Italian Phrase
È alle 10 di mattina.
Meaning
This phrase is used to specify the time an event or appointment takes place. The word 'è' acts as 'it is', while 'alle' is a contraction of 'a' and 'le' used specifically for telling time. 'Di mattina' clarifies that the time is in the AM period.
When to use
Use this phrase when answering questions about the start time of a meeting, class, or social gathering. It is suitable for both professional and casual environments.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Èalle10di mattina
È (Essere)
The third-person singular of 'essere' is used here to indicate the time of a singular event.
Preposizione Articolata
'Alle' is the combination of 'a' (at) and 'le' (the plural feminine article), which is mandatory before all hours except 'l'una' (one o'clock).
Di mattina
This phrase specifies the time of day; 'mattina' covers the period from dawn until lunch time.
🗨In Conversation
A che ora è l'appuntamento dal medico?
What time is the doctor's appointment?
È alle 10 di mattina.
It is at 10 in the morning.
✕Common Mistakes
È a 10 di mattina.
In Italian, you must use the contracted preposition 'alle' (at the) before hours, not just 'a'.
Sono alle 10 di mattina.
While hours are plural, when referring to the time of an event (the event is at...), use the singular 'è'.
↔Alternatives
Alle dieci.
At ten.
Inizia alle dieci di mattina.
It starts at ten in the morning.
Cultural Tip
While Italians use the 24-hour clock for official schedules like trains or exams, in daily conversation, the 12-hour clock followed by 'di mattina' or 'di sera' is much more common. Punctuality is increasingly valued in business, though a 5-10 minute grace period is often expected in social contexts.