What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "I want of the water." The part dell'acqua is a contraction of della (meaning "some" or "of the") and acqua (meaning "water").
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The phrase voglio dell'acqua is informal. For a more polite and standard way to order water in a restaurant or cafe, use the conditional form vorrei dell'acqua ("I would like some water"). Other formal options include Vorrei dell'acqua, per favore ("I would like some water, please") or Potrei avere dell'acqua, per cortesia? ("Could I have some water, please?"). In informal settings, you might also say Posso prendere dell'acqua? ("Can I get some water?").
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase voglio dell'acqua uses a partitive article to mean "some water." While voglio acqua is grammatically possible, it sounds blunt and less natural in most social contexts. Additionally, using the conditional vorrei is the standard way to make a polite request.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid saying voglio l'acqua. While this translates to "I want the water," English speakers often use the definite article mistakenly. Using l'acqua makes it sound like you are demanding a specific bottle of water that was previously mentioned, rather than asking for some water in general.
Did you know?
- In many Italian cities, you can get free 'water' from nasoni, the iconic curved iron drinking fountains. These provide cold, potable water 24 hours a day and are a symbol of Rome's ancient hydraulic heritage.
- While voglio expresses a strong desire, Italians often use the expression ho sete (literally 'I have thirst') to indicate they want water. It is the standard way to signal the need for a drink without sounding demanding.
- In Italy, ordering a glass of tap water in a restaurant is uncommon. Most patrons expect to be served bottled mineral water, and requesting tap water may be seen as an unusual request in some regions.
Examples in context
- Vorrei dell'acqua, per favore. Quanto costa?I would like some water, please. How much does it cost?
- Posso prendere dell'acqua? Sono davvero assetato!Can I get some water? I'm really thirsty!
- Voglio dell'acqua, per favore.I want some water, please.
- Ho molta sete, voglio dell'acqua.I am very thirsty, I want some water.
- Voglio dell'acqua fresca.I want some fresh water.
Example conversation
Sofia and Lorenzo are at a restaurant.
- SofiaLorenzo, ho molta sete.Lorenzo, I am very thirsty.
- LorenzoVuoi ordinare qualcosa?Do you want to order something?
- SofiaSì, voglio dell'acqua.Yes, I want some water.
- LorenzoVa bene, la ordino subito.Okay, I will order it right away.
