die Vorwahl
Translation
area code, primary election
Examples
Wie ist die Vorwahl von Berlin?
What is the area code for Berlin?
Die Vorwahlen finden nächsten Monat statt.
The primaries are taking place next month.
Grammar Patterns
the area code for ((sth.)) What is the area code for New York?
to dial an area code ((sth.)) You don't have to dial the area code.
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.