Italian Phrase
Stasera tocca a me fare il padrone di casa.
Meaning
This phrase literally translates to "Tonight it falls to me to do the master of the house." However, it's an idiomatic expression meaning "Tonight it's my turn to host" or "Tonight I'm in charge of hosting." It implies taking on the responsibilities of welcoming guests and managing the event.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are hosting an event, a dinner, or a gathering at your home, and you want to explicitly state that you are taking on the role of the host for that occasion. It's perfect for situations where hosting duties might rotate among friends or family.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Staseratocca a mefareil padrone di casa
Stasera
Stasera means 'tonight'. It's a common adverb of time, combining 'questa' (this) and 'sera' (evening).
Toccare a (qualcuno)
The verb 'toccare a' means 'to be someone's turn' or 'to fall to someone'. It's an impersonal verb, often used with an indirect object pronoun like 'a me' (to me), 'a te' (to you), etc.
Fare il padrone di casa
This is an idiomatic expression meaning 'to act as the host' or 'to host'. 'Padrone di casa' literally means 'master of the house' but is used colloquially for the host.
Il padrone di casa
The definite article 'il' (the) is used before 'padrone di casa' because it refers to a specific role or title, similar to 'il medico' (the doctor) or 'il professore' (the professor).
🗨In Conversation
Chi prepara la cena stasera?
Who's making dinner tonight?
Stasera tocca a me fare il padrone di casa, non preoccuparti!
Tonight it's my turn to be the host, don't worry!
✕Common Mistakes
Stasera è il mio turno fare il padrone di casa.
While "è il mio turno" means "it's my turn," the verb "toccare a" is the correct idiomatic expression for indicating whose turn it is to do something.
Stasera faccio il padrone della casa.
"Padrone di casa" is a fixed idiom. Using "della casa" (of the house) instead of "di casa" (of home/house, in this idiomatic context) sounds unnatural and less idiomatic.
↔Alternatives
Stasera ospito io.
Tonight I'm hosting.
Stasera sono io che offro.
Tonight I'm the one paying/treating.
Stasera mi occupo io di tutto.
Tonight I'll take care of everything.
Cultural Tip
Italian culture places a high value on hospitality and sharing meals. When someone says "Stasera tocca a me fare il padrone di casa," it often comes with the expectation of a warm welcome, good food, and lively conversation. The host takes pride in ensuring guests are comfortable and well-fed, often insisting on serving more food or drink.