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Italian Phrase

Ho sonno.

/o ˈson.no/
Meaning"I am sleepy."
πŸ’‘

Meaning

This phrase literally translates to 'I have sleep.' In Italian, physical sensations like sleepiness, hunger, and thirst are expressed using the verb 'avere' (to have) followed by a noun, rather than using 'essere' (to be) with an adjective.

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When to use

Use this phrase when you are feeling drowsy, yawning, or ready to go to bed. It is a common way to explain why you are leaving a party early or declining another cup of coffee.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Hosonno

1

Avere (Ho)

'Ho' is the first-person singular present tense of 'avere' (to have). The 'h' is always silent in Italian.

2

Noun vs Adjective

'Sonno' is a noun meaning 'sleep'. Unlike English which uses the adjective 'sleepy', Italian uses the noun to describe the state.

πŸ—¨In Conversation

A

Vuoi guardare un altro film stasera?

Do you want to watch another movie tonight?

No, scusa, ho sonno. Vado a letto.

No, sorry, I am sleepy. I'm going to bed.

B

βœ•Common Mistakes

  • Sono sonno.

    Do not use 'essere' (to be) with 'sonno'. In Italian, you 'have' sleepiness.

  • Ho stanco.

    'Stanco' is an adjective meaning 'tired' and must be used with 'essere' (Sono stanco).

↔Alternatives

  • Sono stanco.

    I am tired.

  • Muoio di sonno.

    I am dying of sleepiness (very tired).

  • Crollo dal sonno.

    I am collapsing from sleepiness.

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Cultural Tip

While 'Sono stanco' refers to general fatigue or being worn out from work, 'Ho sonno' specifically refers to the biological need to sleep. Using 'avere' for these states is a fundamental part of sounding like a native Italian speaker.