German Phrase
Wie ist die Notrufnummer?
Meaning
This question asks for the telephone number that should be dialed in an emergency. It is a direct, polite way to request the emergency contact number in German‑speaking countries.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are traveling, staying with locals, or need to confirm the correct emergency number in a new city or country. It works in both formal and informal contexts, but you’ll often hear it from tourists or newcomers.
✦Grammar Breakdown
WieistdieNotrufnummer?
Wie (question word)
‘Wie’ asks for a description or specification, similar to ‘how’ or ‘what’ in English.
ist (sein – 3rd person singular)
‘ist’ is the present‑tense form of the verb ‘sein’ (to be) used with third‑person singular subjects.
die (definite article)
‘die’ is the feminine singular definite article, matching the gender of ‘Notrufnummer’.
Notrufnummer (compound noun)
A compound of ‘Notruf’ (emergency call) + ‘Nummer’ (number); German often builds nouns this way.
🗨In Conversation
Wie ist die Notrufnummer?
What is the emergency number?
Die Notrufnummer ist 112.
The emergency number is 112.
✕Common Mistakes
Was ist die Notrufnummer?
‘Was’ asks for a thing, not a number; ‘Wie’ is the correct interrogative for asking a number or specification.
Wie ist die Notruf?
Leaving out ‘Nummer’ makes the phrase incomplete; you need the full noun ‘Notrufnummer’.
↔Alternatives
Wie lautet die Notrufnummer?
How does the emergency number read?
Was ist die Notrufnummer?
What is the emergency number?
Können Sie mir die Notrufnummer nennen?
Can you tell me the emergency number?
Cultural Tip
In Germany, Austria and most EU countries the universal emergency number is 112, which works for fire, ambulance and rescue services. Police can also be reached directly at 110. The number works from any phone, even without a SIM card. When you call, stay calm, speak clearly, and give your exact location. Using a polite tone (e.g., ‘Entschuldigung, …’) is appreciated, especially with strangers.