jemanden ansprechen
to approach someone, to start talking to someone
Intermediate Verb
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Pronunciation
/ˈjeːmandən ˈanʃpʁɛçn̩/
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Cultural Note
In Germany, approaching strangers (jemanden ansprechen) is culturally acceptable in social settings like bars, cafés, or events, but not typically on the street or public transport. Germans value personal space and may find cold approaches intrusive in everyday settings.
📝 Example Sentences
Ich möchte sie gerne ansprechen, aber ich bin zu schüchtern.
I'd like to approach her, but I'm too shy.
Er hat mich in der Bar angesprochen.
He came up to me at the bar.
Trau dich, sie anzusprechen!
Go ahead and talk to her!