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What3words

Consume what3words API
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Overview

This n8n node integrates with the what3words API to convert geographic coordinates (latitude, longitude) into a unique three-word address. This is useful in scenarios where you want to represent precise locations in a human-friendly way, such as sharing meeting points, delivery addresses, or mapping applications.

Example use cases:

  • Converting GPS coordinates from a mobile device into a 3-word address for easy communication.
  • Automating logistics workflows by translating coordinates into memorable addresses.
  • Integrating with customer support systems to help users describe their location more easily.

Properties

Name Type Meaning
Cordinates String The latitude and longitude to convert, e.g., "51.521458,-0.172963".
Language Name or ID Options The language code or name for the resulting 3-word address (selectable from a list).

Output

The node outputs a JSON object containing the result of the conversion. The structure typically includes:

{
  "country": "GB",
  "square": {
    "southwest": { "lat": 51.521417, "lng": -0.173018 },
    "northeast": { "lat": 51.521478, "lng": -0.172939 }
  },
  "nearestPlace": "Bayswater, London",
  "coordinates": { "lat": 51.521458, "lng": -0.172963 },
  "words": "index.home.raft",
  "language": "en",
  "map": "https://w3w.co/index.home.raft"
}
  • country: Country code of the location.
  • square: Bounding box of the 3-word address.
  • nearestPlace: Human-readable place name nearby.
  • coordinates: The original coordinates.
  • words: The generated 3-word address.
  • language: The language used for the address.
  • map: Link to the what3words map for this address.

Dependencies

  • External Service: Requires access to the what3words API.
  • API Key: You must configure a valid what3words API key in n8n credentials under what3wordsApi.

Troubleshooting

  • Missing or Invalid API Key:
    Error message: "401 Unauthorized" or similar.
    Resolution: Ensure your what3words API key is correctly set up in n8n credentials.

  • Invalid Coordinates Format:
    Error message: "Bad Request" or "Invalid coordinates".
    Resolution: Make sure the coordinates are provided in the correct format, e.g., "51.521458,-0.172963".

  • Unsupported Language Code:
    Error message: "Language not supported".
    Resolution: Select a language from the provided options or ensure the language code is valid.

  • API Rate Limits:
    Error message: "429 Too Many Requests".
    Resolution: Check your API usage and consider upgrading your what3words plan if necessary.

Links and References

Discussion