Posso ordinare?
In Italian, "can I order" is said as Posso ordinare?
This phrase is used as a request to ask a server if you are ready to purchase food or drinks.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of posso, which means "can" and ordinare, which means "to order".
Did you know?
- In some traditional Italian restaurants, the server may respond to Posso ordinare? by asking if you want a coperto, a cover charge for the table settings and bread.
- While Posso ordinare? is polite, you may hear locals say Siamo pronti, which literally means 'we are ready'.
- The verb ordinare shares its root with the English word 'order', but in Italian it also means 'to arrange' or 'to put in a sequence'.
Examples in context
- Posso fare un ordine di due margherite e una birra, per favore?Can I order two margherita pizzas and a beer, please?
- Posso ordinare?Can I order?
- Siamo pronti, posso ordinare?We are ready, can I order?
Example conversation
A customer is ready to order at a restaurant.
- SofiaCiao, posso ordinare?Hi, can I order?
- MatteoSì, certo. Cosa desidera?Yes, of course. What would you like?
- SofiaVorrei una pizza Margherita.I would like a Margherita pizza.
- MatteoOttima scelta, arrivo subito.Great choice, I'll be right back.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ordinare, CC BY-SA 4.0.
