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PhrasesCancelling PlansMi sono addormentato/a sul divano.
A2informal

Mi sono addormentato/a sul divano.

I fell asleep on the sofa.

Pronunciation

'Addormentato' — ad-dor-men-TA-to. Five syllables, stress on the fourth. Double 'd' is clear.

When to use it

Use with very close friends after missing plans due to accidentally falling asleep. This only works with people who know you well — it's disarmingly honest and usually generates laughter rather than anger.

What it means

'Mi sono addormentato/a' is the passato prossimo of 'addormentarsi' (to fall asleep). 'Sul divano' (on the sofa) adds the specific, relatable detail that makes this excuse both believable and endearing.

Variations

Mi sono appisolato/a.

I dozed off.

'Appisolato/a' — fell into a light sleep. Very colloquial and affectionate

Ho dormito come un sasso.

I slept like a rock.

'Come un sasso' (like a stone) — Italian equivalent of 'sleeping like a log'

Il pisolino è diventato una dormita.

The nap turned into a long sleep.

'Pisolino' (little nap) is charming — implies innocence. The contrast is funny.

Mini Dialogue

— Dove eri ieri sera?! — Mi sono addormentata sul divano alle sei e mi sono svegliata a mezzanotte. — Ma dai! E il telefono? — Silenziato. Non ho sentito niente. Mi dispiace!

— Where were you yesterday evening?! — I fell asleep on the sofa at six and woke up at midnight. — Come on! And your phone? — Silenced. I didn't hear anything. I'm sorry!

Cultural Note

The 'pisolino' (afternoon nap) is a beloved Italian tradition, especially in smaller towns where shops close for a few hours in the afternoon. Unexpectedly sleeping through evening plans is a faux pas met with exasperated laughter among close friends.