Asking and telling the time in Italian
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This section will give you an overview of Italian time habits and teach you how to ask and tell the hour.
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You can use one of the following expressions to ask the time.
Italian | English |
---|---|
Che ore sono? | What time is it? (Informal) |
Scusami, che ore sono? | Excuse me, what time is it? (Informal) |
Mi sai dire che ora è? | Can you tell me what time is it? (Informal) |
Mi scusi, che ora è? | Excuse me, what time is it? (Formal) |
Può dirmi l'ora, per favore? | Could you please tell me the time? (Formal) |
Mi sa dire l'orario, per favore? | Do you know what time is it, please? (Formal) |
When telling the time, use the following structure.
Sono le (It's) + Hours + E + Minutes
Time | Italian | English |
---|---|---|
8:00 | Sono le otto | It's eight o'clock |
8:05 | Sono le otto e cinque | It eight five |
8:10 | Sono le otto e dieci | It's eight ten |
8:15 | Sono le otto e quindici | It's eight fifteen |
8:20 | Sono le otto e venti | It's eight twenty |
8:25 | Sono le otto e venticinque | It's eight twenty-five |
8:30 | Sono le otto e trenta | It's eight thirty |
8:35 | Sono le otto e trentacinque | It's eight thirty-five |
8:40 | Sono le otto e quaranta | It's eight forty |
8:45 | Sono le otto e quarantacinque | It's eight forty-five |
8:50 | Sono le otto e cinquanta | It's eight fifty |
8:55 | Sono le otto e cinquantacinque | It's eight fifty-five |
In informal contexts it is possible to use the following expressions.
Time | Italian | English |
---|---|---|
8:15 | Sono le otto e un quarto | It's a quarter past eight |
8:30 | Sono le otto e mezza | It's half past eight |
8:40 | Sono le nove meno venti | It's twenty to nine |
8:45 | Sono le nove meno un quarto Sono le nove e tre quarti | It's a quarter to night |
8:50 | Sono le nove meno dieci | It's ten to nine |
8:55 | Sono le nove meno cinque | It's five to nine |
As you can from the examples, when telling an hour we use the plural expression Sono le.
However the following hours use another expression, that is E' (article).
Time | Italian | English |
---|---|---|
01:00 | E' l'una | It's 1 |
12:00 (12 am) | E' mezzogiorno | It's Midday |
00:00 / 24:00 (12 pm) | E' mezzanotte | It's Midnight |
In Italian there is no distinction between AM and PM.
If you use a number from 1 to 12, make sure the listener can distinguish between an hour in the night or in the morning.
If the listener cannot distinguish between an hour in the night or in the morning, use numbers from 0 to 23 (it's more formal).
Time | Italian | English |
---|---|---|
18:45 (6:45 pm) | Sono le diciotto e quarantacinque | It's six forty-five pm |
20:10 (8:10 pm) | Sono le venti e dieci | It's eight ten pm |
Here is a list with the different moments of the day in Italian and some related expressions.
Time span | Name | English | Expressions | English |
---|---|---|---|---|
00:00 - 6:00 (12 pm-6 am) | La notte | The night | Di notte / La notte | At night |
6:00 - 12:00 (6 am-12 am) | Il mattino | The morning | Di mattina / La mattina / Del mattino | In the morning |
12:00 - 18:00 (12 am-6 pm) | Il pomeriggio | The afternoon | Di pomeriggio / Nel pomeriggio / Del pomeriggio | In the afternoon |
18:00 - 24:00 (6 pm-12 pm) | La sera | The evening | Di sera / La sera | In the evening |
Look at the following constructions to understand how time expressions are used.
Part of the day | Italian | English | Italian | English |
---|---|---|---|---|
Night | All'una di notte Alle due di notte Alle tre di notte (...) | At 1 am At 2 am At 3 am (...) | Devono lavorare anche di / la notte | They have to work at night too |
Morning | Alle sette del mattino Alle otto del mattino Alle nove del mattino (...) | At 7 am At 8 am At 9 am (...) | Preferisco alzarmi presto di / la mattina | I prefer to get up early in the morning |
Afternoon | Alle tre del pomeriggio Alle quattro del pomeriggio Alle cinque del pomeriggio (...) | At 3 pm At 4 pm At 5 pm (...) | L'ufficio postale è aperto di / nel pomeriggio | The post office is open in the afternoon |
Evening | Alle otto di sera Alle nove di sera Alle dieci di sera (...) | At 8 pm At 9 pm At 10 pm (...) | Ci piace molto uscire di / la sera | We really like to go out in the evening |
It's also possible to use:
Alle quattro del mattino / Alle cinque del mattino (...)
