Portuguese Phrase
Já é quase meia-noite.
Meaning
This phrase indicates that the current time is very close to 12:00 AM. The inclusion of 'já' (already) adds a sense of surprise or urgency, suggesting that the speaker didn't realize how late it had become.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are surprised by the time or as a polite excuse to end a conversation and go to sleep. It is appropriate in both casual and formal contexts.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Jáéquasemeia-noite
Já (Already)
This adverb is frequently placed at the beginning of sentences to emphasize that an action or state has already occurred.
Concordance with Meia-noite
Because 'noite' is feminine, the word for 'half' must be 'meia'. This differs from 'meio-dia' (midday), which is masculine.
🗨In Conversation
Você quer ver mais um episódio da série?
Do you want to watch one more episode of the series?
Melhor não, já é quase meia-noite.
Better not, it's already almost midnight.
✕Common Mistakes
Já são quase meia-noite.
The verb 'ser' must be singular ('é') because 'meia-noite' is a singular point in time.
Já é quase meio-noite.
'Noite' is a feminine noun, so you must use the feminine form 'meia' instead of 'meio'.
↔Alternatives
Está quase na hora de dormir.
It's almost time to sleep.
Falta pouco para a meia-noite.
It's almost midnight.
Cultural Tip
In many Portuguese-speaking cultures, especially Brazil, social events often start late and continue well past midnight. Using this phrase is a standard way to signal that you are ready to wrap up your evening.