So un po' d'italiano
To say I know a little Italian in Italian, say So un po' d'italiano.
What does it mean word for word?
So means I know and un po' means a little. d'italiano means of Italian.
Which one should you use?
To say you understand a little Italian, use Capisco un po' d'italiano, which is informal.
How does it change in a sentence?
So is the first person singular present of sapere, to know. The apostrophe in po' shows the word is shortened from poco.
Did you know?
- While English speakers use 'know' for both facts and skills, Italian distinguishes between sapere for knowing information and conoscere for being acquainted with people or places.
- In Italy, people often use the phrase un po' to politely downplay their actual skill level, even if they are quite proficient, as a way of remaining modest.
- The word poco in un po' shares the same root as the English word 'pittance', referring to a small or meager amount.
Examples in context
- So un po' d'italiano, ma non molto.I know a little Italian, but not much.
- So un po' d'italiano per lavoro.I know a little Italian for work.
- Sinceramente, so un po' d'italiano.Honestly, I know a little Italian.
Example conversation
Giulia and Matteo are meeting for the first time.
- GiuliaParli bene la mia lingua, Giulia!You speak my language well, Giulia!
- MatteoNo, in realtà so un po' d'italiano.No, actually I know a little Italian.
- GiuliaÈ comunque un ottimo inizio.It is a great start anyway.
- MatteoGrazie, Matteo!Thanks, Matteo!
