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German Phrase

Ich gehe heute Nachmittag weg.

/ɪç ˈɡeːə ˈhɔʏtə ˈnaːxmɪˌtaːk ˈvɛk/
Meaning"I am going out this afternoon."
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Meaning

This phrase indicates that the speaker intends to leave their current location, typically their home or office, during the afternoon. It uses the separable verb 'weggehen', which conveys the action of departing or going away for a period of time.

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When to use

You should use this phrase in casual or semi-formal settings to inform others of your plans to be absent. It is a common way to say you are heading out without necessarily specifying exactly where you are going.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Ichgeheheute Nachmittagweg

1

Weggehen (Separable Verb)

The verb is 'weggehen'. In a main clause, the conjugated part 'gehe' takes the second position, while the prefix 'weg' moves to the end.

2

Temporal Adverbial

'heute Nachmittag' acts as a single time expression. In German, time elements often follow the verb directly.

🗨In Conversation

A

Hast du heute Zeit für einen Kaffee?

Do you have time for a coffee today?

Nein, tut mir leid, ich gehe heute Nachmittag weg.

No, I'm sorry, I am going out this afternoon.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Ich gehe weg heute Nachmittag.

    In German, the prefix of a separable verb like 'weggehen' must be placed at the very end of the clause.

  • Ich gehe heute Nachmittag ausweg.

    Confusing 'weggehen' with 'ausgehen' or other words; 'weg' is the correct prefix to indicate leaving.

↔Alternatives

  • Ich gehe heute Nachmittag aus.

    I am going out (socially) this afternoon.

  • Ich bin heute Nachmittag unterwegs.

    I am out and about this afternoon.

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Cultural Tip

Germans value clear communication regarding availability. Using this phrase helps manage expectations in a professional or social circle. Note that 'Nachmittag' usually covers the period from roughly 1:00 PM until 6:00 PM.