German Phrase
Es ist zehn Uhr.
Meaning
This phrase is the standard way to state the time in German when it is exactly ten o'clock. It uses the impersonal 'es' (it) as the subject and the verb 'sein' (to be) in the third person singular. The word 'Uhr' is used to indicate 'o'clock' or 'hours' in a formal or semi-formal time-telling context.
When to use
Use this phrase whenever someone asks for the time or you need to announce the start of an event at 10:00. It is suitable for both AM and PM in casual conversation, though the 24-hour clock is common in official schedules.
✦Grammar Breakdown
EsistzehnUhr
Es ist
The impersonal subject 'es' combined with 'ist' (is) serves as the standard opening for telling time, similar to 'It is' in English.
Zehn
This is the cardinal number for ten.
Uhr
Unlike English where 'o'clock' is optional, 'Uhr' is very frequently used in German to clarify that you are speaking about the time.
🗨In Conversation
Wie spät ist es?
What time is it?
Es ist zehn Uhr.
It is ten o'clock.
✕Common Mistakes
Es hat zehn Uhr.
German uses the verb 'sein' (to be), not 'haben' (to have) for telling time.
Es ist zehn Stunden.
Use 'Uhr' for the time on a clock; 'Stunden' refers to a duration of time (hours).
↔Alternatives
Es ist zehn.
It is ten.
Zehn Uhr morgens.
Ten o'clock in the morning.
Cultural Tip
In Germany, punctuality is highly valued, so 'Es ist zehn Uhr' usually means exactly 10:00. While casual conversation often uses the 12-hour clock, official times like train schedules or appointments almost always use the 24-hour clock (e.g., 22:00 for 10 PM).