Videoanruf
masculine
The English phrase video call is translated into German as Videoanruf.
Videoanruf is a commonly used term for a video call in German. In a formal context, one einen Videoanruf tätigen (performs/makes) a Videoanruf rather than just 'making' it.
Meaning: kind of telephone call accompanied by video imagery (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
Videoanruf is a compound noun consisting of Video (video) and Anruf (call/phone call).
How does it change in a sentence?
Because Videoanruf is a masculine noun, it takes the accusative ending -en when it is the direct object of a sentence, appearing as den Videoanruf.
Did you know?
- In Germany, calling someone via video without a prior text or chat message to ask 'Are you available?' is often seen as an intrusive breach of privacy.
- The noun Anruf comes from the verb anrufen, which literally means 'to call to' someone, reflecting the physical act of shouting to get someone's attention.
- In a professional setting, you might hear the term Videokonferenz (video conference) instead of Videoanruf, even if there are only two people participating.
Examples in context
- Für unser nächstes Meeting schlage ich eine Videotelefonie vor, um die Reisekosten zu sparen.For our next meeting, I suggest a video call to save travel expenses.
- Der Videoanruf dauert sehr lange.The video call lasts a very long time.
- Ich habe einen wichtigen Videoanruf.I have an important video call.
- Wir starten den Videoanruf jetzt.We are starting the video call now.
Example conversation
Felix and Sarah are discussing their work schedules.
- FelixHast du heute Zeit für einen Videoanruf?Do you have time for a video call today?
- SarahJa, ich kann um drei Uhr.Yes, I can at three o'clock.
- FelixPerfekt, dann machen wir einen Videoanruf.Perfect, then we will do a video call.
- SarahAlles klar, bis dann, Felix.All right, see you then, Felix.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “video call” translations and entries Videoanruf, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
