Italian Phrase
Non fare tardi.
Meaning
A direct, informal way to tell someone not to be late. It’s often used among friends, family, or colleagues when reminding about a meeting, appointment, or event.
When to use
Use it when you want to give a friendly but firm reminder that punctuality matters. It works well in casual conversations, school settings, or workplace chats where the relationship is informal.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Nonfaretardi.
Negation with Non
In Italian, the adverb 'non' precedes the verb to make a statement or command negative.
Imperative of Fare
The verb 'fare' (to do/make) forms its affirmative imperative as 'fa'' (colloquial) or 'fai' (standard). In a negative command, the infinitive 'fare' is kept after 'non'.
Adverb Tardi
'Tardi' is an adverb meaning 'late'. It follows the verb and does not change form.
Politeness Level
The phrase is informal; for formal situations use 'Non faccia tardi' or 'La prego di non arrivare in ritardo'.
🗨In Conversation
Ci vediamo alle otto, giusto?
We’re meeting at eight, right?
Sì, ma non fare tardi!
Yes, but don’t be late!
✕Common Mistakes
Non fare tardare.
The verb 'tardare' means 'to delay' and is not used in this idiom.
Non fare tardi, signor Rossi.
In formal speech the verb should be conjugated: 'Non faccia tardi'.
Fare tardi è scortese.
Dropping 'non' changes the meaning to 'to be late'.
↔Alternatives
Non arrivare in ritardo.
Don’t arrive late.
Sii puntuale.
Be punctual.
Non tardare.
Don’t be late.
Cultural Tip
In Italy, punctuality is highly valued in professional and academic contexts, while social gatherings can be more relaxed. Using 'Non fare tardi' with friends shows you care about their time, but in a formal setting you’d switch to 'Non faccia tardi' or 'La prego di non arrivare in ritardo' to match the appropriate register.