Italian Phrase
Lavoro da cinque anni.
Meaning
This phrase uses the Italian present tense combined with the preposition 'da' to describe an action that began in the past and continues into the present. While English uses the present perfect continuous ('I have been working'), Italian keeps the verb in the simple present to emphasize the ongoing nature of the state.
When to use
Use this phrase when discussing your professional experience or tenure at a company during interviews or social introductions. It is the standard way to answer the question 'Da quanto tempo lavori?'
✦Grammar Breakdown
Lavorodacinqueanni
Lavoro (Present Tense)
The first-person singular form of 'lavorare'. Italian uses the present tense for actions that are still happening.
Da (Preposition)
This preposition indicates a starting point in time or a duration that continues to the present moment.
🗨In Conversation
Da quanto tempo lavori in questa azienda?
How long have you been working at this company?
Lavoro da cinque anni.
I have been working [here] for five years.
✕Common Mistakes
Ho lavorato per cinque anni.
Using 'per' with the past tense implies the action is finished, meaning you no longer work there.
Lavoro da cinque anni fa.
'Fa' means 'ago' and is used for specific points in time, not for durations of ongoing actions.
↔Alternatives
Lavoro qui da cinque anni.
I have been working here for five years.
Faccio questo lavoro da cinque anni.
I have been doing this job for five years.
Cultural Tip
In Italian culture, mentioning a long tenure at a job often conveys a sense of stability and expertise. When speaking professionally, ensure you use the present tense correctly to show you are still active in that role.