Italian Phrase
È mattina?
Meaning
This is a basic interrogative sentence used to inquire about the time of day. In Italian, the verb 'essere' (to be) is used in its third-person singular form 'è' to denote states or times impersonally.
When to use
Use this phrase when you wake up and are unsure of the time, or to confirm if the morning period has begun. It is common in casual settings or when checking the status of the day.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Èmattina
È (Essere)
The verb 'essere' in the third person singular is used for impersonal statements regarding time and weather.
Mattina
A feminine noun meaning morning. In this short question, the definite article 'la' is omitted.
🗨In Conversation
È mattina?
Is it morning?
Sì, sono le otto e mezza. Svegliati!
Yes, it is eight thirty. Wake up!
✕Common Mistakes
Fa mattina?
In Italian, you use 'essere' (to be) rather than 'fare' (to do/make) when asking about the time of day.
C'è mattina?
'C'è' means 'there is', but to identify the time or period, 'è' is the correct impersonal form.
↔Alternatives
È già mattina?
Is it already morning?
Siamo di mattina?
Are we in the morning?
Cultural Tip
In Italy, 'mattina' typically lasts until the midday meal, which is usually served around 1:00 PM or 1:30 PM. After lunch, Italians switch to saying 'pomeriggio' (afternoon).