Spanish Phrase
El show empieza a las ocho de la noche.
Meaning
This phrase is used to indicate the specific start time of a performance, movie, or event. It uses the present tense of the verb 'empezar' to describe a scheduled activity. The phrase clearly distinguishes the time of day to avoid any ambiguity between morning and evening.
When to use
Use this sentence when coordinating plans with friends or confirming a schedule for a concert, play, or television program. It is appropriate for both casual and semi-formal contexts.
✦Grammar Breakdown
El showempiezaa las ochode la noche
Stem-changing Verbs
The verb 'empezar' is an e-to-ie stem-changing verb, which is why the 'e' becomes 'ie' in the third-person singular.
Articles with Time
In Spanish, hours are feminine plural nouns, so you must use 'las' before the number, except for 'la una' (one o'clock).
🗨In Conversation
¿A qué hora debemos llegar al teatro?
What time should we arrive at the theater?
El show empieza a las ocho de la noche.
The show starts at eight at night.
✕Common Mistakes
El show empieza a ocho de la noche.
You must include the feminine plural article 'las' before the hour.
El show empieza a las ocho en la noche.
When following a specific time, use 'de la noche' instead of 'en la noche'.
↔Alternatives
La función comienza a las ocho.
The performance begins at eight.
El espectáculo es a las veinte horas.
The show is at 20:00 (8 PM).
Cultural Tip
While 'el show' is a very common anglicism used throughout Latin America, 'el espectáculo' or 'la función' are often used in more formal settings or in Spain. Additionally, note that an 8:00 PM start time is often considered early for nightlife in many Spanish-speaking countries where events may not peak until much later.