What does “Sprachanker” mean in German?

A listener says they understand colleagues but think too long before speaking in meetings, so the moment passes. Klaus’s tip: “Bereite dir kleine Sätze vor – sogenannte Sprachanker.” A Sprachanker is a tiny sentence you prepare in advance, like “Darf ich etwas dazu sagen?” or “Ich habe eine Idee.” It gives you an easy first line so you start talking before the fear takes over. Keep a few ready and use one when you need it.

Spoken in the clip: “Bereite dir kleine Sätze vor – sogenannte Sprachanker.” (“Prepare small sentences for yourself – so-called speaking anchors.”) Sprachanker joins “Sprache” (language/speech) and “Anker” (anchor): a short phrase that anchors you so you can start speaking instead of freezing. In the clip Klaus calls them a “Werkzeugkasten” — a toolbox you reach into. Examples: - “Mein Sprachanker für Meetings ist: Darf ich etwas dazu sagen?” — My go-to opener for meetings is: May I add something? - “Leg dir ein paar Sprachanker zurecht, bevor du anrufst.” — Get a few ready-made phrases set before you call. Usage notes: It’s a coaching and learning word, not everyday small talk — you’ll mostly hear it from teachers or in language tips. The phrases themselves (“Ich habe eine Idee”, “Darf ich etwas dazu sagen?”) are normal, polite, and usable anywhere.