Guten Appetit
Enjoy your meal / Bon appétit
Pronunciation
/ˌɡuːtn̩ ʔapeˈtiːt/
Cultural Note
It is considered polite in Germany to say 'Guten Appetit' before everyone starts eating, similar to the French 'Bon appétit.' Starting to eat before this phrase is spoken — especially when dining with others — is considered rude. The proper response is 'Danke, gleichfalls!' (Thanks, likewise!).
📝 Example Sentences
Das Essen ist fertig — Guten Appetit!
The food is ready — Enjoy your meal!
Guten Appetit! — Danke, Ihnen auch!
Enjoy your meal! — Thank you, you too!
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