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German Phrase

Wie wär's um 18 Uhr?

/viː vɛːɐ̯s ʊm axtˌtseːn uːɐ̯/
Meaning"How about 6 PM?"
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Meaning

This phrase is a contraction of 'Wie wäre es um 18 Uhr?' and is used to suggest a specific time for a meeting. The use of 'wäre' (subjunctive II) makes the suggestion sound polite and tentative rather than demanding.

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When to use

Use this phrase when coordinating plans with friends or colleagues. It is appropriate for both casual and semi-formal contexts when a time needs to be settled.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Wiewär'sum18 Uhr

1

wär's

A contraction of 'wäre es'. 'Wäre' is the subjunctive II of 'sein', used to make the suggestion polite.

2

um

This preposition is the standard way to introduce a specific time on the clock.

3

18 Uhr

Germany uses the 24-hour clock for clarity. '18 Uhr' corresponds to 6 PM in the 12-hour system.

🗨In Conversation

A

Wollen wir heute Abend ins Kino gehen?

Do we want to go to the cinema tonight?

Ja, gerne! Wie wär's um 18 Uhr?

Yes, gladly! How about 6 PM?

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Wie ist es um 18 Uhr?

    Using 'ist' sounds like you are asking for a status update rather than making a suggestion; 'wäre' is the standard for proposals.

  • Wie wäre es am 18 Uhr?

    In German, 'um' is used for specific clock times, while 'am' is reserved for days and dates.

↔Alternatives

  • Passt dir 18 Uhr?

    Does 6 PM suit you?

  • Geht es um 18 Uhr?

    Does it work at 6 PM?

  • Treffen wir uns um 18 Uhr?

    Shall we meet at 6 PM?

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Cultural Tip

Punctuality is a core cultural value in German-speaking countries. When you suggest '18 Uhr,' it is expected that you will arrive exactly at 6:00 PM. Also, note that Germans almost exclusively use the 24-hour clock for appointments and schedules.