answering machine
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answering machine
A device or function that answers calls and records a voice message from the caller when no one can personally take the call.
Ich war nicht zu Hause, aber du kannst mir eine Nachricht auf dem Anrufbeantworter hinterlassen.
I wasn't at home, but you can leave me a message on the answering machine.
'Anrufbeantworter' (answering machine) is a compound noun made from 'Anruf' (call) and 'beantworten' (to answer). The ending '-er' here refers to a device. Literally, it is therefore an 'Anruf-Beantworter' (call answerer).
Mein alter Anrufbeantworter mit dem Kassettenband funktioniert immer noch.
My old answering machine with the cassette tape still works.
Common verbs used with 'Anrufbeantworter' (answering machine) are 'eine Nachricht hinterlassen' (to leave a message) and 'den Anrufbeantworter abhören' (to listen to / check the answering machine). The correct preposition is 'auf' with the dative: 'auf dem Anrufbeantworter' (on the answering machine).
Sobald ich zu Hause bin, höre ich meinen Anrufbeantworter ab.
As soon as I'm home, I'll check my answering machine.
In spoken language, the abbreviation 'AB' is often used. This abbreviation is very common and is understood by most native speakers.
Sprich mir einfach auf den AB, ich rufe dich später zurück.
Just leave me a message on the answering machine; I'll call you back later.
mailbox
'der Anrufbeantworter' and 'die Mailbox' can both record voice messages when someone does not answer the phone. 'Anrufbeantworter' sounds more general and can be a separate device or a function, especially with a landline. 'Mailbox' is used very often with mobile phones and then means digital voicemail. Learners may confuse the words because both work similarly when making phone calls. The important point is: 'Mailbox' can also mean a digital inbox for emails. In a phone context, the two are very close, but for mobile phones 'Mailbox' usually sounds more natural.
Nach dem dritten Klingeln sprang der Anrufbeantworter an.
After the third ring, the answering machine picked up.
Ich habe dir auf die Mailbox gesprochen, weil du nicht erreichbar warst.
I left you a voicemail because you couldn't be reached.