German Phrase
Ist die Zahnpasta alle?
Meaning
This phrase uses the colloquial German word 'alle' to signify that something has been used up or is no longer available. In this context, it doesn't mean 'all' as in 'everyone', but rather 'empty' or 'finished'. It is the most natural way to ask if a household supply has run out.
When to use
Use this phrase in casual settings, such as at home with family or roommates, when you notice a product is missing or the container is empty. It is applicable to food, toiletries, and other consumable goods.
✦Grammar Breakdown
IstdieZahnpastaalle?
Verb-First Question
In German, simple yes/no questions start with the conjugated verb, in this case 'ist' (is).
Adverbial 'alle'
The word 'alle' functions here as an indeclinable predicate adjective meaning 'used up' or 'finished'.
🗨In Conversation
Ist die Zahnpasta alle?
Is the toothpaste gone?
Ja, wir müssen neue kaufen.
Yes, we have to buy new [toothpaste].
✕Common Mistakes
Ist die Zahnpasta fertig?
Fertig means 'finished' or 'ready' in the sense of a task being completed, not a supply being depleted.
Ist die Zahnpasta leer?
While 'leer' means empty, it usually refers to the container (the tube); 'alle' is more common for the substance itself.
↔Alternatives
Haben wir keine Zahnpasta mehr?
Do we have no more toothpaste?
Die Zahnpasta ist leer.
The toothpaste is empty.
Cultural Tip
In Germany, using 'alle' to mean 'gone' or 'empty' is a hallmark of native-level fluency in daily life. It is much more common in spoken German than in formal writing, where you might see 'aufgebraucht' (consumed/used up) instead.