mi piace qualcosa
The English phrase 'I like something' is translated into Italian as mi piace qualcosa.
This phrase is used to express that a person finds a particular thing pleasing or enjoyable.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to 'to me is pleasing something' because the verb piacere functions differently than the English 'to like'.
How does it change in a sentence?
In Italian, the verb must agree with the thing being liked. When the thing being liked is singular, you use the singular form mi piace. If the 'something' you like is plural, the verb must change to the plural form mi piacciono.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly say io piaccio to mean 'I like', but this actually means 'I am pleasing (to someone)'.
Did you know?
- While mi piace expresses a general like, Italians use the phrase mi piace da morire to say they like something 'to death' when they are truly obsessed with it.
- In romantic contexts, saying mi piaci to someone does not mean 'I like you' as a friend, but specifically 'I am attracted to you'.
- The word qualcosa is a 'compound' word made by joining qualche (some) and cosa (thing).
Examples in context
- Mi piace la pizza.I like pizza.
- Mi piace leggere.I like reading.
- Mi piace molto il gelato.I really like ice cream.
- Mi piace molto ascoltare musica.I really like listening to music.
- Mi piace un sacco la pasta.I really like pasta a lot.
- Adoro il mare.I love the sea.
- Adoro cucinare.I love cooking.
Example conversation
Sofia and Alessandro are looking at a menu at a cafe.
- SofiaCosa vuoi ordinare, Alessandro?What do you want to order, Alessandro?
- AlessandroNon lo so, mi piace qualcosa di fresco.I don't know, I like something fresh.
- SofiaTi consiglio il sorbetto al limone.I recommend the lemon sorbet.
- AlessandroOttima idea, prendo quello!Great idea, I'll have that!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries mi, qualcosa, CC BY-SA 4.0.
