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Ci vogliono almeno due ore perché la lavatrice finisca il ciclo.

Ci vogliono almeno due ore perché la lavatrice finisca il ciclo.
It takes at least two hours for the washing machine to finish its cycle.
FromLesson 11inHardcore Italian

Breakdown of Ci vogliono almeno due ore perché la lavatrice finisca il ciclo.

l'ora
the hour
finire
to finish
due
two
la lavatrice
the washing machine
ci vogliono
to take
almeno
at least
il ciclo
the cycle

Questions & Answers about Ci vogliono almeno due ore perché la lavatrice finisca il ciclo.

What does "ci vogliono" mean in this sentence?
It is an impersonal expression meaning "it takes" or "are needed". In this context, it tells us that a certain amount of time (at least two hours) is required for the washing machine to complete its cycle.
Why is the verb in "ci vogliono" in the plural form instead of "ci vuole"?
The plural verb "vogliono" is used because it agrees with the plural noun phrase "due ore" (two hours). If the time measurement were singular (for example, "un'ora"), the form "ci vuole" would be appropriate.
What role does "almeno due ore" play in the sentence?
"Almeno due ore" means "at least two hours" and specifies the minimum duration needed for the washing machine to finish its cycle.
Why is the verb "finisca" in the subjunctive mood in this sentence?
In this sentence, "finisca" is in the subjunctive because it is part of a subordinate purpose clause introduced by "perché" (meaning "so that" or "in order for"). The subjunctive is used here to express an intended or desired outcome—that the washing machine completes its cycle—which is not yet a completed fact at the time of speaking.
How does "perché" function in this sentence, and how is its meaning different from when it is translated as "because"?
Here, "perché" functions as a conjunction meaning "so that" or "in order for", introducing a clause that states the intended result. Although "perché" can also mean "because" when giving a reason, in this instance its use—with the subjunctive verb "finisca"—signals a purpose or objective rather than a simple causal explanation.
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