sto bene
/ˈstɔ ˈbɛ.ne/
The English phrase "I am ok" can be translated into Italian as sto bene.
The phrase is used to express that you are in good health or feeling well.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the first-person singular of the verb 'stare' (to stand/stay) and the adverb 'bene' (well), literally meaning "I stand well".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Sicilian, you may use Mi sentu bonu. to say "I feel good."
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈstɔ ˈbɛ.ne/. The phrase has 3 syllables and the stress is on the 1st syllable.
What mistakes should you avoid?
However, in Italian, you must use the verb 'stare' to describe health and well-being.
Did you know?
- If you use the verb essere (to be) instead of stare when someone asks how you are, you might sound like you are describing your permanent essence rather than your temporary health.
- The verb stare in sto bene shares a root with the English word 'stable', as both relate to the idea of standing or staying in a fixed position.
- In many Italian regions, if someone asks how you are, responding with only bene can sometimes sound curt or dismissive if not accompanied by a smile.
Examples in context
- Come stai? Sto bene, grazie.How are you? I am well, thanks.
- Sto bene, grazie.I am ok, thank you.
- Non preoccuparti, sto bene.Don't worry, I am ok.
Example conversation
Chiara meets Francesco at a cafe and they greet each other.
- ChiaraCiao Francesco, come stai?Hi Francesco, how are you?
- FrancescoSto bene, e tu, Chiara?I am ok, and you, Chiara?
- ChiaraAnche io sto bene.I am also doing well.
- FrancescoBene, allora prendiamo un caffè.Good, let's have a coffee then.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry sto bene, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
