Italian Phrase
Ora le innaffio.
Meaning
This phrase indicates that the speaker is about to perform the action of watering something, most commonly plants. The pronoun 'le' is crucial as it refers to a plural feminine noun, such as 'le piante' (the plants) or 'le rose' (the roses), which must have been mentioned previously in the conversation.
When to use
Use this phrase in a domestic or gardening context when someone points out that the plants need water or when you are describing your current chores. It is a practical, everyday expression used among family members or roommates.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Oraleinnaffio
Ora
An adverb meaning 'now', used here to signal an immediate future action.
Le (Direct Object)
This is a third-person plural feminine direct object pronoun that precedes the verb.
Innaffio
The first-person singular present indicative of 'innaffiare' (to water/irrigate).
🗨In Conversation
Le piante sul balcone sembrano un po' secche.
The plants on the balcony look a bit dry.
Hai ragione, ora le innaffio.
You're right, I'll water them now.
✕Common Mistakes
Ora li innaffio.
Use 'le' for feminine plural objects like 'piante'; 'li' is reserved for masculine plural objects.
Ora le innaffiare.
The verb must be conjugated in the present tense 'innaffio' to indicate that 'I' am doing the action.
↔Alternatives
Vado ad innaffiare le piante.
I am going to water the plants.
Dò l'acqua ai fiori.
I am giving water to the flowers.
Cultural Tip
Italians take great pride in their 'balconi fioriti' (flowering balconies), especially in crowded cities. Knowing specific verbs like 'innaffiare' rather than just 'bagnare' (to wet) shows a higher level of fluency and appreciation for local domestic life.