Italian Phrase
Hai fame?
Meaning
Literally ‘You have hunger?’, this informal question asks whether the listener is hungry and would like to eat something.
When to use
Use ‘Hai fame?’ in casual conversation with friends, family, or peers, typically before a meal or when you’re offering food. In formal settings you would switch to the third‑person form ‘Ha fame?’.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Haifame
Hai (avere)
‘Hai’ is the second‑person singular present of the verb ‘avere’ (to have). It is used to form questions about possession or states.
Fame (noun)
‘Fame’ is a feminine noun meaning ‘hunger’. In Italian, feeling hungry is expressed with the verb ‘avere’ + ‘fame’.
Question intonation
Raising the pitch at the end of the sentence signals a yes/no question, so no extra question word is needed.
🗨In Conversation
Hai fame?
Are you hungry?
Sì, un po’. Vuoi mangiare qualcosa?
Yes, a little. Do you want to eat something?
✕Common Mistakes
Sei fame?
‘Fame’ is not an adjective; you must use ‘avere’ (hai) to express hunger.
Hai fame?
When speaking formally, replace ‘hai’ with ‘ha’ (third‑person) to show respect.
↔Alternatives
Ti va di mangiare?
Do you feel like eating?
Vuoi qualcosa da mangiare?
Do you want something to eat?
Stai morendo di fame?
Are you starving?
Cultural Tip
Food is a central part of Italian social life, so asking ‘Hai fame?’ is a friendly way to start a meal or a coffee break. Remember to match the level of formality: use ‘Hai fame?’ with people you know well, and ‘Ha fame?’ when speaking to strangers, elders, or in a professional context. In some southern dialects you might hear ‘Hai famme?’ but the standard Italian form is preferred in most learning materials.