Ich rufe dich an
The English phrase "I am calling you" is translated into German as Ich rufe dich an.
This phrase is used to tell someone that you are contacting them by telephone.
Which one should you use?
Ich rufe dich an is the informal version of the phrase, whereas Ich rufe Sie an is the formal version. You might use the phrase Ich nehme mir die Freiheit, Sie anzurufen, which means "I take the liberty to call you."
How does it change in a sentence?
In the form Ich rufe dich an, the word dich is an accusative pronoun because the verb anrufen requires a direct object. Similarly, the formal version uses the accusative pronoun Sie instead of dich.
Did you know?
- In German, the verb anrufen is conceptually linked to 'calling upon' a deity or a higher power, not just using a telephone.
- The phrase Ich rufe dich an can be used to mean both 'I am calling you right now' and 'I will call you later', as German has no separate continuous tense.
- If you use Ich rufe dich without the an, a German speaker will likely think you are shouting across a room or calling a dog.
Examples in context
- Ich rufe Sie an, um über unsere bevorstehende Zusammenarbeit zu sprechen.I am calling you to discuss our upcoming collaboration.
- Ich rufe dich an, um zu fragen, ob du heute Abend Zeit hast.I am calling you to ask if you are free tonight.
- Ich rufe dich an, sobald ich zu Hause bin.I am calling you as soon as I am home.
Example conversation
Laura is telling Lukas she will call him soon.
- LauraIch rufe dich an, Lukas.I am calling you, Lukas.
- LukasWarum rufst du mich an?Why are you calling me?
- LauraIch habe eine wichtige Frage.I have an important question.
- LukasOkay, ich warte auf deinen Anruf.Okay, I am waiting for your call.
