das Abendessen ist fertig
The English phrase "dinner is ready" is translated into German as das Abendessen ist fertig.
This phrase is used to inform others that the evening meal has been prepared and is available to eat.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "the evening meal is finished/ready". The word fertig serves as the adjective meaning both "ready" (prepared) or "finished" (completed).
Which one should you use?
Essen ist fertig is a common, slightly more casual way to say this by omitting the article and the specific word for dinner. Additionally, Das Essen ist fertig means "The food is ready".
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective fertig can be used to indicate that something is prepared or that a task is completed.
Did you know?
- The word fertig comes from the Old High German fartīg, which is derived from the noun fart meaning 'journey'. It originally described someone who was equipped and ready to set out on a trip.
- The word fertig can also be used as slang to describe a person who is completely exhausted or 'burnt out', as in Ich bin fertig.
- In some German regions, the 'main meal' of the day is traditionally eaten at midday, meaning das Abendessen is often a lighter, cold meal consisting of bread and cold cuts.
Examples in context
- Das Abendessen ist fertig.Dinner is ready.This sentence is useful for practicing the basic phrase.Tatoeba #341418 by MUIRIEL, translation #39682 by CK
- Das Abendessen ist fertig, Vater.Dinner is ready, Father.This sentence shows how to address a family member while announcing the meal.Tatoeba #341425 by MUIRIEL, translation #282821 by CN
- Das Abendessen ist fertig, wir können essen, wann wir wollen.Dinner is ready, so we can eat whenever we want.This sentence demonstrates using the phrase to explain that people can eat at their own discretion.Tatoeba #403638 by MUIRIEL, translation #324624 by CK
- Das Abendessen ist angerichtet. Bitte nehmen Sie PlatzDinner is served. Please take a seat
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
In a cozy kitchen during the evening.
- JuliaFelix, komm bitte in die Küche!Felix, please come into the kitchen!
- FelixWas gibt es denn heute?What is there today?
- JuliaDas Abendessen ist fertig.Dinner is ready.
- FelixSuper, ich komme sofort.Great, I'm coming right now.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Abendessen, abendessen, das, fertig, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
