sto bene
/ˈstɔ ˈbɛ.ne/
The Italian phrase for "i am good" is sto bene.
sto bene is used specifically as a response to indicate that you are healthy or feeling well. To emphasize that you are doing exceptionally well, you can use molto bene.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the first-person singular of stare (I stay/am) and the adverb bene (well), literally meaning "I stay well".
Which one should you use?
Do not confuse sto bene with sono buono.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses the verb stare (to be/to stay) to describe a state of health or well-being, rather than using the verb essere.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈstɔ ˈbɛ.ne/. The first of three syllables is stressed.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly say sono bene by translating "I am" literally. You should use sto bene instead to express that you are feeling well.
Did you know?
- If you were to say you are 'good' in a culinary sense using sono buono, a chef might laugh because you are describing yourself as a tasty meal.
- Depending on the tone, sto bene can be used as a sharp rebuttal to tell someone to stop fussing over you, similar to saying 'I'm fine!' in English.
- The verb stare in sto bene is related to the English word 'state'. Both come from the Latin root meaning 'to stand' or 'to remain' in a particular condition.
Examples in context
- Sto bene, grazie.I am good, thank you.
Example conversation
Alessandro and Giulia meet for coffee in the city center.
- AlessandroCiao Giulia, come stai?Hi Giulia, how are you?
- GiuliaCiao Alessandro, sto bene, e tu?Hi Alessandro, I am good, and you?
- AlessandroAnch'io sto bene.I am good too.
- GiuliaChe bello!That's great!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry sto bene, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
