A guide to saying it like a local

How to Say "When" in Italian

The essential Italian word 'quando' for asking 'when' in any situation.

By PronunciationHub Editors · Reviewed 2026-05-21 · Neutral register

Quando

KWAN-dohneutral

A single phrase, broken down

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Use 'quando' when you need to inquire about the timing of an event, appointment, or action. For example, you might ask 'Quando parte il treno?' (When does the train leave?) or 'Quando ci vediamo?' (When shall we meet?).

Alternatives

A che oraUse when you specifically want to know the time of day.
In che momentoThis is a more formal or literary way to ask 'at what moment'.

Ways to get it wrong

Confusing with 'quanto'

'Quanto' means 'how much' or 'how many', not 'when'.

Incorrect stress

Make sure to stress the first syllable: KWAN-doh, not kwan-DOH.

Frequently asked

how to ask when something happens in italian

You can use 'Quando' followed by the verb. For example, 'Quando apre il negozio?' (When does the shop open?).

italian for when is the meeting

You would say 'Quando è la riunione?'. If you want to be more formal, you might ask 'Quando è fissata la riunione?' (When is the meeting scheduled?).

when to use quando vs quando mai

'Quando' is the direct translation of 'when'. 'Quando mai' is more emphatic, like 'when on earth' or 'whenever'.