sto imparando l'italiano
In Italian, "I am learning italian" is translated as sto imparando l'italiano.
This phrase is used to state that you are currently in the process of studying the Italian language.
What does it mean word for word?
The part sto imparando is a literal translation of "I am learning", which combines the auxiliary verb stare (to be/to stay) with the gerund of the verb imparare (to learn).
Which one should you use?
While sto imparando l'italiano uses the progressive aspect to emphasize an ongoing process happening right now, you can also say imparo l'italiano using the present indicative to express the same idea.
How does it change in a sentence?
In Italian, names of languages are typically preceded by a definite article, which is why l'italiano is used instead of just italiano. The phrase sto imparando l'italiano specifically uses the progressive aspect (stare + gerund) to highlight that the learning is an ongoing process.
Did you know?
- Unlike English, where 'Italian' is capitalized, the word italiano is written with a lowercase letter when referring to the language.
- While you might say you are learning 'Italian', the term italiano actually refers to a standardized version of the language that was largely based on the dialect of Florence.
- Italian has a unique concept called italiano regionale, meaning the language varies significantly by region. Even a fluent speaker saying sto imparando l'italiano may find that the 'Italian' spoken in Naples differs greatly from that in Milan.
Examples in context
- Sto imparando l'italiano da solo.I am learning Italian by myself.
- Sto imparando l'italiano con un insegnante.I am learning Italian with a teacher.
- Finalmente sto imparando l'italiano!I am finally learning Italian!
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about their hobbies at a cafe.
- AlessandroCosa fai nel tempo libero?What do you do in your free time?
- ChiaraSto imparando l'italiano.I am learning Italian.
- AlessandroChe bello, Chiara! È una lingua stupenda.That's great, Chiara! It is a wonderful language.
- ChiaraGrazie, Alessandro. È un po' difficile.Thanks, Alessandro. It is a bit difficult.
