Crossing space and time in Italian
In learning the Italian language, one of the most common challenges for foreign students is the correct use of prepositions.
The two prepositions DA and A are used when it comes to indicating distances, both in space and in time.
In this article, we will explore the differences in usage of these two prepositions and their combined use, offering a practical guide to using them correctly.
Use of the preposition DA in space and time in Italian
The preposition DA is mainly used to indicate:
1. Place of origin
DA is used to indicate origin, a starting point in space.
2. Indicate elapsed time
DA is used to indicate the beginning of an action that continues until the present moment.
Use of the preposition A in space and time in Italian
The preposition A, instead, is mainly used to indicate:
1. Destination
When indicating the point of arrival in space.
2. Expressing a specific point in time
We use A to indicate a point in time or a specific time.
Combination DA… A to express distance of space and time in Italian
It is possible to combine DA… A to indicate a precise distance in space or time, using simple or articulated prepositions.
In space:
Da…a: indicates the starting point and the point of arrival in space.
In time:
Da… a: indicates the beginning and the end of an action or state in time.
How long does it take?
To express the time needed to do something, the following expressions are used:
ci vuole + singolare
ci vogliono + plurale
Let’s see an example:
Quanto (tempo) ci vuole per arrivare a casa tua?
Conclusions
Remember that DA indicates origin and starting point, both in space and in time, while A indicates destination and arrival point, as well as specific points in time.
Practising with examples will help master the correct use of these two important Italian prepositions.