Italian Phrase
Si sono conosciuti l'anno scorso.
Meaning
This phrase describes the moment two or more people first became acquainted. It uses the reciprocal reflexive form of the verb 'conoscere' in the passato prossimo tense to indicate a completed action in the past. The sentence specifically highlights the timing of their initial meeting.
When to use
Use this phrase when explaining the history of a relationship or friendship to others. It is perfect for social situations where you are recounting how a couple or a group of friends first met.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Sisonoconosciutil'annoscorso
Si (Reciprocal Pronoun)
In this context, 'si' means 'each other,' indicating the action is shared between the subjects.
Passato Prossimo with Essere
Reflexive verbs require 'essere' as the auxiliary. The past participle 'conosciuti' ends in 'i' to agree with a masculine plural subject.
L'anno scorso
This is a standard time marker for 'last year.' Note that 'scorso' must agree with the noun it modifies.
🗨In Conversation
Come si sono conosciuti Marco e Giulia?
How did Marco and Giulia meet?
Si sono conosciuti l'anno scorso ad una festa.
They met each other last year at a party.
✕Common Mistakes
Si hanno conosciuti l'anno scorso.
Reflexive and reciprocal verbs in Italian always use 'essere' as the auxiliary verb in compound tenses.
Si sono conosciuto l'anno scorso.
The past participle must agree in gender and number with the plural subject when using 'essere'.
↔Alternatives
Si sono incontrati l'anno scorso.
They met/encountered each other last year.
Si conoscono dall'anno scorso.
They have known each other since last year.
Cultural Tip
In Italian culture, the 'come vi siete conosciuti' (how did you meet) story is a popular icebreaker. Italians often use the verb 'conoscersi' to imply a proper introduction, whereas 'incontrarsi' might suggest a more chance encounter.