Spanish Phrase
Son las once y media.
Meaning
This phrase is the standard way to indicate that the time is 11:30. In Spanish, the verb 'ser' is used in its plural form 'son' for all hours except one o'clock. The word 'media' literally means 'half', referring to the half-hour mark.
When to use
Use this phrase whenever you are asked for the current time or when scheduling an event at 11:30. It is appropriate for both casual conversations and professional settings.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Sonlasonceymedia
Son
The plural form of the verb 'ser' used because hours greater than one are considered plural.
las
The feminine plural definite article, which agrees with the omitted noun 'horas'.
media
An adjective meaning 'half' used here to represent thirty minutes past the hour.
🗨In Conversation
¿Perdone, tiene hora?
Excuse me, do you have the time?
Sí, son las once y media.
Yes, it is half past eleven.
✕Common Mistakes
Es las once y media.
Always use 'son' for hours two through twelve; 'es' is only used for one o'clock.
Son las once y medio.
Time is feminine in Spanish (la hora), so you must use the feminine form 'media' to match.
↔Alternatives
Son las once y treinta.
It is eleven thirty.
Faltan treinta para las doce.
It is thirty minutes until twelve.
Cultural Tip
In most Spanish-speaking countries, the 12-hour clock is preferred in daily speech. To specify morning or night, you would add 'de la mañana' or 'de la noche' to the end of the phrase.