At 4 am / At 5 am (...)
There is sometimes no specific distinction between Pomeriggio (Afternoon) and Sera (Evening); the definition may be flexible.
Alle cinque del pomeriggio, di sera / Alle sei di pomeriggio, di sera (...)
At 5 pm / At 6 pm (...)
Take a look at the following dialogue about asking at telling the time.
Italian | English | |
---|---|---|
Mario | Che ore sono Chiara? | What time is it, Chiara? |
Chiara | Sono le cinque e un quarto. | It's a quarter past five. |
Mario | E' molto tardi! Ho un appuntamento con Marco alle sette e mezza in un'altra città. | It's very late! I have an appointment with Marco at seven thirthy in another city. |
Chiara | Sei sicuro? Mi avevi detto che era alle otto e venti. | Are you sure? You told me it was at eight twenty, once. |
Mario | Hai ragione. Grazie! | You are right. Thank you! |
Chiara | Prego! | You're welcome! |
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I am from Calabria, but over the years I have felt at home in various places. In each one I have searched for my way and in the end in each one I have found little clues that have allowed me to understand that I want to teach my language to those who do not yet know it.
I have always loved the word, its power and the infinite possibilities it offers; at first I only thought of writing it down but there was still something missing. What use is the word if it is not shared, if it does not become an opportunity for exchange between cultures, or better, between individuals?
So, between one suitcase and another, I graduated in Italian literature and specialised in journalism, then I obtained the Ditals II from the University for Foreigners of Siena and the two-year specialisation school as a teacher of Italian to foreigners at the same university.
I have been teaching Italian for more than ten years: in Italy in state schools, in schools for adult migrants (Cpia in Modena and Rome) and in public schools; abroad at the Dante Alighieri in Valletta and at the University of Cork.
I have a passion for music, cinema, documentaries and photography, different mo(n)es which allow me to learn and tell stories.
Step by step I have become more and more aware of how much I love this job which has given me the opportunity to meet wonderfully unique people, now very often friends.
I look forward to sharing more details of my experience and motivations with you. Thank you for your time consideration.
Sincerely,
Federica Lento
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Just great experience! Thank you. To be continued. What a nice and easy platform. Good and interesting teacher.. Congradulations. Nina
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I am an enthusiastic, dedicated and adaptable teacher. I always use the communicative method in my teaching and I try to make my students feel comfortable by creating a funny and relaxed environment.
I hope to see you soon in one of my classes!
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Amazing teacher , always on time and the more I took lessons the more I understood Italian , I am still not speaking well but I can understand 75% of what people on the street are saying to me compared to the beginning when I only understood 20-30% , that really helped me a lot specially since it is hard to find English speaking places around me , the lesson is always on time and the teacher is flexible and the teaching materials are great with Italian culture and everyday life mixed in recommended
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Hello everyone!
My name is Ermanno, I am 37 years old, and I am a Italian native speaker.
I got a Master Degree in 2010. Since then I have worked with languages, as a student support, tour guide and event coordinator between Spain and Ireland.
Also, I have been teaching Italian and Spanish giving private classes to students and refugees for over ten years.
I speak English (level c1) and Spanish (level c2) well enough to explain something to you in one of those languages just in case you need.
We can have amazing Italian or Spanish Classes if you are starting to get into a new language or if you just need some conversation classes to broaden or refine your vocabulary.
I will guide and support you through your learning adventure!
Are you ready for that?
-What I offer-
I have been teaching Italian and Spanish for more than 10 years so far, and I have always used no traditional teaching method.
What we need is to enjoy the class, to express ourself and our creativity.
That's the best way to learn and to keep learning.
Furthermore, I will guide you in all the learning process steps and you will learn the grammar in a funny way. ;)
In the conversation class we spend the full hour talking in Italian/spanish about topics of your interest (sports, arts, traveling, culture, food, relations..);and I will make you speak as much as you can.
WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT YOU SPEAK AS MUCH YOU CAN?
Because our brain need some time to make us fluent and being confident speaking in another language.
Do not be afraid to make mistakes.
It is the essential and funniest part of the learning process.
