Understanding how to ask “What do you mean?” in Italian is crucial for effective communication and comprehension. This phrase is essential for clarifying ambiguous statements, seeking further explanation, and ensuring accurate understanding in conversations.
Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, mastering the nuances of this phrase will significantly improve your ability to navigate Italian conversations with confidence. This article provides a detailed exploration of the various ways to express “What do you mean?” in Italian, along with examples, usage rules, common mistakes, and practice exercises.
It is designed to benefit anyone learning Italian, from students to travelers, and those simply interested in expanding their linguistic repertoire.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition of “What Do You Mean?”
- Structural Breakdown
- Types and Categories of Expressions
- Examples
- Usage Rules
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Definition of “What Do You Mean?”
The phrase “What do you mean?” is used to seek clarification or explanation when someone’s statement is unclear, ambiguous, or confusing. It signals a lack of understanding and invites the speaker to provide more detail or rephrase their message.
In Italian, this inquiry can be expressed in several ways, each carrying slightly different nuances and levels of formality. The choice of expression often depends on the context of the conversation, the relationship between the speakers, and the desired level of politeness.
Understanding these variations is crucial for effective communication.
Structural Breakdown
The basic structure of asking “What do you mean?” in Italian involves interrogative words (cosa, che, come), verbs (volere – to want, intendere – to mean, spiegare – to explain), and sometimes polite particles (prego). The verb conjugation must agree with the subject, and the word order can sometimes be adjusted for emphasis or formality. For example, “Cosa vuoi dire?” literally translates to “What do you want to say?” while “Che vuol dire?” translates to “What does it mean?”. The subtle differences in these structures contribute to the overall meaning and tone of the question.
Types and Categories of Expressions
There are several ways to ask “What do you mean?” in Italian. Each expression varies slightly in formality and context.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common phrases:
Cosa vuoi dire?
Cosa vuoi dire? is one of the most common and versatile ways to ask “What do you mean?” in Italian. It directly translates to “What do you want to say?” and is generally suitable for informal settings and conversations with friends, family, or colleagues you know well. The verb volere (to want) is conjugated in the second person singular (tu – you), making it appropriate for addressing someone directly and informally. However, using the formal “Lei” form is also possible.
Che vuol dire?
Che vuol dire? literally translates to “What does it mean?” This expression is used when you are unsure about the meaning of a specific word, phrase, or concept. It’s a more general inquiry compared to “Cosa vuoi dire?” and focuses on the meaning of something rather than the speaker’s intention. The verb volere (to want) is conjugated in the third person singular (lui/lei – he/she/it), indicating that the subject is the thing being referred to. This is a very common expression and useful in a variety of situations.
Cosa intendi? / Cosa vuole intendere?
Cosa intendi? translates to “What do you intend?” or “What do you mean?” and is a more direct way of asking for clarification. It’s similar to “Cosa vuoi dire?” but can sometimes imply a slightly stronger sense of curiosity or even skepticism. Cosa vuole intendere? is the formal version, using the Lei form, and is appropriate for use with people you don’t know well or in professional settings. The verb intendere (to intend) is used here, focusing on the speaker’s intention or purpose.
Come, prego?
Come, prego? literally translates to “How, please?” and is a polite way of asking someone to repeat themselves. While it doesn’t directly translate to “What do you mean?”, it’s often used in situations where you didn’t quite hear or understand what someone said, and you need them to clarify. The word come (how) functions as an interrogative adverb, and prego (please) adds a touch of politeness. This is especially useful when you are in a formal situation or want to show respect.
Mi spieghi?
Mi spieghi? translates to “Explain to me?” and is a direct but polite way to ask someone to elaborate on what they’ve said. It implies that you need a more detailed explanation to understand their meaning. The verb spiegare (to explain) is used in the imperative mood, and the pronoun mi (to me) indicates the recipient of the explanation. This expression is suitable for various situations, from casual conversations to more formal discussions.
