Italian Phrase
È ora di andare?
Meaning
This phrase is a standard way to ask if the current moment is appropriate for departure. It combines the verb 'essere' (to be) with 'ora' (hour/time) and the prepositional infinitive 'di andare' (to go). It is polite yet direct, often used to check if a group is ready to leave.
When to use
Use this when you are at a social gathering, a meeting, or a dinner and want to gauge if it is time to depart. It is suitable for both formal and informal settings depending on your tone.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Èoradiandare
È
The third-person singular of the verb 'essere' (to be), used here as 'it is'.
Ora
Means 'hour' or 'time' in this context, functioning as the subject of the sentence.
Di andare
The preposition 'di' links the noun 'ora' to the infinitive verb 'andare' (to go).
🗨In Conversation
La cena è finita.
Dinner is finished.
È ora di andare?
Is it time to go?
✕Common Mistakes
C'è ora di andare?
Use 'è' (it is) instead of 'c'è' (there is) when referring to the time for an action.
È ora per andare?
The preposition 'di' is required after 'ora' when followed by an infinitive.
↔Alternatives
Andiamo?
Shall we go?
Possiamo andare?
Can we go?
Si parte?
Are we leaving?
Cultural Tip
In Italy, social gatherings often last quite late, and asking this too early might be seen as a sign that you aren't enjoying yourself. However, it is a very common phrase used among friends to signal the end of an evening without being rude.