Italian Phrase
La finestra è bloccata.
Meaning
This phrase is used to describe a window that cannot be opened or moved, usually due to a mechanical issue or being jammed. It uses the verb 'essere' (to be) followed by the past participle 'bloccata', which functions as an adjective here.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are unable to open a window in a hotel, at home, or in a shop. It is a common way to report a minor maintenance problem to a landlord or receptionist.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Lafinestraèbloccata
Gender Agreement
The adjective 'bloccata' must match the feminine noun 'finestra'. If the subject were masculine, like 'il finestrino', it would be 'bloccato'.
Stative Passive
The construction 'essere' + past participle is used here to describe the current state of the object rather than an action being performed.
🗨In Conversation
Fa molto caldo, puoi aprire?
It's very hot, can you open it?
Ci provo, ma la finestra è bloccata.
I'm trying, but the window is stuck.
✕Common Mistakes
La finestra è bloccato.
The adjective must agree with the feminine noun 'finestra', so it should end in 'a'.
Il finestra è bloccata.
'Finestra' is a feminine noun and requires the feminine article 'la'.
↔Alternatives
La finestra non si apre.
The window won't open.
La finestra è incastrata.
The window is jammed.
Cultural Tip
In Italy, windows often have external shutters called 'persiane' or 'tapparelle'. If those are the parts that are stuck rather than the glass, you might specify that, but 'la finestra è bloccata' is the most common general way to express the problem.