ecco
/ˈɛk.ko/
The English phrase 'here you go' can be translated into Italian as ecco.
ecco is used when handing something to someone. It can also be used more generally to mean 'here it is' or 'there it is' when something is found or appears.
What does it mean word for word?
ecco is a particle used to draw attention to something that is being presented or appearing, often translated as 'behold' or 'here is'.
Which one should you use?
While ecco can mean 'here you go' when handing something over, it is also used more generally to mean 'here it is' when something is found or appears. Adding the adverb qua to ecco is a very common way to say 'here you go' when handing an object to someone. Adding the adverb qui to ecco is a common alternative to ecco qua.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has two syllables, with the stress on the first syllable: /ˈɛk.ko/.
Did you know?
- The word ecco is a contraction of the Latin words 'ecce' and 'eum', which literally translate to 'behold him'.
- Using ecco with a sigh or a shrug can imply 'here we go again', signaling resignation rather than a helpful gesture.
- Italians often use ecco to signal the end of a task, such as saying ecco fatto to mean 'there, it is done'.
Examples in context
- "Posso usare il tuo dizionario?" "Certo. Ecco qua.""Can I use your dictionary?" "Of course. Here you go."This sentence shows a way to use ecco when someone asks to use a dictionary.Tatoeba #4890309 by Guybrush88, translation #2826286 by sundown
- Ecco qui, Jim.Here you go, Jim.This sentence demonstrates the use of ecco to say 'here you go' to a person named Jim.Tatoeba #6321333 by Guybrush88, translation #5817757 by OsoHombre
- Certamente, ecco a lei.Certainly, here you go.
- Ecco qui.Here you go.
- Ecco il tuo caffè.Here is your coffee.
- 2 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Sofia is handing a book to Lorenzo in a cafe.
- SofiaHai chiesto il libro di storia?Did you ask for the history book?
- LorenzoSì, grazie mille.Yes, thanks a lot.
- SofiaEcco, prendilo.Here you go, take it.
- LorenzoGrazie, Sofia.Thanks, Sofia.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ecco, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ecco, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
