Italian Phrase
Ho 25 anni.
Meaning
This phrase is the standard way to state your age in Italian. Unlike English, which uses the verb 'to be' (I am), Italian uses the verb 'avere' (to have), effectively saying you 'possess' a certain number of years.
When to use
Use this phrase when introducing yourself or answering questions about your age in both formal and informal settings. It is the direct response to the question 'Quanti anni hai?'.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Ho25anni
Avere (Ho)
The verb 'avere' means 'to have'. In the first person singular 'ho', the 'h' is silent and serves only to distinguish it from other words.
Noun Plurality
'Anni' is the plural form of 'anno' (year). Since you have more than one year, the noun must always be plural.
🗨In Conversation
Piacere, io sono Marco. Quanti anni hai?
Nice to meet you, I'm Marco. How old are you?
Piacere mio! Ho 25 anni.
The pleasure is mine! I am 25 years old.
✕Common Mistakes
Sono 25 anni.
In Italian, you must use the verb 'avere' (to have) rather than 'essere' (to be) to express age.
Ho 25 anno.
'Anno' is singular; you must use the plural 'anni' for any age greater than one.
↔Alternatives
Ne ho 25.
I'm 25. (Literal: I have 25 of them.)
Ho venticinque anni.
I am twenty-five years old.
Cultural Tip
In Italy, it is common to share your age in social settings among peers, but when speaking to older individuals or in professional environments, it is often more polite to wait for the topic to arise naturally. Birthdays are celebrated with 'tanti auguri' and often the birthday person treats their friends.