telc b1 speaking phrases: 30 essential examples for the exam

The telc B1 speaking exam expects you to use a set of functional phrases for everyday topics; below you will find the most useful telc b1 speaking phrases together with clear English translations, usage tips and a quick practice routine you can start right now.

Which telc B1 speaking phrases should I know for the exam?

These 30 phrases cover the three parts of the speaking test: personal introduction, describing a picture, and discussing a problem or solution. Memorising them gives you a solid toolbox.

• Ich komme aus ... (I come from ...)
• Ich wohne seit ... in ... (I have been living ... in ...)
• In meiner Freizeit ... (In my free time ...)
• Meiner Meinung nach ... (In my opinion ...)
• Ich finde, dass ... (I think that ...)
• Könnten Sie das bitte wiederholen? (Could you please repeat that?)
• Wie würden Sie das lösen? (How would you solve that?)
• Ein Beispiel dafür ist ... (An example of that is ...)
• Ich stimme zu / Ich stimme nicht zu (I agree / I disagree)
• Entschuldigung, ich habe das nicht verstanden. (Sorry, I didn't understand that.)

For a broader list of everyday expressions, check out our free phrase database – it contains hundreds of ready‑to‑use sentences you can adapt to the exam.

How can I use these phrases naturally in conversation?

Knowing a phrase is not enough; you must fit it into the flow of a dialogue. Pay attention to three aspects: (1) the correct case after prepositions, (2) appropriate connectors, and (3) intonation that signals a question or statement.

Example: Ich habe letzte Woche ein neues Hobby angefangen, und zwar Fotografie. (I started a new hobby last week, namely photography.) Notice the connector und zwar that introduces a clarification.

Another useful pattern is the conditional: Wenn ich mehr Zeit hätte, würde ich öfter ins Fitnessstudio gehen. (If I had more time, I would go to the gym more often.) This shows you can talk about hypothetical situations, a common task in part three of the test.

Practice the rhythm with our free listen‑and‑repeat tool – it lets you hear native speakers and record your own version for instant feedback.

What are the common mistakes to avoid with telc B1 speaking phrases?

Even advanced learners slip into errors that lower their score. Here are the top three pitfalls and how to fix them.

1. Wrong case after prepositions. After mit you need dative: Ich spreche mit dem Lehrer. (I speak with the teacher.)
2. Over‑using filler words. Phrases like äh or so are fine sparingly, but too many interrupt fluency. Replace them with short pauses.
3. Literal translations. Directly translating English structures often sounds stiff. Instead of I am agree, say Ich stimme zu.

Our printable practice worksheets include a checklist you can tick while you rehearse each phrase.

Practical 3‑step routine to master the phrases today

Follow this short, repeatable routine every day for a week and you will notice a measurable improvement.

1. Read & Highlight. Open the list above, read each German sentence aloud, and highlight the key phrase you want to remember.
2. Shadow & Record. Use the repeat tool to shadow the native audio, then record yourself saying the same sentence. Compare your recording with the original and note any pronunciation gaps.
3. Use in Context. Write a short paragraph (3‑4 sentences) that incorporates at least three of the highlighted phrases. Submit it in the prompt tool for a gentle correction and a natural‑sounding alternative.

Consistency is key: 10 minutes a day is enough to move the phrases from short‑term to long‑term memory.

How to practise these phrases with German Buddy

German Buddy lets you turn the list into an interactive speaking session. In Conversation mode you can role‑play a picture‑description task, and the app will suggest the exact phrase you need at the right moment. Start with the free 7‑day unlimited trial, then enjoy a daily allowance that never runs out. start practising free.

FAQ

What is the best way to memorize telc b1 speaking phrases?

Combine spaced repetition with active usage: review the phrase, say it aloud, and immediately write a short dialogue that includes it. The free phrase list can be imported into any flashcard app for spaced repetition.

How many phrases should I know for the telc B1 speaking exam?

There is no strict number, but mastering around 30–40 versatile phrases gives you enough flexibility to handle most topics while keeping your speech natural.

Can I use the same phrases for the Goethe B1 speaking exam?

Yes, the two exams share many functional expressions. However, the Goethe exam may ask for more formal language, so adapt the tone accordingly – for example, replace Ich finde with Meiner Ansicht nach.

How often should I practice speaking before the exam?

Daily short sessions (10‑15 minutes) are more effective than occasional long ones. Use German Buddy’s daily practice allowance to keep the habit consistent and track your progress over time.