Italian Phrase
Sì, ho qualcosa in programma per domenica.
Meaning
This phrase is used to confirm that your schedule is already booked for the upcoming Sunday. It uses the verb 'avere' (to have) followed by the idiomatic expression 'in programma' to indicate an existing commitment or activity.
When to use
Use this when someone asks if you are free or invites you to an event on Sunday. It is a polite and direct way to state that you are unavailable due to prior plans.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Sìhoqualcosain programmaperdomenica
Avere (ho)
The verb 'avere' is used to express having a plan or an appointment in your schedule.
In programma
This is a fixed expression meaning 'on the schedule' or 'planned'.
Per
The preposition 'per' is used here to designate the specific day the plan is set for.
🗨In Conversation
Sei libero per un caffè domenica pomeriggio?
Are you free for a coffee Sunday afternoon?
Sì, ho qualcosa in programma per domenica.
Yes, I have something planned for Sunday.
✕Common Mistakes
Sì, sono qualcosa in programma per domenica.
In Italian, you 'have' (avere) plans, you don't 'are' (essere) plans.
Sì, ho qualcosa in programma a domenica.
Use the preposition 'per' to indicate the day the plan is intended for.
↔Alternatives
Sì, ho già un impegno per domenica.
Yes, I already have a commitment for Sunday.
Sì, sono già occupato domenica.
Yes, I am already busy Sunday.
Cultural Tip
Sunday is a significant day in Italy, often centered around 'il pranzo della domenica' (Sunday lunch) with family. If you have plans on a Sunday, it is very common for people to assume it involves family or a short trip to the countryside or coast.