ora di cena
/ˈo.ra di ˈt͡ʃe.na/word by word
The English phrase "dinner time" is translated into Italian as ora di cena.
ora di cena is used to refer to the time of day when the evening meal is eaten.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of ora (hour or time), di (of) and cena (dinner).
How does it change in a sentence?
When you are referring to a specific, known dinner time, you should use the definite article at the front to form l'ora di cena.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /ˈo.ra di ˈtʃe.na/. The word has 4 syllables, and the stress is on the 1st syllable.
Did you know?
- In Italy, l'ora di cena typically occurs much later than in English-speaking countries, often starting between 7:30 PM and 9:00 PM.
- The word cena is etymologically related to the English word 'share' or 'part', as both stem from the Proto-Indo-European root meaning 'to cut' or 'to divide'.
- Because cena is the final meal of the day, it is often followed by a passeggiata, a leisurely social stroll through the town.
Examples in context
- Mi scusi, che ore sono? È l'ora di cena?Excuse me, what time is it? Is it dinner time?
- È quasi l'ora di cena.It is almost dinner time.
Example conversation
Giulia and Matteo are at home in the early evening.
- GiuliaMatteo, è già l'ora di cena!Matteo, it is already dinner time!
- MatteoHai ragione, Giulia, ho molta fame.You're right, Giulia, I am very hungry.
- GiuliaPrepariamo subito la tavola.Let's set the table right away.
- MatteoVa bene, lo faccio io.Okay, I'll do it.
