Common English Mistakes in Government Memos by German Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native German speakers from Germany when writing a Government Memo in English.

Mistake Example #1

Incorrect word order in subordinate clauses

To: All Department Heads Subject: Implementation of New Policy In response to recent developments, it is necessary that we implementthe new policyimplement by the end of the month. It is important, thatfor all departments to review their proceduresreview to ensure compliance. Should any questions arise, please contact the policy team, who will beavailable will be to assist.

Text corrected by:
Jennifer, Detroit, Michigan USA

"Good job overall! It just needed some changes to the word order."

To: All Department Heads Subject: Implementation of New Policy In response to recent developments, it is necessary that we implement the new policy by the end of the month. It is important for all departments to review their procedures to ensure compliance. Should any questions arise, please contact the policy team, who will be available to assist.

To: All Department Heads Subject: Implementation of New Policy In response to recent developments, it is necessary that we the new policy implement by the end of the month. It is important, that all departments their procedures review to ensure compliance. Should any questions arise, please contact the policy team, who available will be to assist.

Mistake Example #2

Overuse of passive voice

To: All Department Heads Subject: Implementation of New Policy It iPlease requviested thatw the new policy guidelinesare reviewed by all department heads. The changes werWe discussedthe changes in the last meeting, andit was decided tho startthe implementation will be started fromnext month. ItWe is ensuareprovidthating all necessary resources. Pleasereporovided, andt any issuesare to be reported immediately.

Text corrected by:
Camille, Maryland, USA

"Try to minimize the use of passive voice. Active voice is more direct, especially for instructions. "

To: All Department Heads Subject: Implementation of New Policy Please review the new policy guidelines. We discussed the changes in the last meeting and decided to start implementation next month. We are providing all necessary resources. Please report any issues immediately.

To: All Department Heads Subject: Implementation of New Policy It is requested that the new policy guidelines are reviewed by all department heads. The changes were discussed in the last meeting, and it was decided that the implementation will be started from next month. It is ensured that all necessary resources are provided, and any issues are to be reported immediately.

Mistake Example #3

Capitalizing all nouns (following German grammar rules)

To: All Department Heads Subject: Implementation of New Policy The Ggovernment has decided to introduce a new Ppolicy regarding the Uuse of Ppublic Rresources. It is important that all Ddepartments comply with the Gguidelines set forth in the Ddocument provided by the Mministry. Please ensure that all Sstaff Mmembers are informed aboutf the Cchanges and that the necessary Mmeasures are taken to effectivelyimplement the Ppolicyeffectively.

Text corrected by:
Vince, United States

"Just a few minor tweaks to improve flow and remove capital letters from common nouns :) Nice work! "

To: All Department Heads Subject: Implementation of New Policy The government has decided to introduce a new policy regarding the use of public resources. It is important that all departments comply with the guidelines set forth in the document provided by the ministry. Please ensure that all staff members are informed of the changes and that the necessary measures are taken to effectively implement the policy.

To: All Department Heads Subject: Implementation of New Policy The Government has decided to introduce a new Policy regarding the Use of Public Resources. It is important that all Departments comply with the Guidelines set forth in the Document provided by the Ministry. Please ensure that all Staff Members are informed about the Changes and that the necessary Measures are taken to implement the Policy effectively.