Italian Phrase
Fa cinque gradi.
Meaning
Literally “It makes five degrees.” In everyday Italian this means the current temperature is five degrees Celsius. It is an impersonal way to talk about the weather.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to tell someone the exact temperature, especially in a casual conversation about the weather, a forecast, or when you’re deciding what to wear.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Facinquegradi
Impersonal verb *fare* (fa)
In Italian weather expressions the verb *fare* is used impersonally: *fa* + temperature. It does not agree with a subject.
Cardinal numbers
The number *cinque* (5) is placed before the noun it quantifies, just like in English.
Plural *gradi*
When talking about temperature you always use the plural *gradi*, even if the number is 1 (e.g., *un grado*).
🗨In Conversation
Fa cinque gradi.
It's five degrees.
Allora meglio indossare una giacca pesante.
Then you’d better wear a heavy jacket.
✕Common Mistakes
È cinque gradi.
The verb *essere* is not used for weather; you must use *fare* (fa).
Fa cinque grado.
When talking about temperature you need the plural *gradi*.
Fa cinque gradi Celsius.
The unit *Celsius* is usually omitted because Celsius is the default in Italy.
↔Alternatives
Ci sono cinque gradi.
There are five degrees.
La temperatura è di cinque gradi.
The temperature is five degrees.
Fa freddo, solo cinque gradi.
It's cold, only five degrees.
Cultural Tip
Italians always use the Celsius scale, even in regions that are used to Fahrenheit elsewhere. In northern Italy a temperature of five degrees is considered quite chilly, so people will typically wear a coat, scarf, and maybe a hat. In the south, five degrees is rare and often prompts a stronger reaction, like staying indoors or drinking a hot beverage.