Spanish Phrase
¿A qué hora cenamos?
Meaning
This phrase is the standard way to ask about the scheduled time for the evening meal. It uses the present tense of the verb 'cenar' to inquire about a near-future plan or a daily routine.
When to use
Use this phrase with family, friends, or hosts when you want to coordinate or confirm when the evening meal will be served. It is suitable for both casual and semi-formal settings.
✦Grammar Breakdown
¿Aquéhoracenamos?
The Preposition 'A'
The word 'a' is essential here because it indicates the specific point in time (at) that the action occurs.
Present Tense for Future
Spanish often uses the present tense ('cenamos') to discuss immediate future plans instead of the formal future tense.
🗨In Conversation
Tengo mucha hambre, ¿a qué hora cenamos?
I'm very hungry, what time are we having dinner?
Cenamos a las nueve, cuando llegue tu padre.
We're having dinner at nine, when your father arrives.
✕Common Mistakes
¿Qué hora cenamos?
You must include the preposition 'a' to express 'at' what time an event takes place.
¿A qué tiempo cenamos?
In Spanish, 'hora' is used for clock time, while 'tiempo' refers to duration or general time.
↔Alternatives
¿Cuándo es la cena?
When is dinner?
¿A qué hora se cena aquí?
What time is dinner served here?
Cultural Tip
Dinner times in Spanish-speaking countries, particularly Spain, are significantly later than in the US or UK, often starting after 9:00 PM. In many Latin American countries, dinner might be a lighter meal called 'merienda' or 'lonche' depending on the region.