Ansage

Ansage is a German noun meaning an announcement, notification, or statement intended to inform an audience. It can refer to a spoken or written message, a broadcast introduction, or a public notice. The term is used in a variety of everyday contexts as a generic label for messages delivered to listeners or observers. More specific terms include Durchsage for transit or public announcements in stations and vehicles, and Ankündigung for formal or planned announcements.

Etymology and form: Ansage is formed from the verb sagen (to say) with the prefix an-, indicating the act of saying something to convey information. The suffix -age is common in German for nouns that denote an action or result derived from a verb (for example, Aussage, Praxis).

Contexts and usage: In transportation settings, a Durchsage is the spoken message announcing arrivals, departures, platform changes, or delays. In broadcasting, an Ansage can denote a host’s introduction, a programme note, or a recorded message heard between programs. In meetings or events, an Ansage may be a brief opening statement or notice about schedule changes. In computing or telecommunications, automated voice prompts or system messages are often referred to as Ansagen, especially when delivered by a voice interface.

See also: Ankündigung, Durchsage, Ansager, Aussage.