dai un'occhiata
To have a look in Italian is dai un'occhiata.
The phrase is used when you want to direct one's gaze at something or to perform a brief examination. This applies to both a quick glance and a slightly more thorough but brief inspection of an object or situation.
Which one should you use?
The form Guarda is a simple, informal way to say "look", whereas dai un'occhiata specifically captures the sense of "having a look".
How does it change in a sentence?
The default form dai un'occhiata uses the informal singular imperative of the verb dare. When addressing someone you do not know well or in a formal setting, use the polite form dia un'occhiata. If you are addressing more than one person, use the plural imperative date un'occhiata. The infinitive form of the phrase is dare un'occhiata.
Did you know?
- If someone gives you a 'look' of disapproval or flirtation, Italians use lanciare un'occhiata, which literally means 'to throw a glance'.
- While dai un'occhiata is for glancing, the word occhiata can also describe a hostile or menacing glare depending on the context.
- While English uses the verb 'have' for this expression, Italian uses dare, meaning 'to give'. This reflects a common pattern where Italian 'gives' what English 'has' or 'takes'.
Examples in context
- Dai un'occhiata in giro.Have a look around.This sentence shows how to use dai un'occhiata to mean "have a look around".Tatoeba #5022571 by Guybrush88, translation #3393309 by CK
- Dai un'occhiata.Have a look.This sentence is a simple way to say "have a look" using dai un'occhiata.Tatoeba #2551397 by Guybrush88, translation #2245539 by CK
- Vorrei che lei facesse un'occhiata a questo documento.I would like you to have a look at this document.
- Le ricordo di dare un'occhiata al rapporto prima della riunione.I remind you to have a look at the report before the meeting.
- Guarda che bel tramonto!Have a look at that beautiful sunset!
- Dai un'occhiata a quella nuova serie Netflix.Have a look at that new Netflix series.
- Dai un'occhiata a questa foto.Have a look at this photo.
Example conversation
Francesco is showing Martina a new piece of furniture in their living room.
- FrancescoMartina, dai un'occhiata a questo tavolo.Martina, have a look at this table.
- MartinaÈ molto bello, Francesco.It is very beautiful, Francesco.
- FrancescoCredi che stia bene qui?Do you think it looks good here?
- MartinaSì, sta benissimo.Yes, it looks great.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
