What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "we see ourselves later".
Which one should you use?
While ci vediamo dopo is the common way to say "see you later" in a general sense, ci vediamo più tardi can be used if you want to specifically emphasize that the meeting will happen at a later point in time.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Ci vediamo dopo is an informal expression. For an even shorter informal option, you can simply say A dopo, which means "Later" or "See you later". If you are speaking very casually with friends, you might use the colloquial expression Ci becchiamo dopo, which means "We'll catch up later".
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses the reflexive verb vedersi (to see each other), which is why the pronoun ci (ourselves/each other) is used.
When do people say it?
If you intend to communicate via phone or messaging rather than meeting in person, you should use the informal phrase Ci sentiamo dopo, which means "We'll talk later" or "We'll be in touch later".
Did you know?
- The colloquial version Ci becchiamo dopo uses a verb that literally means 'to peck' like a bird. It is the Italian equivalent of the English 'catch you later'.
- The word ci in this phrase may have evolved from the Latin word hinc, which means 'hence' or 'from this person'.
Examples in context
- Ci vediamo dopo in ufficio.I will see you later at the office.
- Va bene, ci vediamo dopo!Alright, see you later!
- Ci vediamo dopo per un caffè.I will see you later for a coffee.
Example conversation
Giulia and Alessandro are leaving a library to meet again in the afternoon.
- GiuliaDevo andare via adesso.I have to go now.
- AlessandroVa bene, ci vediamo dopo.Alright, I will see you later.
- GiuliaPerfetto, a più tardi!Perfect, see you later!
- AlessandroA presto, Giulia.See you soon, Giulia.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ci, dopo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
