German A2Chapter 19 of 28

Formal Emails and Complaints

Write clear, polite messages when something goes wrong.

Learn how to write formal German emails and complaints for landlords, offices, services, shops, and course providers. You will practise explaining a problem, giving important details, asking for a solution, setting a polite deadline, and keeping the right tone for B1 exams and real life in Germany.

75 minLevel: A2

What this chapter covers

  • I can structure a formal German email with greeting, reason, details, request, and closing.
  • I can describe a problem politely and clearly.
  • I can ask for a solution, appointment, repair, refund, or reply.
  • I can use polite phrases with Konjunktiv II in formal writing.
  • I can write a B1-style complaint email with enough detail and appropriate tone.

What you will practise in the app

The full chapter includes 8 interactive exercises covering these formats:

  • Multiple choice questions
  • Vocabulary matching
  • Fill-in-the-blank sentences
  • Listening comprehension
  • True or false statements
  • Translation practice

Vocabulary: Formal Emails and Complaints

A small sample from this chapter's vocabulary set.

die die Beschwerdecomplaint
die die Rechnunginvoice/bill
der der Vertragcontract
der der Kundendienstcustomer service
der der Vermieterlandlord

This is only a small sample. The full vocabulary set — with audio, example sentences, and grammar details — is available in the free app.

Why this matters in Germany

This chapter helps you build German you can use in everyday situations in Germany — from understanding simple sentences to handling basic conversations, messages, appointments, study, work, and daily life. Practical language learned in context is easier to remember and use when it matters.

Practise the full chapter for free

Create a free account to access the full explanation, vocabulary set, interactive exercises, audio and listening practice where available, and progress tracking.

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