Examples
To fully understand how to use these expressions, let’s look at some examples in different contexts.
Examples of “Cosa vuoi dire?”
This section provides 30 examples of the phrase “Cosa vuoi dire?” used in various contexts. Each example demonstrates how the phrase can be used to seek clarification in different situations.
| Italian | English Translation | Context |
|---|---|---|
| “Ho detto che forse non verrò alla festa.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Non ti piace?” | “I said I might not come to the party.” “What do you mean? You don’t like it?” | Expressing concern about someone’s attendance at a party. |
| “Penso che dovremmo cambiare strategia.” “Cosa vuoi dire esattamente?” | “I think we should change our strategy.” “What exactly do you mean?” | Discussing business strategy and seeking clarification. |
| “Non sono sicuro di essere d’accordo.” “Cosa vuoi dire con questo?” | “I’m not sure I agree.” “What do you mean by that?” | Expressing disagreement and asking for an explanation. |
| “Forse è meglio se ci separiamo.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Stai rompendo con me?” | “Maybe it’s better if we separate.” “What do you mean? Are you breaking up with me?” | Reacting to a surprising statement in a relationship. |
| “Ho pensato a una soluzione.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Quale soluzione?” | “I’ve thought of a solution.” “What do you mean? Which solution?” | Showing interest in a proposed solution. |
| “Non credo che funzionerà.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Perché no?” | “I don’t think it will work.” “What do you mean? Why not?” | Expressing doubt and seeking reasons for the skepticism. |
| “È complicato.” “Cosa vuoi dire con ‘complicato’?” | “It’s complicated.” “What do you mean by ‘complicated’?” | Asking for a more detailed explanation of a vague statement. |
| “Dobbiamo parlare.” “Cosa vuoi dire? È successo qualcosa?” | “We need to talk.” “What do you mean? Did something happen?” | Reacting to a serious announcement with concern. |
| “Non sono sicuro di potercela fare.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Non ti fidi di te stesso?” | “I’m not sure I can do it.” “What do you mean? Don’t you trust yourself?” | Expressing concern about someone’s self-confidence. |
| “Ho bisogno di spazio.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Dove vuoi andare?” | “I need space.” “What do you mean? Where do you want to go?” | Reacting to a request for personal space in a relationship. |
| “Penso che sia meglio così.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Meglio per chi?” | “I think it’s better this way.” “What do you mean? Better for whom?” | Questioning the benefit of a decision. |
| “Non sono contento del risultato.” “Cosa vuoi dire esattamente? Cosa non ti piace?” | “I’m not happy with the result.” “What exactly do you mean? What don’t you like?” | Seeking specific feedback on a result. |
| “Forse è un errore.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Un errore di chi?” | “Maybe it’s a mistake.” “What do you mean? Whose mistake?” | Investigating the nature of a potential mistake. |
| “Non sono sicuro di voler continuare.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Stai pensando di smettere?” | “I’m not sure I want to continue.” “What do you mean? Are you thinking of quitting?” | Reacting to an expression of uncertainty. |
| “Ho un’idea diversa.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Qual è la tua idea?” | “I have a different idea.” “What do you mean? What’s your idea?” | Showing interest in an alternative idea. |
| “Non sono sicuro che sia una buona idea.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Perché non lo è?” | “I’m not sure it’s a good idea.” “What do you mean? Why isn’t it?” | Expressing doubt about an idea. |
| “Ho bisogno di tempo.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Quanto tempo ti serve?” | “I need time.” “What do you mean? How much time do you need?” | Seeking clarification on a time-related request. |
| “Non sono sicuro di poterti aiutare.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Non vuoi aiutarmi?” | “I’m not sure I can help you.” “What do you mean? Don’t you want to help me?” | Reacting to a reluctance to help. |
| “Forse è meglio se ci pensi.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Devo ripensarci?” | “Maybe it’s better if you think about it.” “What do you mean? Do I need to rethink it?” | Suggesting further consideration. |
