vespro
The English phrase "vesper" is translated into Italian as vespro.
The term refers to the service of evening prayers in the Christian church. In religious contexts, a formal way to refer to this service is through the term Vespero.
Which one should you use?
Vespero is used specifically in formal religious contexts. To talk about the time of day, use Sera for evening or Serata when referring to an enjoyable evening spent with friends or family.
How does it change in a sentence?
vespro is the singular form used to denote an evening prayer. The plural form is vesperi, used for evening prayers. If you need an adjective relating to this service, use vesperale.
Did you know?
- In Italian history, the Vespri Siciliani refers to a famous 13th century rebellion in Sicily that began during the ringing of the vespro bells.
- The Italian word vespro is a linguistic relative of ovest, the word for 'west'. Both derive from the Latin root for evening, as the sun sets in the west.
- Historically, the vespro was often marked by the ringing of church bells to signal the end of the working day for peasants in the fields.
Examples in context
- La messa vespertina si tiene nella chiesa ogni sabato sera.The evening mass is held in the church every Saturday evening.
Example conversation
Martina and Francesco are talking about their evening plans.
- MartinaVuoi venire al vespro con me?Do you want to come to the vespers with me?
- FrancescoSì, a che ora comincia il vespro?Yes, what time does the vespers service start?
- MartinaComincia tra mezz'ora, Francesco.It starts in half an hour, Francesco.
- FrancescoPerfetto, ci vediamo lì.Perfect, I'll see you there.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries vespro, CC BY-SA 4.0.
