German Phrase
Ich habe um 15 Uhr einen Termin.
Meaning
This phrase is used to state that you have a pre-arranged commitment or appointment at a specific time. The word 'Termin' is very common in Germany and refers to anything from a business meeting to a doctor's visit or a haircut. It signifies a formal or semi-formal obligation rather than a casual hang-out.
When to use
Use this phrase when you need to explain your schedule to colleagues, friends, or service providers. It is the standard way to mention professional or official engagements in a conversation.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Ichhabeum15 UhreinenTermin
Haben (habe)
The verb 'haben' (to have) is conjugated as 'habe' for the first-person singular 'Ich'.
Um (Preposition)
The preposition 'um' is always used when referring to a specific time on the clock.
Accusative Case
'Termin' is masculine (der Termin). Since it is the direct object of 'habe', the article 'ein' changes to 'einen' in the accusative case.
🗨In Conversation
Hast du heute Nachmittag Zeit für einen Kaffee?
Do you have time for a coffee this afternoon?
Nein, ich habe um 15 Uhr einen Termin.
No, I have an appointment at 3 PM.
✕Common Mistakes
Ich habe am 15 Uhr einen Termin.
In German, 'um' is used for specific clock times, while 'am' is used for days and dates.
Ich habe um 15 Uhr ein Termin.
'Termin' is a masculine noun and is the direct object here, so it requires the accusative article 'einen'.
↔Alternatives
Um 15 Uhr habe ich einen Termin.
At 3 PM, I have an appointment.
Ich bin um 15 Uhr verabredet.
I have an appointment/meeting at 3 PM (often used for social or business meetings).
Cultural Tip
Punctuality is highly valued in German-speaking cultures, and a 'Termin' is a serious commitment. It is standard practice to use the 24-hour clock (15 Uhr instead of 3 Uhr) for appointments to ensure there is no confusion between AM and PM.