What are you waiting for?
Ci vediamo presto L'Italiano ti aspetta!
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Perfect the class with Ermanno. Punctual, professional, educational and very friendly. He prepared the class in advance and adjusted to what I asked. Also send me a pdf with the class information so you can review it at home !! We were able to take full advantage of it. As soon as I have a little more time I will sign up for more classes with Ermanno without hesitation. Recommended 100%
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Finally, as a result of my volunteer position as a documents advisor for immigrants, I can help students to prepare for the B1 level Italian language exam, which is necessary to apply for Italian citizenship.
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Roberta, is a fantastic teacher! She really helped to improve my confidence in using the formal Italian and in preparing for interviews in Italy. She tailored all our lessons to exactly my needs, and we also had a laugh in the process. Thanks again for all your help Roberta!
Roberta L.Thank you very much Emma, they are very happy to have helped you!
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Hello, I'm Paul originally from London, I've been teaching adults for 9 years online and in person, individually and in groups. I'm passionate about teaching and helping people improve their communication, I really like travelling and realise how important english can be for people's jobs and social lives so I do whatever I can so my students reach their objectives.
I love hearing people's opinions and discussing lots of subjects and I base my classes on your interests.
I have a very high success rate preparing students for exams and can offer some great tips and advice to help you pass whatever exam you're studying for.
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Paul is a well-structrured, certified and experienced teacher. He is passionate about teaching English and is a very good choice as a teacher.
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
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Hello, everybody ! My name is Elena. I’m a native Italian speaker, I’m 49 years old and live in Turin. I am a certified CEDILS teacher, I graduated in Foreign Languages and Literature in Milan and have been working as a teacher of Italian for more than 10 years. I speak English and German. I attended specialization courses for Italian L2 teachers and I am interviewer for C1 PLIDA exam.
Are you seeking a friendly and dynamic study environment ? I got what you need. I am looking forward to being in touch with new students and organize pleasant, interesting and fruitful courses.
Do you wish to learn or improve your Italian to speak with your parents or friends? Do you need Italian for work or study ? Do you simply love Italian language and culture ? Do you need to improve your writing skills ?
My classes are tailored on your needs and considering your level of knowledge, I create a proper course plan. Classes focus on language and on the possibility for you to improve your ability to speak and understand Italian in your daily life or in work.
I offer 1-to-1 or 2-to-1 tuition, general Italian courses (grammar, conversation, listening, reading and writing), preparation to Italian examinations (all levels, also Italian for residence permit) and Italian and culture courses.
Grammar, vocabulary exercises, reading articles and magazines and talking together are all tools to feel at ease with the Italian language and then be able to practice it.
I have worked with children, adolescents and adults for all levels of Italian, from beginner to advanced. I have experience in preparing students to international certification (CILS, PLIDA). I was an A2/B1 Telc examiner.
Learning Italian can be closely related to culture, literature, music, sport and any other interest of my students.
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Elena is an incredible teacher. She has great methodology and knowledge to assist the student in his needs. She helps you to see your potential and gives feedback helping you to improve your knowledge of the language. Thanks Elena for you support in this process.
Elena F.Thanks so much ! It is a pleasure to work with you, you are a very good and very very nice student.
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Hello, everybody ! My name is Elena. I’m a native Italian speaker, I’m 49 years old and live in Turin. I am a certified CEDILS teacher, I graduated in Foreign Languages and Literature in Milan and have been working as a teacher of Italian for more than 10 years. I speak English and German. I attended specialization courses for Italian L2 teachers and I am interviewer for C1 PLIDA exam.
Are you seeking a friendly and dynamic study environment ? I got what you need. I am looking forward to being in touch with new students and organize pleasant, interesting and fruitful courses.
Do you wish to learn or improve your Italian to speak with your parents or friends? Do you need Italian for work or study ? Do you simply love Italian language and culture ? Do you need to improve your writing skills ?
My classes are tailored on your needs and considering your level of knowledge, I create a proper course plan. Classes focus on language and on the possibility for you to improve your ability to speak and understand Italian in your daily life or in work.
I offer 1-to-1 or 2-to-1 tuition, general Italian courses (grammar, conversation, listening, reading and writing), preparation to Italian examinations (all levels, also Italian for residence permit) and Italian and culture courses.
Grammar, vocabulary exercises, reading articles and magazines and talking together are all tools to feel at ease with the Italian language and then be able to practice it.
