mal
just, for a moment (softens commands and requests) · once, one time (in expressions like 'noch mal')
A small word that softens commands, requests, and statements, making them sound friendlier and more casual. It often has no direct English translation but adds a tone of 'just' or 'for a moment'.
What mal means
- just, for a moment (softens commands and requests) — Used in imperative sentences to make them sound less harsh and more casual.
- once, one time (in expressions like 'noch mal') — In phrases like 'noch mal' (again) or 'erst mal' (first of all).
Heard in real German videos
Lines where mal was actually spoken, from German videos watched with DeutschChat.
- Also jetzt hör mal gut zu.So now listen carefully.
- Sieh dir das mal an.Take a look at this.
Example sentences
- Komm mal her.Come here (for a moment).
- Hör mal zu.Listen (for a second).
- Das ist mal was anderes.That's something different for once.
- Ich muss mal kurz weg.I have to go away for a moment.
Common phrases
- noch malagain, once more
- erst malfirst of all, for now
- schau mallook, take a look
- hör mallisten, hey
- sag malsay, tell me
The mistake English speakers make
English speakers often omit 'mal' in commands, making them sound too direct or rude. Add 'mal' to soften requests: 'Komm her' → 'Komm mal her'.
Don’t confuse it with
- einmal — 'Einmal' means 'once' or 'one time' and is more literal, while 'mal' is often just a softener without a specific time meaning.
Questions learners ask
What does 'mal' mean in German?
'Mal' is a particle that softens commands and requests, making them sound friendlier. It can also mean 'once' or 'one time' in phrases like 'noch mal' (again).
How do you use 'mal' in a sentence?
Place 'mal' after the verb in commands (e.g., 'Komm mal her') or after the finite verb in statements (e.g., 'Ich muss mal los'). It adds a casual, friendly tone.
Is 'mal' the same as 'einmal'?
Not exactly. 'Einmal' means 'once' or 'one time' and is more literal. 'Mal' is often just a softener without a specific time meaning, though it can be short for 'einmal' in some contexts.