| “Non sono sicuro di essere pronto.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Pronto per cosa?” | “I’m not sure I’m ready.” “What do you mean? Ready for what?” | Seeking clarification on a state of readiness. |
| “Ho un segreto.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Raccontami!” | “I have a secret.” “What do you mean? Tell me!” | Expressing curiosity about a secret. |
| “Non sono sicuro di essere la persona giusta.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Chi sarebbe la persona giusta?” | “I’m not sure I’m the right person.” “What do you mean? Who would be the right person?” | Questioning someone’s suitability for a task. |
| “Ho bisogno di una pausa.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Una pausa da cosa?” | “I need a break.” “What do you mean? A break from what?” | Seeking clarification on the need for a break. |
| “Non sono sicuro di essere in grado di farlo.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Non hai le capacità?” | “I’m not sure I’m able to do it.” “What do you mean? Don’t you have the skills?” | Expressing doubt about someone’s ability. |
| “Ho bisogno di un consiglio.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Su cosa hai bisogno di consiglio?” | “I need advice.” “What do you mean? What do you need advice on?” | Seeking clarification on the type of advice needed. |
| “Non sono sicuro di essere nel posto giusto.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Dove vorresti essere?” | “I’m not sure I’m in the right place.” “What do you mean? Where would you like to be?” | Expressing uncertainty about one’s location. |
| “Ho bisogno di un cambiamento.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Che tipo di cambiamento?” | “I need a change.” “What do you mean? What kind of change?” | Seeking clarification on the type of change needed. |
| “Non sono sicuro di essere felice.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Cosa ti renderebbe felice?” | “I’m not sure I’m happy.” “What do you mean? What would make you happy?” | Expressing concern about someone’s happiness. |
| “Ho bisogno di una risposta.” “Cosa vuoi dire? A quale domanda?” | “I need an answer.” “What do you mean? To which question?” | Seeking clarification on the question that needs answering. |
| “Non sono sicuro di essere pronto per questo.” “Cosa vuoi dire? Per cosa non sei pronto?” | “I’m not sure I’m ready for this.” “What do you mean? What aren’t you ready for?” | Expressing uncertainty about readiness. |
Examples of “Che vuol dire?”
This section features 30 examples of the phrase “Che vuol dire?” used in different contexts. The examples illustrate how the phrase is used to ask for the meaning of a word or concept.
| Italian | English Translation | Context |
|---|---|---|
| “Che vuol dire ‘paradigma’?” | “What does ‘paradigm’ mean?” | Asking for the definition of a specific word. |
| “Hai detto ‘flusso di cassa’. Che vuol dire?” | “You said ‘cash flow’. What does it mean?” | Seeking clarification on a financial term. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘dolce far niente’?” | “What does ‘dolce far niente’ mean?” | Asking for the meaning of an Italian expression. |
| “Che vuol dire questo simbolo?” | “What does this symbol mean?” | Seeking the meaning of a symbol. |
| “Che vuol dire quando il dottore dice ‘prognosi’?” | “What does it mean when the doctor says ‘prognosis’?” | Asking for the meaning of a medical term. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘essere resiliente’?” | “What does ‘being resilient’ mean?” | Asking for the definition of a personality trait. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘effetto serra’?” | “What does ‘greenhouse effect’ mean?” | Seeking clarification on an environmental term. |
| “Che vuol dire quando dicono ‘è un’arma a doppio taglio’?” | “What does it mean when they say ‘it’s a double-edged sword’?” | Asking for the meaning of an idiom. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘essere proattivo’?” | “What does ‘being proactive’ mean?” | Seeking clarification on a professional skill. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘algoritmo’?” | “What does ‘algorithm’ mean?” | Asking for the definition of a technical term. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘cambiamento climatico’?” | “What does ‘climate change’ mean?” | Seeking clarification on an environmental issue. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘essere empatico’?” | “What does ‘being empathetic’ mean?” | Asking for the definition of a social skill. