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PhrasesAt a PartyA che ora finisce di solito?
A2informal

A che ora finisce di solito?

What time does it usually finish?

Pronunciation

'Finisce' = fi-NI-sce. 'Solito' = SO-li-to, stress on first syllable.

When to use it

Ask this when you are planning your evening or need to know logistics. It also opens a conversation about the typical pattern of this host's parties. Italian parties often run much later than expected, so the answer may surprise you.

What it means

'Di solito' (usually) is a key Italian adverbial phrase for habits and routines. 'A che ora' (at what time) is the standard time question. 'Finisce' uses the third-person singular of 'finire' — an -ire verb that conjugates irregularly by inserting '-isc-'.

Variations

Si va avanti fino a tardi?

Does it go on until late?

Less specific — asking about general lateness

Le sue feste di solito vanno per le lunghe.

His parties usually go on for a long time.

Statement about the host's typical pattern

Ho l'ultimo treno all'una. Ce la faccio?

I have the last train at one. Will I make it?

Practical timing concern — very relatable

Mini Dialogue

— A che ora finisce di solito? — Con Marco? Non prima delle tre di notte! — Tre? Che resistenza! — Sì! Ma ne vale la pena. Di solito le ultime ore sono le migliori.

— What time does it usually finish? — With Marco? Not before three in the morning! — Three? What stamina! — Yes! But it is worth it. Usually the last hours are the best ones.

Cultural Note

Italian parties are famously long — a typical dinner party or social gathering may start at 8 or 9 pm and end at 2 or 3 am. This is especially true in southern Italy and in the summer months. Leaving early ('andarsene presto') before midnight is sometimes considered slightly impolite unless you have a genuine reason.