in Ordnung
/ʔɪn ˈɔrdnʊŋ/word by word
The English phrase 'alright' can be translated into German as in Ordnung.
The phrase in Ordnung is versatile. It can function as an adjective meaning 'okay' or 'fine', or as an interjection meaning 'alright' or 'agreed'.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, in Ordnung translates to 'in order'.
Which one should you use?
While in Ordnung implies that things are correct, acceptable or as they should be, the colloquial phrase alles klar is a more common way to say 'alright' or 'understood' during casual conversation.
How does it change in a sentence?
When you want to describe a state of being, you will often see in Ordnung paired with alles (everything) to form the phrase alles in Ordnung, meaning 'everything is alright'.
How do you pronounce it?
/ʔɪn ˈɔrdnʊŋ/
Did you know?
- In some contexts, in Ordnung is used to describe a person's character, implying they are a decent or reliable human being.
- The phrase in Ordnung can be used to express subtle disapproval if said with a certain downward tone, implying something is merely 'tolerable' rather than 'good'.
- The word Ordnung is a heavy-duty concept in German culture, often referring to a strict sense of organization or systematic discipline.
Examples in context
- Es ist alles in Ordnung.Everything is alright.This example shows how to state that everything is in a state of being alright using in Ordnung.Tatoeba #923969 by Espi, translation #913091 by shanghainese
- In Ordnung. Ich gebe auf.Alright. I give up.This example demonstrates using in Ordnung as an interjection to express agreement or acceptance.Tatoeba #11901923 by Naina, translation #5817889 by OsoHombre
- Ist hier alles in Ordnung?Is everything alright here?This example shows how to use the phrase to ask if a situation is alright.Tatoeba #1870928 by Tamy, translation #2703399 by erikspen
- 8 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lukas and Sarah are discussing a plan for the weekend.
- LukasKönnen wir uns morgen um acht treffen?Can we meet tomorrow at eight?
- SarahJa, das ist in Ordnung.Yes, that is alright.
- LukasSuper, dann bis morgen!Super, see you tomorrow then!
- SarahBis morgen, Lukas.See you tomorrow, Lukas.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry in Ordnung, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (in, Ordnung) and can differ in connected speech.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