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘globalizzazione’?” | “What does ‘globalization’ mean?” | Seeking clarification on an economic term. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘essere sostenibile’?” | “What does ‘being sustainable’ mean?” | Asking for the definition of an environmental term. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘intelligenza artificiale’?” | “What does ‘artificial intelligence’ mean?” | Seeking clarification on a technological term. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘essere multitasking’?” | “What does ‘being multitasking’ mean?” | Asking for the definition of a professional skill. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘energia rinnovabile’?” | “What does ‘renewable energy’ mean?” | Seeking clarification on an environmental term. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘essere innovativo’?” | “What does ‘being innovative’ mean?” | Asking for the definition of a professional skill. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘big data’?” | “What does ‘big data’ mean?” | Seeking clarification on a technological term. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘essere efficiente’?” | “What does ‘being efficient’ mean?” | Asking for the definition of a professional skill. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘realtà virtuale’?” | “What does ‘virtual reality’ mean?” | Seeking clarification on a technological term. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘essere collaborativo’?” | “What does ‘being collaborative’ mean?” | Asking for the definition of a social skill. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘pensiero critico’?” | “What does ‘critical thinking’ mean?” | Seeking clarification on a cognitive skill. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘essere resiliente’ in questo contesto?” | “What does ‘being resilient’ mean in this context?” | Asking for the meaning of a term in a specific situation. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘sostenibilità ambientale’?” | “What does ‘environmental sustainability’ mean?” | Seeking clarification on an environmental concept. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘essere adattabile’?” | “What does ‘being adaptable’ mean?” | Asking for the definition of a personality trait. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘digitalizzazione’?” | “What does ‘digitalization’ mean?” | Seeking clarification on a technological trend. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘essere flessibile’?” | “What does ‘being flexible’ mean?” | Asking for the definition of a professional skill. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘startup’?” | “What does ‘startup’ mean?” | Seeking clarification on a business term. |
| “Che vuol dire ‘essere intraprendente’?” | “What does ‘being enterprising’ mean?” | Asking for the definition of a personality trait. |
Examples of “Cosa intendi?”
This section offers 30 examples of the phrase “Cosa intendi?” in various scenarios. The examples illustrate how to use the phrase to seek clarification on someone’s intentions or meaning.
| Italian | English Translation | Context |
|---|---|---|
| “Dovremmo fare qualcosa di diverso.” “Cosa intendi? Come diverso?” | “We should do something different.” “What do you mean? How different?” | Seeking clarification on a suggestion for change. |
| “Ho bisogno di un cambiamento.” “Cosa intendi? Vuoi cambiare lavoro?” | “I need a change.” “What do you mean? Do you want to change jobs?” | Asking about the specific nature of a desired change. |
| “Penso che dovremmo essere più audaci.” “Cosa intendi con ‘audaci’?” | “I think we should be more bold.” “What do you mean by ‘bold’?” | Seeking clarification on a vague suggestion. |
| “Forse è meglio se lo dimentichi.” “Cosa intendi? Dimenticare cosa?” | “Maybe it’s better if you forget it.” “What do you mean? Forget what?” | Asking for clarification on a suggestion to forget something. |
| “Non sono sicuro che sia la scelta giusta.” “Cosa intendi? Qual è la scelta sbagliata?” | “I’m not sure it’s the right choice.” “What do you mean? What’s the wrong choice?” | Expressing doubt about a decision. |
| “Dobbiamo essere più flessibili.” “Cosa intendi con ‘flessibili’?” | “We need to be more flexible.” “What do you mean by ‘flexible’?” | Seeking clarification on a suggestion for adaptability. |
| “Ho bisogno di più tempo.” “Cosa intendi? Più tempo per cosa?” | “I need more time.” “What do you mean? More time for what?” | Asking for clarification on a time-related request. |
