German Phrase
Alles klar, dann?
Meaning
Literally ‘Everything clear, then?’ It is a short, informal way to ask if the listener has understood and is ready to move on. It can also be used as a quick confirmation before starting an action.
When to use
Use it in informal conversations with friends, classmates, or coworkers when you want to check that everyone is on the same page before proceeding. It’s common in meetings, group projects, or when giving instructions.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Allesklar,dann?
Alles (pronoun)
‘Alles’ is an indefinite pronoun meaning ‘everything’; in this phrase it functions as the subject of an implied verb like ‘ist’.
klar (adjective)
‘klar’ is used predicatively to mean ‘clear’ or ‘understood’; it does not need a linking verb when the sentence is elliptical.
dann (adverb)
‘dann’ means ‘then’ and signals a transition to the next step; placed at the end it gives the phrase a forward‑looking tone.
Ellipsis
The full sentence would be ‘Ist alles klar, dann?’ but German often drops the verb ‘ist’ in casual speech.
🗨In Conversation
Wir treffen uns um 18 Uhr vor dem Kino. Alles klar, dann?
We’re meeting at 6 p.m. in front of the cinema. All clear, then?
Ja, klingt gut. Bis später!
Yes, sounds good. See you later!
✕Common Mistakes
Ist alles klar, dann?
Adding ‘ist’ makes the phrase sound overly formal for casual speech; the ellipsis is preferred.
Alles klar dann
Missing the comma and question mark turns the phrase into a statement rather than a question.
Alles klar, dann!
Using an exclamation changes the meaning to a confident affirmation, not a request for confirmation.
↔Alternatives
Alles klar?
All clear?
Ist das klar?
Is that clear?
Verstanden?
Understood?
Okay, dann?
Okay, then?
Cultural Tip
‘Alles klar, dann?’ is very informal. In a formal setting you would use the full sentence ‘Ist alles klar, dann?’ or simply ‘Haben Sie alles verstanden?’. Also, Germans often use a short, clipped tone for this phrase, so keep the intonation light and friendly.