Italian Phrase
Adesso è mattina.
Meaning
This phrase is a simple declarative statement used to identify the current time of day. 'Adesso' functions as the adverb 'now', and 'mattina' refers to the period between dawn and midday.
When to use
Use this phrase when someone asks for the time of day or to establish the setting of a conversation. It is appropriate for both formal and informal situations.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Adessoèmattina
Adesso
An adverb meaning 'now'. It can be placed at the beginning or end of a sentence for emphasis.
È (Essere)
The third-person singular present tense of 'essere' (to be), used here to describe a state of time.
🗨In Conversation
Che ore sono?
What time is it?
Non lo so, ma adesso è mattina.
I don't know, but now it is morning.
✕Common Mistakes
Adesso fa mattina.
In Italian, you use the verb 'essere' (to be) rather than 'fare' (to do/make) to describe the time of day.
Adesso è il mattina.
When stating the time of day generally, the definite article is typically omitted.
↔Alternatives
È mattina.
It's morning.
Siamo di mattina.
It is morning (literally: We are of morning).
Cultural Tip
In Italy, 'mattina' generally lasts until the lunch hour, which usually begins around 1:00 PM. Until then, it is customary to greet people with 'Buongiorno' (Good morning/Good day).