Italian Phrase
Oggi è il 14 febbraio.
Meaning
This is a standard way to state the date in Italian, specifically referring to Valentine's Day. The structure uses the adverb 'oggi' (today) followed by the verb 'essere' (to be) and the definite article 'il' before the number.
When to use
Use this phrase to identify the current date in a conversation, or to remind someone that it is Valentine's Day. It is appropriate for both formal and informal settings.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Oggièil14febbraio
Oggi
An adverb meaning 'today'. It does not change based on gender or number.
Essere (è)
The third-person singular of the verb 'to be'. It is used to identify dates, times, and qualities.
The Definite Article (il)
Italian dates require the masculine singular article 'il' before the cardinal number.
🗨In Conversation
Che giorno è oggi?
What day is it today?
Oggi è il 14 febbraio.
Today is February 14th.
✕Common Mistakes
Oggi è 14 febbraio.
In Italian, you must almost always include the definite article 'il' before the number when stating a date.
Oggi è il quattordicesimo febbraio.
Unlike English which uses ordinal numbers (14th), Italian uses cardinal numbers (14) for all days of the month except the first.
↔Alternatives
Siamo al 14 febbraio.
It is February 14th (literally: We are at the 14th).
È San Valentino.
It's Valentine's Day.
Cultural Tip
In Italy, February 14th is known as 'La Festa degli Innamorati'. While it has become commercialized with chocolates and flowers, it remains a day primarily for romantic couples to share a 'cena romantica' (romantic dinner).