verlobt sein

Using this phrase is very straightforward. You combine the subject with the verb sein (to be) and the word verlobt. If you want to say who you are engaged to, use the preposition mit. For example: Ich bin mit Sarah verlobt. It works just like an adjective. You can use it for yourself or to describe others.

Use this when sharing your big news with friends. It is perfect for a social media announcement. You might also use it in a semi-formal setting. For instance, when introducing your partner to a boss. It clarifies that the relationship is very serious. It is also common during wedding planning conversations. You will hear it at family gatherings often.

Be careful not to use this for business. In English, you might have a "business engagement." In German, that is a Termin or Verabredung. Never use verlobt for a meeting or an appointment. Also, do not use it for casual dating. If you are just "seeing someone," use zusammen sein. verlobt implies a ring or a formal promise.

In Germany, the engagement ring is traditionally worn on the left hand. After the wedding, many Germans move the ring to the right hand. Some even buy a new wedding band for the right hand. Engagements in Germany can last a long time. It is not unusual to be verlobt for two or three years. It is seen as a time to save money and plan carefully.

You will often hear the reflexive verb sich verloben. This describes the actual act of getting engaged. For example: Wir haben uns gestern verlobt. If you want to talk about the event itself, use die Verlobung. Your partner becomes mein Verlobter (male) or meine Verlobte (female). These terms sound a bit fancy but are very common.