointment.)
• “Bitte bestätigen Sie den neuen Termin.” (Please confirm the new appointment.)

My name is Mary Carry and I hope this helps you feel more confident about communicating about appointments in German. Viel Erfolg! (Good luck!)

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