finché

Finché is a subordinating conjunction in Italian that introduces clauses of time or condition and translates as “until” or “as long as.” It marks the limit of a duration or the condition under which another action occurs.

Etymology and form: Finché derives from Latin finis “end,” combined with the conjunctional element che. In modern Italian it is written as one word with the accent on è. Historically and in some regional uses, it can appear as fin che (two words).

Grammar and usage: The verb in the subordinate clause is usually in the indicative when the action is factual or habitual; the subjunctive can appear in more formal or literary styles to express hypothetical or contingent situations. Examples: Finché vivi, sogni. Aspetterò finché arrivi. Non partirò finché non avrai finito. Finché non arriva, restiamo qui.

Relationship to fino a: Finché emphasizes the limit of an ongoing action or a time frame, while fino a marks a precise endpoint in time or space without implying ongoing action. The two can be complementary but are not interchangeable in all contexts.

Common expressions and notes: Finché c’è vita, c’è speranza is a well-known proverb. In standard writing, finché is preferred to the older or dialectal two-word fin che. When the subordinate clause precedes the main clause, a comma is often used; when it follows, it may be omitted or placed according to rhythm and clarity.

Overall, finché is a versatile Italian connector for framing time limits or conditions that affect the main clause.