Decoding Behördensprache: A Guide for English Speakers

Hello, my name is John Doe, and I’m a German language tutor. I often work with people learning German, and one of the biggest challenges they face is understanding ‘Behördensprache’ – what we often jokingly call “official German.” It can be incredibly confusing!

Essentially, ‘Behördensprache’ is the specific way that government agencies, public institutions, and official organizations communicate. It’s not the everyday German you hear on the street. It’s a highly structured, precise style built around legal terminology and rules.

What Makes It Different?

Several key features distinguish ‘Behördensprache’:

• Long, Complex Sentences: German sentences in official contexts can be incredibly long, with multiple subordinate clauses. This isn’t about being dramatic; it’s about covering every detail and possibility.
• Example: “In Bezug auf die Erbringung der Dienstleistung, unter Berücksichtigung der geltenden Rechtsvorschriften und unter Vorbehalt der Sachverhaltsfeststellung, wird ein Antrag auf Ausfuhr einer Genehmigung eingereicht.” (Regarding the provision of the service, taking into account the applicable legal regulations and subject to the verification of the facts, an application for the issuance of a permit will be submitted.)

• Formal Pronouns: You’ll encounter a lot of formal pronouns – “Sie” (you – formal) instead of “du.” Always use “Sie” when addressing someone in an official setting.
• Example: “Sie sind aufgefordert, die erforderlichen Unterlagen einzureichen.” (You are required to submit the necessary documents.)

• Precise Legal Terminology: Words have very specific legal meanings. Don’t assume a word has the same meaning as in everyday conversation.

• Passive Voice: The passive voice is heavily used, often to avoid assigning responsibility.
• Example: “Die Entscheidung wird von der Behörde getroffen.” (The decision will be made by the authority.)

Practical Usage – Dealing with a Request

Let’s say you need to request information from the Finanzamt (Tax Office). Here’s what you might encounter:

“Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren,

hiermit beantragen wir einen Antrag auf Ausfertigung von Unterlagen im Zusammenhang mit unserer Steuererklärung für das Jahr 2023. Wir bitten um die Zusendung der Unterlagen in Papierform an die oben genannte Adresse.

Mit freundlichen Grüßen,

John Doe”

Translation: “Dear Sir or Madam, we hereby submit an application for the reproduction of documents related to our tax return for the year 2023. We request the sending of the documents in paper form to the address above. Sincerely, John Doe.”

Notice how formal it is.

Tips for Understanding

• Slow Down: Don’t try to process everything immediately.
• Focus on Keywords: Identify the key terms relating to your request.
• Ask for Clarification: It’s perfectly acceptable (and often necessary) to ask for clarification, using polite phrases like: “Könnten Sie das bitte wiederholen?” (Could you please repeat that?) or “Könnten Sie das bitte erklären?” (Could you please explain that?)

I am Mary Carry, and I hope this introduction helps you navigate the world of ‘Behördensprache’. It’s challenging, but with patience and a focused approach, you’ll be able to understand and communicate effectively.

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