German culture: The proper usage of "Du" and "Sie" Most non-native speakers in Germany are confused about how to use "Du" and "Sie". Sometimes they don`t even know about their problem because they were taught that "Sie" is fine with everyone. They were told that it`s respectful and polite. That`s true, it is respectful but actually sometimes it seems very reserved and rude to other people. So here is a simple guide for people who are 20-35 years old (it`s kind of a generation thing) : People your age (in your university class, in a disco, friends for example) : "Du" People your age who introduce themselves with their surname: "Sie" Strangers on the internet: "Du" (exception: on job portals) Anyone who introduces themselves with their first name: "Du" People who are older than 50 (except they introduce themselves with their first name): "Sie" in a job interview: "Sie" Flirting: "Du" !!!!!!!!!! ;D So in summary: If you`re in a formal relationship with a person you can say „Sie“ to them and in any other situation: „Du“ But the best way is to ask, like: "Kann ich "Du" oder "Sie" sagen?" This is perfectly polite and respectful for everyone! Thanks for reading! If you have any questions please ask me!