Answerphone
noun
A device that records messages from callers when the person is unable to answer the phone.
I left a message on her answerphone because she wasn't available to talk.
Often appears as...
- leave a message
- check the answerphone
Usage tips
Neutral
General
noun
A device that records messages from callers when the person is unable to answer the phone.
I left a message on her answerphone because she wasn't available to talk.
Often appears as...
- leave a message
- check the answerphone
Usage tips
Neutral
General
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Contextual Usage
'Answerphone' is used primarily in British English; in American English, the term 'voicemail' is more common.
I left a message on her voicemail, but in Britain, it would be more 'answerphone.'
Pro Tip 2/3Politeness Level
When addressing someone about their answerphone, it's more polite to say 'recording device' to sound formal.
Using 'your answerphone' may sound too casual in formal settings.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Understanding
Understanding that answerphones are now less common with the rise of mobile technology and texting is important.
People may prefer texting instead of leaving a voice message.
Pro Tip 1/3Contextual Usage
'Answerphone' is used primarily in British English; in American English, the term 'voicemail' is more common.
I left a message on her voicemail, but in Britain, it would be more 'answerphone.'
Pro Tip 2/3Politeness Level
When addressing someone about their answerphone, it's more polite to say 'recording device' to sound formal.
Using 'your answerphone' may sound too casual in formal settings.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Understanding
Understanding that answerphones are now less common with the rise of mobile technology and texting is important.
People may prefer texting instead of leaving a voice message.
Pro Tip 1/3Contextual Usage
'Answerphone' is used primarily in British English; in American English, the term 'voicemail' is more common.
I left a message on her voicemail, but in Britain, it would be more 'answerphone.'
Pro Tip 2/3Politeness Level
When addressing someone about their answerphone, it's more polite to say 'recording device' to sound formal.
Using 'your answerphone' may sound too casual in formal settings.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Understanding
Understanding that answerphones are now less common with the rise of mobile technology and texting is important.
People may prefer texting instead of leaving a voice message.
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