German Phrase
Ruf sofort die Rettungsdienste an.
Meaning
This is an urgent command meaning ‘Call the emergency services immediately.’ It uses the informal singular imperative, making it suitable for a quick, direct instruction in a crisis.
When to use
Use this phrase when you need to tell someone to call an ambulance, fire brigade, or other emergency responders right away – for example after a serious accident, a sudden illness, or a fire.
✦Grammar Breakdown
RufsofortdieRettungsdienstean
Imperative (2nd person singular)
‘Ruf’ is the imperative form of ‘rufen’ used when speaking to one person informally.
Separable verb ‘anrufen’
‘anrufen’ splits in the imperative: the prefix ‘an’ moves to the end of the clause.
Adverb placement
‘sofort’ (immediately) is placed directly after the verb for emphasis.
Accusative object
‘die Rettungsdienste’ is a plural accusative noun phrase that receives the call.
🗨In Conversation
Ruf sofort die Rettungsdienste an.
Call the emergency services immediately.
Ich rufe jetzt an.
I’m calling right now.
✕Common Mistakes
Ruf sofort die Rettungsdienste.
Missing the separable prefix ‘an’; you must say ‘anrufen’ to mean ‘call.’
Ruf sofort die Rettungsdienst an.
‘Rettungsdienst’ is singular; if you keep the plural ‘die Rettungsdienste,’ the article must match.
Rufen sie sofort die Rettungsdienste an.
If you use the formal ‘Sie,’ the verb must be ‘Rufen Sie’ (capitalized) – the mistake is often forgetting the capital ‘R.’
↔Alternatives
Ruf sofort den Rettungsdienst an.
Call the ambulance service immediately.
Rufen Sie sofort die Rettungsdienste an.
Call the emergency services immediately. (formal)
Ruf sofort den Notruf an.
Call the emergency number right away.
Cultural Tip
In Germany, Austria and Switzerland the universal emergency number is 112. You can dial it for medical emergencies, fire, or police. When you’re not sure who you’re speaking to, switch to the formal ‘Rufen Sie … an.’ Also, keep the call brief: state the emergency, your location, and any vital details.