| “Forse dovremmo ripensarci.” “Cosa intendi? Ripensarci su cosa?” | “Maybe we should rethink it.” “What do you mean? Rethink what?” | Suggesting a reevaluation of a decision. |
| “Non sono sicuro di essere all’altezza.” “Cosa intendi? All’altezza di cosa?” | “I’m not sure I’m up to it.” “What do you mean? Up to what?” | Expressing doubt about one’s capabilities. |
| “Dobbiamo essere più creativi.” “Cosa intendi con ‘creativi’?” | “We need to be more creative.” “What do you mean by ‘creative’?” | Seeking clarification on a suggestion for innovation. |
| “Ho bisogno di più spazio.” “Cosa intendi? Spazio per cosa?” | “I need more space.” “What do you mean? Space for what?” | Asking for clarification on a request for personal space. |
| “Forse dovremmo essere più cauti.” “Cosa intendi con ‘cauti’?” | “Maybe we should be more cautious.” “What do you mean by ‘cautious’?” | Suggesting a more careful approach. |
| “Non sono sicuro di essere pronto per questo.” “Cosa intendi? Pronto per cosa?” | “I’m not sure I’m ready for this.” “What do you mean? Ready for what?” | Expressing doubt about one’s readiness. |
| “Dobbiamo essere più efficienti.” “Cosa intendi con ‘efficienti’?” | “We need to be more efficient.” “What do you mean by ‘efficient’?” | Seeking clarification on a suggestion for productivity. |
| “Ho bisogno di più supporto.” “Cosa intendi? Supporto per cosa?” | “I need more support.” “What do you mean? Support for what?” | Asking for clarification on a request for assistance. |
| “Forse dovremmo essere più pazienti.” “Cosa intendi con ‘pazienti’?” | “Maybe we should be more patient.” “What do you mean by ‘patient’?” | Suggesting a more tolerant approach. |
| “Non sono sicuro di essere la persona giusta.” “Cosa intendi? Giusta per cosa?” | “I’m not sure I’m the right person.” “What do you mean? Right for what?” | Expressing doubt about one’s suitability. |
| “Dobbiamo essere più organizzati.” “Cosa intendi con ‘organizzati’?” | “We need to be more organized.” “What do you mean by ‘organized’?” | Seeking clarification on a suggestion for structure. |
| “Ho bisogno di più chiarezza.” “Cosa intendi? Chiarezza su cosa?” | “I need more clarity.” “What do you mean? Clarity on what?” | Asking for clarification on a request for understanding. |
| “Forse dovremmo essere più ottimisti.” “Cosa intendi con ‘ottimisti’?” | “Maybe we should be more optimistic.” “What do you mean by ‘optimistic’?” | Suggesting a more positive outlook. |
| “Non sono sicuro di essere in grado di farlo.” “Cosa intendi? In grado di fare cosa?” | “I’m not sure I’m able to do it.” “What do you mean? Able to do what?” | Expressing doubt about one’s ability. |
| “Dobbiamo essere più proattivi.” “Cosa intendi con ‘proattivi’?” | “We need to be more proactive.” “What do you mean by ‘proactive’?” | Seeking clarification on a suggestion for initiative. |
| “Ho bisogno di più tempo per pensarci.” “Cosa intendi? Pensarci su cosa?” | “I need more time to think about it.” “What do you mean? Think about what?” | Asking for clarification on a request for more time. |
| “Forse dovremmo essere più realistici.” “Cosa intendi con ‘realistici’?” | “Maybe we should be more realistic.” “What do you mean by ‘realistic’?” | Suggesting a more practical approach. |
| “Non sono sicuro di essere nel posto giusto.” “Cosa intendi? Posto giusto per cosa?” | “I’m not sure I’m in the right place.” “What do you mean? Right place for what?” | Expressing doubt about one’s location. |
| “Dobbiamo essere più trasparenti.” “Cosa intendi con ‘trasparenti’?” | “We need to be more transparent.” “What do you mean by ‘transparent’?” | Seeking clarification on a suggestion for openness. |
| “Ho bisogno di più informazioni.” “Cosa intendi? Informazioni su cosa?” | “I need more information.” “What do you mean? Information about what?” | Asking for clarification on a request for details. |
| “Forse dovremmo essere più comprensivi.” “Cosa intendi con ‘comprensivi’?” | “Maybe we should be more understanding.” “What do you mean by ‘understanding’?” | Suggesting a more empathetic approach. |
| “Non sono sicuro di essere pronto a farlo.” “Cosa intendi? Pronto a fare cosa?” | “I’m not sure I’m ready to do it.” “What do you mean? Ready to do what?” | Expressing doubt about one’s readiness to act. |
| “Dobbiamo essere più responsabili.” “Cosa intendi con ‘responsabili’?” | “We need to be more responsible.” “What do you mean by ‘responsible’?” | Seeking clarification on a suggestion for accountability. |
Examples of “Come, prego?”
