In Germany, the 24-hour time format is often preferred over the 12-hour system used in many English-speaking countries. This system eliminates the need to distinguish between AM and PM. For example, “Es ist fünfzehn Uhr” (It’s 15:00) would be understood as 3:00 PM in English, but Germans would use the 24-hour system more frequently in both spoken and written contexts.To express time in the 24-hour format, simply say the hour followed by the word “Uhr”. For example:

• “Es ist zehn Uhr dreißig” (It’s 10:30).
• “Es ist zwanzig Uhr” (It’s 8:00 PM).

Although the 24-hour time system is most common in formal settings (like public transport schedules, business contexts, and timetables), it’s becoming more familiar in everyday spoken language as well. Understanding and using the 24-hour system is a critical part of mastering time in German, especially when traveling through Germany or communicating with Germans in formal settings.