A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "In the afternoon" in Italian
Use 'nel pomeriggio' for 'in the afternoon' to talk about activities from lunchtime until evening.
nel pomeriggio
nel poh-meh-REE-johneutral
Italian TTS · 0:01
This phrase covers the period after lunch until sunset. You might say 'Ci vediamo nel pomeriggio' (See you in the afternoon) or 'Ho un appuntamento nel pomeriggio' (I have an appointment in the afternoon).
Alternatives
- al pomeriggioLess common, sometimes used in certain regions or older speech.
- dopo pranzoSpecifically means 'after lunch' and can overlap with the early afternoon.
Ways to get it wrong
Confusing 'pomeriggio' with 'morning'
'Mattina' means morning; 'pomeriggio' is strictly afternoon.
Incorrect preposition
Always use 'nel' or 'al' before 'pomeriggio', never just 'pomeriggio' alone.
A small cultural note
The afternoon in Italy can be a time for a siesta or a slower pace, especially in warmer months or smaller towns, though this is less common in big cities during the work week.
Frequently asked
What time is 'pomeriggio' in Italy?
Generally, 'pomeriggio' starts after lunch, around 1 PM or 2 PM, and lasts until sunset or around 6 PM or 7 PM.
Can I use 'nel pomeriggio' for evening?
No, 'nel pomeriggio' is for the afternoon. For evening, you would use 'la sera'.
Is 'nel pomeriggio' formal or informal?
'Nel pomeriggio' is a neutral phrase that fits both casual and more formal conversations.
