Deutsch · A2 · verb · 4 minutes
Anrufen: present tense
Separate an- in a main clause and keep it attached in infinitives.
Understand the choice
The prefix an closes a main clause while the finite stem ruf- occupies second position. With a modal or zu-infinitive structure, the pieces recombine in different ways.
Core rule: Anrufen is separable and takes a direct accusative person, without a preposition.
Notice it in context
Ich rufe meine Mutter jeden Sonntag an.
I call my mother every Sunday.
Rufe is finite in second position; Mutter is direct object; an closes the clause.
Rufst du den Arzt heute an?
Are you calling the doctor today?
Rufst begins the question and an stays final.
Wir müssen die Rezeption anrufen.
We have to call reception.
After modal müssen, the infinitive anrufen remains joined at the end.
What to remember
- The perfect is ich habe angerufen, with ge inserted between prefix and stem.
- Jemanden anrufen takes accusative; mit jemandem telefonieren takes mit + dative.
Common trap: Do not say ich rufe zu meiner Mutter an. Anrufen takes the person directly.