Spanish Phrase
Se nos están acabando las toallas.
Meaning
The sentence means 'We are running out of towels.' It conveys that the supply of towels is decreasing and may soon be exhausted. The construction emphasizes the effect on the speakers rather than who is using them up.
When to use
Use this phrase when you notice a shortage of towels in a hotel, gym, or at home and want to inform staff or friends that more are needed.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Senosestánacabandolastoallas
Se (pasiva refleja)
The pronoun 'se' is used to form a reflexive or impersonal construction, indicating that the action happens without a clear agent.
nos (dativo de interés)
The clitic 'nos' indicates that the action affects the speaker and others, similar to 'to us' in English.
están + gerundio
The progressive tense is formed with the verb 'estar' + gerundio, showing an ongoing action.
acabando (gerundio de acabar)
The gerund of 'acabar' expresses that something is in the process of finishing.
las toallas (direct object)
The noun phrase 'las toallas' is the thing that is being depleted.
🗨In Conversation
Se nos están acabando las toallas.
We are running out of towels.
Voy a pedir más al recepcionista.
I'll ask the front desk for more.
✕Common Mistakes
Se nos están acabando las toallas.
Do not use 'están' without the gerund; you need the progressive form 'están acabando'.
Se están nos acabando las toallas.
Placing 'nos' after 'se' is required; 'Se están nos acabando' is incorrect.
Se nos están acabar las toallas.
Using the infinitive 'acabar' changes the meaning; you need the gerund 'acabando' for the ongoing sense.
↔Alternatives
Nos quedamos sin toallas.
We are left without towels.
Se están acabando las toallas.
The towels are running out.
Ya no quedan toallas.
There are no towels left.
Cultural Tip
In Spanish‑speaking countries, it is common to use the reflexive construction 'se + nos' to express a shortage that affects a group. It sounds more natural than a literal translation like 'Estamos quedando sin toallas.' Also, when speaking to hotel staff, using the polite form '¿Podría traernos más toallas, por favor?' is appreciated.