I have worked with children, adolescents and adults for all levels of Italian, from beginner to advanced. I have experience in preparing students to international certification (CILS, PLIDA). I was an A2/B1 Telc examiner.
Learning Italian can be closely related to culture, literature, music, sport and any other interest of my students.
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I had a trial class with Elena, and was very satisfied with the professionalism and all the teaching experience that she possesses. Will definitely continue to have classes with her.
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**Other time slots can be made available upon request. Don't hesitate to get in touch**
Native speaker from Paris with about 15 years of teaching experience. I’m well-travelled, and I’ve lived and worked in different parts of the world (Europe, Latin America, North America, Africa, Australia and a little bit in Asia).
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Being an open-minded, flexible and patient teacher, I enjoy helping others to discover their potential and to explore it. Adapting myself to my students' needs, pace and objectives is essential for me, and designing the best way to work with each student is very stimulating and rewarding.
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The learning materials will be varied, and we will choose together the themes and aspects of French language to be covered, in line with your objectives. In any case, I am very attentive in general, so please don't hesitate to make any suggestions.
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Hi there! My name is Era Jane Castillo. You can call me Teacher Jane. I live in the Philippines. I graduated from Holy Cross College of Calinan, Inc. with the degree of Bachelor of Elementary Education Generalist. I am also a Licensed Professional Teacher. I have acquired a TEFL certificate.
I have been a teacher for 4 years in a school-based. I am teaching both kids and adults. I am friendly and outgoing person. Let me be your English and Filipino Instructor here at colanguage. I know that learning a new language is not easy. It could be full of struggles. You will need a lot of practice too.
That is why I am here for you. As your online teacher, I will make the time you spend with me worthwhile. My teaching style is very light. You will not feel pressure in learning. Our sessions will be fun and interactive. I will use power point presentations as our material in learning languages. We can discuss anything under the sun. Join me now and I will help you improve in speaking in English and Filipino. See you in class!
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Era Jane has a very friendly personality and is a great and very experienced Tagalog teacher. She prepares the lessons very carefully, focusing on all relevant aspects such as conversation, grammar, and vocabulary. I am very much looking forward to continuing the lessons with her and to become more proficient in the language.
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Buongiorno gente!
Are you ready to learn italian with me?
My name is Mojra and I'm a qualified mother tongue tutor. Whether you need to prepare yourself for a job interview, you're planning to relocate to Italy or to spend your next holiday there, I look forward to assisting you to achieve your goals!
I am here to help you improve you grammar, sentence structure and to teach you helpful phrases in a fun and relaxed way.
I graduated from university majoring in Linguistic Mediation and in Modern Languages and then I specialized in the teaching of Italian as a second language, attending a one-year post-graduate course devoted to this and receiving excellent grades (FILIS: Formatori Interculturali di Lingua Italiana per Stranieri). I also teach in the Italian public schools.
If you'd like to learn Italian fluently, I'd love to be your teacher, then why not book a trial class with me now? In this lesson, we will design a lesson plan especially for you discussing how you will reach your specific goals.
IMPORTANT: Please contact me before booking your lesson with me and let me know your Italian level as well as the reasons why you want to learn Italian.
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Moijra is very good teacher, patient and supportive She has the know how to transfer to her beginner students the needed knowledge
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Hi everyone!
My name is Daniela, I am Italian and I come from a small town in Sicily, Southern Italy. I am a qualified Italian language teacher and a CELI examiner! I work in two language schools teaching Italian and I also teach English at school.
I love foreign languages, translating, reading and listening to music. Are you ready to start your language learning path with me? We are going to learn many things and to talk a lot, if you allow me to! Don’t worry if you’ve never studied the language before: everyone can attend my classes – from beginner to advanced students. You just need passion for what you're going to do and... a good Internet connection. Materials are provided by me!
See you online!
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Daniela is a well skilled teacher with patience and a great personality, always joyful and happy. She understands my needs well and the lessons are tailored to give me a good learning experience. The lessons are always a good combination of speaking, reading and grammar. Daniela is always flexible when I need to change the schedule. I can highly recommend choosing Daniela. You'll for sure have a fun learning experience with her.
Daniela V.Thanks so much for your words, Wouter! I am very happy that you feel comfortable with the lessons together and I hope to help you grow more and more. You are doing a great job. Keep it up! :-D
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