Sto imparando
The English phrase "I am learning" is translated into Italian as Sto imparando.
Sto imparando is used to express that you are currently in the middle of the process of acquiring a new skill or piece of knowledge.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the verb stare (to be/to stay) in the first-person singular present tense and the gerund of imparare (to learn).
Which one should you use?
While Sto imparando specifically emphasizes an action that is currently in progress, the simple present form Imparo can also be used to mean "I am learning" in many different contexts.
How does it change in a sentence?
This construction uses the present progressive (stare + gerund) to emphasize an action currently in progress. When you want to say "I am learning to" followed by an infinitive verb, you must use the preposition a between imparando and the verb, such as in Sto imparando a cucinare.
Did you know?
- The verb imparare shares a root with the English word 'prepare'. Both stem from the Latin parare, which means 'to make ready' or 'to set in order'.
- If you want to say you are learning by heart, you use the phrase imparare a memoria instead of a literal translation of 'heart'.
- The choice of stare in Sto imparando relates to the Latin stare, meaning 'to stand'. This implies the speaker is 'standing' in the middle of an activity.
Examples in context
- Sto imparando per te.I am learning for you.This sentence is useful for expressing the reason behind your learning.Tatoeba #2279808 by Guybrush88, translation #2233215 by abhu
- Sto imparando il basco.I am learning Basque.This sentence shows how to use the phrase with a language.Tatoeba #668164 by rado, translation #667840 by Zifre
- Sto imparando il turco.I am learning Turkish.Tatoeba #861938 by Guybrush88, translation #860098 by piksea
- 47 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Matteo and Martina are talking about their new hobbies at a café.
- MatteoSto imparando a suonare il piano.I am learning to play the piano.
- MartinaChe bello! È molto difficile?How lovely! Is it very difficult?
- MatteoUn po', ma mi piace molto.A little, but I like it a lot.
- MartinaComplimenti, Matteo, continua così!Congratulations, Matteo, keep it up!
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
