Italian Phrase
Hai l'ora?
Meaning
This is a common, informal way to ask someone for the current time in Italian. It literally translates to 'Do you have the hour?' and is used frequently in casual social interactions.
When to use
Use this phrase with friends, family, or people your own age in a casual setting. It is the go-to expression when you need a quick time check from someone you are comfortable with.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Hail'ora
Avere (Hai)
This is the second-person singular present tense of 'avere', meaning 'you have'.
Elision (l')
The definite article 'la' becomes 'l'' before words starting with a vowel, like 'ora'.
🗨In Conversation
Scusa, hai l'ora?
Excuse me, do you have the time?
Sì, sono le quattro in punto.
Yes, it is four o'clock sharp.
✕Common Mistakes
Hai il tempo?
In Italian, 'tempo' refers to time in a general or chronological sense, or the weather, but not the time of day.
C'è l'ora?
You must use the verb 'avere' (to have) rather than 'esserci' (there is) when asking if someone knows the time.
↔Alternatives
Che ore sono?
What time is it?
Che ora è?
What hour is it?
Mi scusi, sa l'ora?
Excuse me, do you know the time? (Formal)
Cultural Tip
While 'Hai l'ora?' is perfect for informal situations, Italians value politeness with strangers or elders. In those cases, switch to the formal 'Ha l'ora?' or use 'Scusi' to get their attention first. It is also common to follow up the answer with a quick 'Grazie mille'.