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Italian Phrase

Hai in programma qualcosa di grosso?

/ai in proˈɡram.ma ˈkwal.ko.za di ˈɡros.so/
Meaning"Do you have something big planned?"
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Meaning

Literally “Do you have something big planned?” It’s a casual way to ask if someone is working on an important project, a big event, or a major life change. The tone is friendly and slightly inquisitive, often used among friends or colleagues.

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When to use

Use this question when you suspect someone is preparing a significant undertaking—like a new job, a big trip, a wedding, or a major work project. It works well in informal conversations, coffee breaks, or after hearing a hint about upcoming plans.

Grammar Breakdown

Haiinprogrammaqualcosadigrosso

1

Hai (second‑person singular of avere)

Used here as a present‑tense verb meaning “do you have”. It’s the informal form; use “Ha” for formal situations.

2

in programma

A fixed expression meaning “planned” or “on the agenda”. It works like the English “in the works”.

3

qualcosa di grosso

Literally “something big”. “Di” links the adjective to the noun, a common pattern in Italian (e.g., “un libro di storia”).

4

Question intonation

Raise the pitch at the end of the sentence or add a question mark in writing. In spoken Italian, the verb often carries the rising intonation.

🗨In Conversation

A

Hai in programma qualcosa di grosso?

Do you have something big planned?

Sì, sto per trasferirmi a Milano per lavoro.

Yes, I’m moving to Milan for work.

B

Common Mistakes

  • Hai in programma qualcosa grande?

    The adjective needs the preposition “di” after a noun phrase; use “di grosso”.

  • Hai in programma qualcosa di grossa?

    “Grosso” must agree with the masculine noun “qualcosa”; keep it masculine.

  • Hai in programma qualcosa di grosso??

    Only one question mark is needed; double punctuation is non‑standard.

Alternatives

  • Hai in serbo qualcosa di importante?

    Do you have something important in the works?

  • Stai preparando qualcosa di grande?

    Are you preparing something big?

  • C’è qualche progetto importante in arrivo?

    Is there any important project coming up?

it

Cultural Tip

In Italy, asking about future plans is often a way to show interest and support. Keep the tone light; if the person isn’t ready to share details, they may answer with a vague “non lo so ancora” (I don’t know yet). Avoid sounding too intrusive, especially with older acquaintances.