Italian Phrase
No, non lavoro nei fine settimana.
Meaning
This phrase is a clear way to state that you do not have professional duties during the weekend. It uses a double negation structure common in Italian to provide a definitive answer regarding your work schedule.
When to use
Use this phrase when a colleague, boss, or friend asks if you are available for work-related tasks or meetings on Saturday or Sunday. It is a standard response for setting boundaries between work and personal life.
✦Grammar Breakdown
No,nonlavoroneifine settimana
Double Negation
It is standard to start with 'No' and then use 'non' immediately before the verb to negate the sentence.
Lavoro (Verb)
This is the first-person singular present tense of the verb 'lavorare'. In Italian, the subject 'io' (I) is usually omitted because the verb ending '-o' already indicates the speaker.
Nei
This is a 'preposizione articolata' combining 'in' (in/at) and 'i' (the, plural) to mean 'in the' or 'during the'.
🗨In Conversation
Sei disponibile per una chiamata sabato mattina?
Are you available for a call Saturday morning?
No, non lavoro nei fine settimana.
No, I don't work on weekends.
✕Common Mistakes
No, non lavoro in fine settimana.
In Italian, you need the articulated preposition 'nei' (in + i) to refer to 'during the' weekends in a general sense.
No, non lavoro su fine settimana.
English speakers often try to translate 'on weekends' literally using 'su', but Italian uses 'nei' or 'il' for time expressions.
↔Alternatives
Il fine settimana non lavoro.
I don't work on the weekend.
Sono libero nel weekend.
I am free on the weekend.
Cultural Tip
In Italy, 'il fine settimana' is increasingly referred to by the English loanword 'il weekend'. While work culture is evolving, many Italians strongly protect their Sunday as a day for family 'pranzo' (lunch) and rest, making this phrase very common.