vieni a tavola a mangiare
The English phrase "come to the table and eat" is expressed in Italian as vieni a tavola a mangiare.
This phrase is used as a request or command for someone to join others at the dining table for a meal. The verb venire used in this expression means "to come".
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, vieni a tavola a mangiare translates to "come to the table to eat", where a mangiare functions as a purpose clause.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb must change depending on who you are addressing. While vieni is used for a single person, you must change the verb to venite if you are addressing more than one person (e.g., venite a tavola a mangiare). To address a single person politely, change vieni to venga (e.g., venga a tavola a mangiare).
When do people say it?
In a typical household setting, Italians often shorten the command to just A tavola! to signal that a meal is ready.
Did you know?
Examples in context
- Vieni a tavola a mangiare, è pronto!Come to the table and eat, it's ready!
- Dai, vieni a tavola a mangiare con noi.Come on, come to the table and eat with us.
- Vieni a tavola a mangiare prima che si raffreddi.Come to the table and eat before it gets cold.
Example conversation
Francesco calls his daughter Chiara for dinner.
- FrancescoChiara, vieni a tavola a mangiare!Chiara, come to the table and eat!
- ChiaraArrivo subito, papà!I'm coming right now, dad!
- FrancescoLa pasta è caldissima.The pasta is very hot.
- ChiaraGrazie, arrivo!Thanks, I'm coming!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries a, mangiare, tavola, CC BY-SA 4.0.
