sto solo guardando
The Italian phrase for "just looking" is sto solo guardando.
sto solo guardando is used in a shop to tell a salesperson that you do not need help. It is common and polite to append grazie (thank you) to the end of the phrase when declining assistance from a shop assistant.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of sto (I am), solo (only/just) and guardando (looking).
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses the present continuous construction with the auxiliary verb stare and the gerund guardando.
Did you know?
- In Italy, if you say sto solo guardando, a shop assistant might still hover nearby. This is often not a lack of respect for your space, but a cultural way to show they are ready to serve you immediately.
- The word guardando comes from the same root as the English word 'guard', as both relate to the act of watching or keeping watch.
- While sto solo guardando is a perfect translation, Italians often use the shorter, more casual Solo un'occhiata (Just a look) when browsing through clothing or books.
Examples in context
- Sto solo guardando, grazie.I'm just looking, thank you.This sentence shows how to politely say you are just looking by adding thanks.Tatoeba #3608286 by Guybrush88, translation #38407 by CK
- No, grazie. Sto solo guardando.No, thank you. I'm just looking.This sentence shows how to decline help and say you are just looking.Tatoeba #4849929 by Guybrush88, translation #66813 by CK
- Sto solo guardando.I'm just looking.This sentence is a simple way to say you are just looking.Tatoeba #1509204 by chinro, translation #499998 by drnm2
Example conversation
In a clothing boutique, a salesperson approaches a customer.
- FrancescoPosso aiutarla a trovare qualcosa?Can I help you find something?
- MartinaNo, grazie, sto solo guardando.No, thank you, I am just looking.
- FrancescoCertamente, mi faccia sapere se serve.Certainly, let me know if you need anything.
- MartinaVa bene, grazie mille.Alright, thanks a lot.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries solo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
