die Vorwahl
Translation
area code, dialling code, primary election
Examples
Wie ist die Vorwahl von Berlin?
What is the dialling code for Berlin?
Die Vorwahlen finden nächsten Monat statt.
The primary elections are taking place next month.
Grammar Patterns
the dialling code for ((sth.)) Was ist die Vorwahl für London?
to dial an area code ((et4)) Sie müssen die Vorwahl nicht wählen.
Similar Words
Synonyms: (phone) Ortsnetzkennzahl; (politics) Primärwahl, Vorausscheidung
Etymology
Composed of 'Vor-' (before) and 'Wahl' (choice, election). For phones, it's the 'choice' (numbers) you make 'before' the main number. For politics, it's the 'election' 'before' the main one.
Memory Tips
Remember that 'Vor-' means 'pre-' or 'before'. This helps connect the two meanings: the code 'before' the phone number, and the election 'before' the final election.