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German Phrase

Ist's schon spät?

/ɪsts ʃoːn ʃpɛːt/
Meaning"Is it already late?"
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Meaning

This phrase is a common contraction of 'Ist es schon spät?'. It is used to inquire about the current time, often implying that the speaker has lost track of time or is surprised by how quickly it has passed.

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When to use

Use this in casual settings with friends, family, or colleagues when you suspect you might need to leave or wrap up an activity. It is very common in spoken German rather than formal writing.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Ist'sschonspät

1

Ist's (Contraction)

This is a fusion of 'ist' (is) and the pronoun 'es' (it), typical for fast-paced spoken German.

2

schon

This adverb means 'already' and adds emphasis to the speaker's realization of the time.

3

spät

An adjective meaning 'late'. Unlike English, German doesn't change this word when used with 'it is'.

🗨In Conversation

A

Ist's schon spät?

Is it already late?

Ja, es ist schon nach elf.

Yes, it is already after eleven.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Bist es schon spät?

    Always use the third-person singular 'ist' for impersonal time expressions, never 'bist'.

  • Ist es schon spätet?

    'Spät' is an adjective; 'spätet' is not a valid word in this context.

↔Alternatives

  • Wie spät ist es?

    What time is it?

  • Ist es bereits spät?

    Is it already late? (More formal)

de

Cultural Tip

Germans are known for their punctuality, so being aware of the time is socially important. Using the contraction 'Ist's' helps you sound more like a native speaker in relaxed environments, whereas 'Ist es' is preferred in formal situations.