sto bene
/ˈstɔ ˈbɛ.ne/
The English phrase "I am well" is translated into Italian as sto bene.
sto bene is used to express that you are in good health or are currently feeling good.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the first-person singular of the verb stare (to stay/be) and the adverb bene (well).
Which one should you use?
While English uses the verb "to be" to discuss health, Italian uses the verb stare to express how one is feeling or the state of one's health.
How do you pronounce it?
The phrase has 3 syllables. The stress is on the first syllable: /ˈstɔ ˈbɛ.ne/.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid saying sono bene. English speakers often make this error by translating "to be" literally, but you must use the verb stare in this context.
When do people say it?
After saying sto bene, it is common to follow up with E tu? (And you?) to return the question. For an informal way to express that you are doing well, you can also use the phrase Tutto a posto, which means "everything is in order".
Did you know?
- If someone says sto bene while refusing a drink or food, it acts as a polite 'no thank you' rather than a report on their health. It suggests they are 'satisfied' or 'set' and do not need more.
- You can use a specific downward inflection on the phrase sto bene to signal the opposite of its literal meaning. If said with a certain tone, it can ironically imply that you are actually struggling or doing poorly.
- The verb stare in sto bene originally meant 'to stand'. This is why the phrase describes a state of being as if you are 'standing' or 'remaining' in a certain condition.
Examples in context
- Sto bene.I am well.This sentence is useful for practicing the phrase sto bene.Tatoeba #653767 by Guybrush88, translation #574624 by Zac2333
- Sto bene, grazie! E lei?I am well, thank you! And you?
- Anch'io sto bene, grazie!I am well too, thank you!
- Sto bene! E tu?I am well! And you?
- Grazie, sto bene.Thanks, I am well.
- Sì, sto bene oggi.Yes, I am well today.
Example conversation
Sofia and Francesco meet at a cafe.
- SofiaCiao Francesco, come stai?Hi Francesco, how are you?
- FrancescoCiao Sofia, sto bene e tu?Hi Sofia, I am well and you?
- SofiaAnch'io sto bene, grazie.I am well too, thank you.
- FrancescoChe bello sentire!That's great to hear!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry sto bene, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
