What does it mean word for word?
The phrase tutto a posto literally translates to "everything in place".
Which one should you use?
While tutto a posto? is a common way to ask "all good?", other variations exist. You can use È tutto a posto? or È tutto OK? to ask "is everything okay?", or Va tutto bene? to ask "is everything alright?" For a more direct way to ask "everything okay?", you can use Tutto ok?
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
tutto a posto? is a common, informal way to ask if everything is okay. For a formal context, use Le va tutto bene?
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation of tutto a posto? is /ˈtut.to a ˈpos.to/. It has 4 syllables and the stress is on the 1st syllable.
When do people say it?
If someone asks you if everything is okay, a common response is Tutto a posto, grazie to say "everything is fine, thanks".
Did you know?
- The phrase tutto a posto is so versatile that it can be used as a sarcastic response. If something has gone terribly wrong, saying it with a sigh can mean 'everything is just great'.
- The phrase shares a root with the English word 'post', as both derive from the Latin concept of being placed or positioned.
- While tutto a posto means 'everything is okay', the word posto also means 'place' or 'seat'. If you are at a restaurant, you can use the same word to ask if there is a 'place' for you to sit.
Examples in context
- Scusa, ma tutto a posto?Excuse me, but is everything okay?
Example conversation
Chiara sees Francesco looking stressed at his desk.
- ChiaraFrancesco, tutto a posto?Francesco, is everything okay?
- FrancescoSì, tutto a posto, grazie.Yes, everything is okay, thanks.
- ChiaraSei sicuro?Are you sure?
- FrancescoSì, sono solo un po' stanco.Yes, I am just a little tired.
