German Phrase
Wann treffen wir uns?
Meaning
This phrase is the standard way to ask for a specific meeting time in German. It utilizes the reflexive verb 'sich treffen', which literally means 'to meet oneself/each other', making the pronoun 'uns' (us) mandatory for the sentence to be grammatically complete.
When to use
Use this phrase when you have already agreed to see someone and need to pin down the exact time. It is suitable for both informal plans with friends and formal business appointments.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Wanntreffenwiruns
Wann (When)
This is a temporal interrogative used to ask about a point in time.
Reflexive Pronoun (uns)
The verb 'treffen' requires the reflexive pronoun 'uns' when the subject 'wir' is meeting by appointment.
🗨In Conversation
Wollen wir morgen zusammen Mittagessen gehen?
Do we want to go have lunch together tomorrow?
Ja, das ist eine gute Idee! Wann treffen wir uns?
Yes, that is a good idea! When are we meeting?
✕Common Mistakes
Wann treffen wir?
The verb must be reflexive in this context; without 'uns', the sentence feels incomplete to a native speaker.
Wann wir treffen uns?
In a German question starting with a question word, the verb must occupy the second position, immediately following 'Wann'.
↔Alternatives
Um wie viel Uhr treffen wir uns?
At what time are we meeting?
Wann hast du Zeit?
When do you have time?
Wann passt es dir am besten?
When does it suit you best?
Cultural Tip
In German-speaking cultures, punctuality is highly valued. When you ask this question and agree on a time, it is expected that you arrive exactly at that time, as being even five minutes late can be seen as disrespectful in many professional and social circles.