Italian Phrase
Quando arriva là?
Meaning
A question that asks for the time of arrival at a specific place. It can refer to a person, a vehicle, or any entity that is expected to reach a location.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are waiting for someone, coordinating travel plans, or confirming a schedule. It works in both informal and formal contexts, the latter when addressing someone with the polite *Lei* form.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Quandoarrivalà?
Quando
Interrogative adverb meaning 'when', used to ask about time.
arriva
Third‑person singular present indicative of *arrivare* (to arrive). It can also serve as the formal 'you' (Lei) in polite conversation.
là
Adverb of place meaning 'there', often used for a location that is farther away or already mentioned.
🗨In Conversation
Quando arriva là?
When will you arrive there?
Arriverò alle tre, quindi ci vediamo al ristorante.
I'll arrive at three, so we'll meet at the restaurant.
✕Common Mistakes
Quando arrivi là?
Use *arriva* (present indicative) for a factual question; *arrivi* is subjunctive and would be wrong here.
Dove arriva là?
*Dove* means 'where', not 'when'. The correct interrogative for time is *quando*.
Quando arriva lì?
While *lì* is more common, swapping *là* with *lì* changes the nuance; learners should keep the original phrase as given.
↔Alternatives
A che ora arriva?
At what time does it arrive?
Quando arriverai?
When will you arrive?
A che ora arriverai lì?
At what time will you arrive there?
Cultural Tip
In everyday Italian, speakers often prefer *lì* over *là* for a place that is relatively close or already known to the listener. *Là* can sound a bit more distant or emphatic. Also, the shorter *Quando arriva?* is perfectly natural when the location is obvious from context. Remember that *arriva* can be used for the formal *Lei*; if you want a casual *tu* you could say *Quando arrivi?*.