How to read 3:05 on an analog clock
At 3:05, the minute hand points at the 1, which represents the 5th minute. The hour hand is between the 3 and the 4, but closer to the 3. This means we are 5 minutes past three o’clock.
In English, when the minute hand is on the 1, we say phrases like: It’s 5 past 3.
It’s five past three.
This is a common way of expressing time in spoken English. These expressions sound more natural in everyday conversation.
It’s important to understand that we often refer to the next hour when using “to”, even if the hour hand hasn’t reached it yet.
Example sentences with 3:05
- We usually go for a walk around 3:05.
- Don’t forget our call is scheduled for it’s five past three!
- They left the house at it’s five past three. to catch the train.
- My alarm goes off at 3:05 every morning.
- Her dance class begins precisely at 3:05.