This section includes 20 examples of “Come, prego?” used in various situations. These examples show how to politely ask someone to repeat themselves.
| Italian | English Translation | Context | |
|---|---|---|---|
| “Ho detto che…” “Come, prego?” | “I said that…” “Come again, please?” | Asking someone to repeat what they said. | |
| “Ci vediamo domani.” “Come, prego? Non ho sentito bene.” | “See you tomorrow.” “Excuse me? I didn’t hear you well.” | Asking for repetition due to not hearing clearly. | |
| “Il treno parte alle otto.” “Come, prego? A che ora parte?” | “The train leaves at eight.” “Excuse me? What time does it leave?” | Seeking clarification on a specific detail. | |
| “Ho prenotato un tavolo per due.” “Come, prego? Per quante persone?” | “I booked a table for two.” “Excuse me? For how many people?” | Confirming information about a reservation. | |
| “Costa venti euro.” “Come, prego? Quanto costa?” | “It costs twenty euros.” “Excuse me? How much does it cost?” | Verifying the price of something. | |
| “Ho finito il lavoro.” “Come, prego? Hai detto finito?” | “I finished the work.” “Excuse me? Did you say finished?” | Confirming that someone has completed a task. | |
| “Sono andato al mercato.” “Come, prego? Dove sei andato?” | “I went to the market.” “Excuse me? Where did you go?” | Asking for repetition of a destination. | |
| “Ho comprato una macchina nuova.” “Come, prego? Cosa hai comprato?” | “I bought a new car.” “Excuse me? What did you buy?” | Seeking clarification on a purchase. | |
| “Ho perso il treno.” “Come, prego? Hai perso cosa?” | “I missed the train.” “Excuse me? You missed what?” | Asking for repetition of what was missed. | |
| “Ho visto un film bellissimo.” “Come, prego? Che film hai visto?” | “I saw a beautiful movie.” “Excuse me? Which movie did you see?” | Seeking clarification on a movie title. | |
| “Ho detto che forse pioverà.” “Come, prego? Pioverà quando?” | “I said it might rain.” “Excuse me? It will rain when?” | Seeking clarification on a weather forecast. | |
| “Ho bisogno di aiuto con questo.” “Come, prego? Con cosa hai bisogno di aiuto?” | “I need help with this.” “Excuse me? What do you need help with?” | Asking for specifics about assistance needed. | |
| “Ho dimenticato il mio portafoglio.” “Come, prego? Cosa hai dimenticato?” | “I forgot my wallet.” “Excuse me? What did you forget?” | Seeking confirmation of a forgotten item. | |
| “Sono stanco oggi.” “Come, prego? Cosa hai detto?” | “I’m tired today.” “Excuse me? What did you say?” | Asking for repetition due to mumbling. | |
| “Ho mangiato la pizza.” “Come, prego? Cosa hai mangiato?” | “I ate pizza.” “Excuse me? What did you eat?” | Confirming what someone had for a meal. | |
| “Vado in vacanza.” “Come, prego? Dove vai?” | “I’m going on vacation.” “Excuse me? Where are you going?” | Seeking clarification on vacation plans. | |
| “Ho un appuntamento.” “Come, prego? Che tipo di appuntamento?” | “I have an appointment.” “Excuse me? What kind of appointment?” | Asking for details about a scheduled event. | |
| “Ho bisogno di un favore.” “Come, prego? Cosa ti serve?” | “I need a favor.” “Excuse me? What do you need?” | Offering assistance after a request for a favor. | |
| “Ho cambiato idea.” “Come, prego? Cosa hai cambiato?” | “I changed my mind.” “Excuse me? What did you change?” | Seeking clarification on a change of decision. | |
| “Sono in ritardo.” “Come, prego? Di quanto sei in ritardo?” | “I’m late.” “Excuse me? How late are you?” | Asking for details about tardiness. |
Examples of “Mi spieghi?”
