Italian Phrase
Oggi è primo maggio.
Meaning
This phrase is used to state that the current date is the first of May. In Italian, while other days of the month use cardinal numbers, the first day always uses the ordinal number 'primo'.
When to use
Use this phrase on May 1st to announce the date or acknowledge the public holiday. It is appropriate for both daily conversation and formal settings.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Oggièprimomaggio
Oggi
The Italian word for 'today', often placed at the beginning of the sentence for emphasis.
Primo
Unlike other days of the month which use cardinal numbers (due, tre), the first day always uses the ordinal 'primo'.
Maggio
The Italian word for May; note that months are not capitalized in Italian.
🗨In Conversation
Sai che giorno è oggi?
Do you know what day it is today?
Oggi è primo maggio.
Today is May 1st.
✕Common Mistakes
Oggi è uno maggio.
The first day of the month in Italian must use the ordinal number 'primo' instead of the cardinal 'uno'.
Oggi è il primo di Maggio.
Months in Italian are generally not capitalized unless they start a sentence.
↔Alternatives
È la festa dei lavoratori.
It is Labor Day.
Oggi è il primo maggio.
Today is the first of May.
Cultural Tip
May 1st, or 'Primo Maggio', is a significant national holiday in Italy celebrating International Workers' Day. Most businesses are closed, and many Italians attend the famous 'Concerto del Primo Maggio' in Rome or enjoy outdoor picnics with friends and family.