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German Phrase

Bin in einer Stunde wieder da.

/bɪn ɪn ˈaɪ̯nɐ ˈʃtʊndə ˈviːdɐ daː/
Meaning"I'll be back in an hour."
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Meaning

This phrase is a common, shortened way to say 'Ich bin in einer Stunde wieder da.' It communicates that you are leaving but will return after approximately sixty minutes. The omission of the subject 'Ich' makes it sound more casual and immediate.

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When to use

Use this when stepping away from your desk at work, leaving the house for a quick errand, or informing a friend of your return time via a text message. It is perfect for notes left on a door or a desk.

Grammar Breakdown

BinineinerStundewiederda

1

Ellipsis

In casual German, the subject 'Ich' is often dropped when it is obvious from the verb conjugation 'bin'.

2

Temporal 'in'

The preposition 'in' combined with the dative case ('einer Stunde') is the standard way to express 'in [amount of time]'.

🗨In Conversation

A

Gehst du schon zum Mittagessen?

Are you going to lunch already?

Ja, bin in einer Stunde wieder da.

Yes, I'll be back in an hour.

B

Common Mistakes

  • Ich bin an einer Stunde wieder da.

    Use the preposition 'in' to indicate a period of time in the future. 'An' is generally used for specific days or vertical locations.

  • Bin in ein Stunde wieder da.

    The feminine noun 'Stunde' requires the dative ending 'einer' because 'in' functions as a dative preposition when referring to time.

Alternatives

  • Ich komme gleich wieder.

    I'll be right back.

  • Ich bin in einer Stunde zurück.

    I am back in an hour.

de

Cultural Tip

In German culture, punctuality is highly valued. If you say you will be back in an hour, people will generally expect you to return within that timeframe. Dropping the 'Ich' at the beginning of sentences is a very common feature of 'Telegrammstil' (telegram style) used in informal notes and digital messaging.