This section includes 20 examples of the phrase “Mi spieghi?” used in various contexts. These examples demonstrate how to politely ask someone to explain something in more detail.
| Italian | English Translation | Context |
|---|---|---|
| “Non capisco questo concetto. Mi spieghi?” | “I don’t understand this concept. Can you explain it to me?” | Seeking clarification on a difficult concept. |
| “Come funziona questa macchina? Mi spieghi?” | “How does this machine work? Can you explain it to me?” | Asking for instructions on how to use a device. |
| “Perché hai preso questa decisione? Mi spieghi?” | “Why did you make this decision? Can you explain it to me?” | Seeking the reasoning behind a decision. |
| “Cosa devo fare adesso? Mi spieghi?” | “What should I do now? Can you explain it to me?” | Asking for guidance on the next steps. |
| “Come hai risolto questo problema? Mi spieghi?” | “How did you solve this problem? Can you explain it to me?” | Seeking insight into a problem-solving method. |
| “Perché è successo questo? Mi spieghi?” | “Why did this happen? Can you explain it to me?” | Seeking an explanation for an event. |
| “Come hai fatto a imparare così velocemente? Mi spieghi?” | “How did you learn so quickly? Can you explain it to me?” | Asking for tips on learning efficiently. |
| “Cosa significa questa parola? Mi spieghi?” | “What does this word mean? Can you explain it to me?” | Seeking the definition of a word. |
| “Come hai organizzato questo evento? Mi spieghi?” | “How did you organize this event? Can you explain it to me?” | Asking for details about event planning. |
| “Perché hai scelto questa opzione? Mi spieghi?” | “Why did you choose this option? Can you explain it to me?” | Seeking the reasons for a particular choice. |
| “Come hai superato questa difficoltà? Mi spieghi?” | “How did you overcome this difficulty? Can you explain it to me?” | Asking for strategies to overcome challenges. |
| “Cosa devo fare per migliorare? Mi spieghi?” | “What should I do to improve? Can you explain it to me?” | Seeking advice on personal development. |
| “Come funziona questo programma? Mi spieghi?” | “How does this program work? Can you explain it to me?” | Asking for instructions on how to use software. |
| “Perché hai cambiato idea? Mi spieghi?” | “Why did you change your mind? Can you explain it to me?” | Seeking the reasons for a change of opinion. |
| “Cosa devo fare per avere successo? Mi spieghi?” | “What should I do to be successful? Can you explain it to me?” | Seeking advice on achieving success. |
| “Come hai imparato a cucinare così bene? Mi spieghi?” | “How did you learn to cook so well? Can you explain it to me?” | Asking for tips on culinary skills. |
| “Perché hai scelto di studiare questa materia? Mi spieghi?” | “Why did you choose to study this subject? Can you explain it to me?” | Seeking the reasons for choosing a field of study. |
| “Cosa devo fare per risolvere questo problema? Mi spieghi?” | “What should I do to solve this problem? Can you explain it to me?” | Seeking guidance on problem-solving strategies. |
| “Come hai fatto a ottenere questo risultato? Mi spieghi?” | “How did you achieve this result? Can you explain it to me?” | Asking for details on achieving a specific outcome. |
| “Perché hai deciso di trasferirti qui? Mi spieghi?” | “Why did you decide to move here? Can you explain it to me?” | Seeking the reasons for relocating. |
Usage Rules
Understanding the proper usage of these phrases involves considering the context, your relationship with the speaker, and the level of formality required. Here are some general guidelines:
- “Cosa vuoi dire?”: Use in informal settings with people you know well.
