Machen lassen
Which of the following sentences is NOT a correct way to translate “Ich lasse mir die Haare schneiden”?
- I’m going to have my hair cut.
- I’m going to let my hair cut.
- I’m going to get my hair cut.
If you think sentence b, “I’m going to let my hair cut,” is not correct, you are right! This is another area where German and English are quite different. To show that someone else will be doing something for you, you can either say that you will have something done or that you will get something done, so you can have your hair* cut or get your hair* cut.
Here are a few more example sentences for you:
- We’re going to have new windows put in this year.
- I need to get these figures checked before I publish this article. I’m not sure they are 100% correct.
- We’re going to have the annual report printed next week.
- Don’t forget to get your passport renewed before our big meeting in Japan in June.
- Could you please call someone about the photocopier? We need to have it fixed by Friday at the very latest.
Now try this quiz: