German Phrase
Ruf mich bitte unter 555-1234 zurück.
Meaning
This sentence is a polite request asking the listener to call you back at the telephone number 555‑1234. It combines an informal imperative with the courtesy word ‘bitte’ and the preposition ‘unter’ that introduces the phone number.
When to use
Use it after you missed a call, when you leave a voicemail, or when you want to give someone your number in a casual conversation. It works best with friends, colleagues you address with ‘du’, or anyone you have an informal relationship with.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Rufmichbitteunter555-1234zurück
Imperative (Ruf)
‘Ruf’ is the du‑imperative of the verb ‘rufen’ (to call). It is used for informal commands.
Accusative pronoun (mich)
‘mich’ is the accusative form of the reflexive pronoun ‘ich’, required because ‘rufen’ takes a direct object.
Polite particle (bitte)
‘bitte’ softens the command, turning it into a polite request.
Preposition ‘unter’ with phone numbers
In German you say ‘unter’ + the number to indicate the line on which you can be reached.
Adverb ‘zurück’
‘zurück’ means ‘back’ and completes the meaning ‘call back’. It follows the number in everyday speech.
🗨In Conversation
Entschuldigung, ich habe Sie gerade nicht erreicht.
Sorry, I just missed you.
Ruf mich bitte unter 555-1234 zurück.
Please call me back at 555‑1234.
✕Common Mistakes
Ruf mich bitte bei 555-1234 zurück.
‘bei’ is used for locations, not for phone numbers. Use ‘unter’ instead.
Ruf mich bitte unter 555-1234 zurückrufen.
‘zurückrufen’ is a verb; you cannot place it after the number in this construction.
Rufen Sie mich bitte zurück unter 555-1234.
The word order sounds awkward; the preposition phrase should come before ‘zurück’.
↔Alternatives
Bitte rufen Sie mich unter 555-1234 zurück.
Please call me back at 555‑1234. (formal)
Ruf mich zurück, meine Nummer ist 555-1234.
Call me back, my number is 555‑1234.
Melde dich bitte unter 555-1234 bei mir.
Please get in touch with me at 555‑1234.
Cultural Tip
In German‑speaking countries the preposition ‘unter’ is the standard way to introduce a phone number when you give it verbally. Adding ‘bitte’ makes the request sound courteous, which is especially important in professional contexts. If you need a formal tone, switch the imperative to the Sie‑form: ‘Rufen Sie mich bitte … zurück.’