Are you waiting for someone?
'Aspettando' = as-pet-TAN-do. The gerund ending '-ando' is always stressed on the 'a'.
Use when someone appears to be alone and waiting — at a bar, a party, or an event. It's a friendly, non-intrusive opener that checks in on them and naturally opens a conversation.
The stare + gerund construction expresses an action in progress — 'you are waiting.' 'Qualcuno' means 'someone.' This question is both practical and social: it checks whether the person is available to talk without being direct about your intention.
Sei da solo/a?
Are you alone?
More direct — can feel intrusive if tone is wrong. Use with a friendly smile.
Aspetti qualcuno?
Are you waiting for someone?
Present tense version — equally correct and slightly more formal.
Posso farti compagnia?
Can I keep you company?
Bolder move — use only if the conversation has already started well.
Being late ('il ritardo') is a culturally acknowledged feature of Italian social life, joked about openly. Arriving 10-15 minutes late to a casual social event is often completely normal and accepted.