- “Che vuol dire?”: Use when asking for the definition of a word or concept, suitable for both formal and informal situations.
- “Cosa intendi?”: Use when seeking clarification on someone’s intentions, slightly more direct than “Cosa vuoi dire?”. Use “Cosa vuole intendere?” in formal settings.
- “Come, prego?”: Use when you didn’t hear or understand something and need the speaker to repeat themselves, always polite.
- “Mi spieghi?”: Use when you need a more detailed explanation, suitable for various situations but always polite.
Common Mistakes
When learning to use these phrases, some common mistakes can occur. Being aware of these pitfalls can help you avoid them:
- Using “Cosa vuoi dire?” in formal settings: This can be seen as too informal. Opt for “Cosa vuole intendere?” instead.
- Confusing “Che vuol dire?” with “Cosa vuoi dire?”: Remember that “Che vuol dire?” is for definitions, while “Cosa vuoi dire?” is for intentions.
- Overusing “Come, prego?”: If you frequently ask someone to repeat themselves, it might be better to ask them to speak more clearly.
- Being impolite with “Mi spieghi?”: Always use a polite tone when asking someone to explain something.
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding with these practice exercises. Fill in the blanks with the appropriate phrase:
1. “Ho detto che forse non verrò.” “__________?
Non ti piace la festa?”
Answer: Cosa vuoi dire?
2. “__________ ‘resilienza’?”
Answer: Che vuol dire?
3. “Dobbiamo cambiare strategia.” “__________ esattamente?”
Answer: Cosa intendi?
4. “Ho detto che partirò domani.” “__________?
Scusa, non ho sentito.”
Answer: Come, prego?
5. “Non capisco come funziona.” “__________? È molto semplice.”
Answer: Mi spieghi?
Advanced Topics
For more advanced learners, consider exploring these related topics:
- Subjunctive Mood: Using the subjunctive mood to express doubt or uncertainty when asking for clarification.
- Indirect Questions: Framing your questions indirectly for added politeness.
- Regional Variations: Exploring how these phrases might differ in various Italian-speaking regions.
FAQ
Is “Cosa intendi dire?” also correct?
Yes, “Cosa intendi dire?” is also correct and very similar in meaning to “Cosa vuoi dire?” and “Cosa intendi?”.
When should I use “Lei” form?
Use the “Lei” form (e.g., “Cosa vuole intendere?”) in formal settings or when addressing someone you don’t know well to show respect.
Are there any slang terms for “What do you mean?”
While the phrases discussed are standard, slang terms may exist but are highly regional and context-dependent. It’s best to stick to the standard phrases unless you’re very familiar with the local dialect.
Conclusion
Mastering the various ways to ask “What do you mean?” in Italian is essential for effective communication and understanding. By understanding the nuances of phrases like “Cosa vuoi dire?”, “Che vuol dire?”, “Cosa intendi?”, “Come, prego?”, and “Mi spieghi?”, you can navigate conversations with confidence and ensure accurate comprehension.
Remember to consider the context, your relationship with the speaker, and the level of formality required when choosing the appropriate expression. With practice and attention to detail, you’ll be well-equipped to clarify any ambiguous statements and engage in meaningful conversations in Italian.