Learning how to say “pay” in Italian is essential for effective communication when travelling or interacting with Italian speakers. In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to express the concept of payment in Italian, while also providing regional variations when necessary. You’ll find numerous tips, examples, and cultural insights along the way to enrich your understanding. So, let’s dive into the world of Italian payments!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions for “Pay”
1. Pagare: This is the most common verb for “to pay” in Italian and can be used in various contexts. It’s a regular -are verb, so its conjugation is straightforward. Here’s how it looks in the present tense:
Io pago – I pay
Tu paghi – You pay
Egli/Ella paga – He/She pays
Noi paghiamo – We pay
Voi pagate – You all pay
Loro pagano – They pay
2. Saldare: This verb specifically refers to settling a bill or payment. It carries a sense of completion and is often used in formal or business contexts:
Ho saldato il conto – I paid the bill
Informal Expressions for “Pay”
1. Dare: This verb means “to give” but can also be used to express paying in an informal setting:
Gli ho dato i soldi – I gave him the money (to pay for something)
2. Sborsare: This verb conveys the idea of “shelling out” or “forking over” money, usually in reference to an expense:
Devo sborsare una fortuna per quel vestito – I have to pay a fortune for that dress
Regional Variations
While the formal and informal expressions mentioned above are commonly understood throughout Italy, it’s worth noting some regional variations that you may come across while travelling:
1. Northern Italy:
In Northern Italy, it’s common to hear the word “pagare” used both formally and informally. However, some regions also use “saldare” in informal contexts, particularly in business transactions.
2. Central Italy:
Central Italian regions often embrace the phrase “pagare” in both formal and informal situations.
3. Southern Italy:
In Southern Italy, along with “pagare” and “saldare,” you might also encounter “ammazzare” in informal settings. Although initially meaning “to kill,” it has evolved to colloquially mean “to pay for something.”
Useful Tips and Examples
1. Always make sure to include the appropriate preposition when expressing payment. The most common preposition used is “per” (for) when indicating what the payment is for. For instance:
Ho pagato 20 euro per il pasto – I paid 20 euros for the meal
2. In restaurants or cafes, payment is often made directly at the cashier’s desk or counter. You can ask for the bill by saying:
Il conto, per favore – The bill, please
3. When discussing payments in a formal context, such as in a business setting, it’s important to use the polite form. For example:
Le invieremo una fattura per il pagamento – We will send you an invoice for the payment
4. In Italian culture, it’s common to round up the bill in restaurants as a gesture of gratitude. This is known as the “coperto” and generally ranges between 1 to 3 euros.
5. When shopping and wanting to ask whether a particular store accepts credit cards, you can politely inquire:
Accettate carte di credito? – Do you accept credit cards?
In Conclusion
Mastering the vocabulary associated with payments in Italian is crucial for seamless interactions, whether you’re enjoying a meal, shopping, or handling formal transactions. Remember to adapt your language based on the level of formality required and be aware of regional variations if you find yourself exploring different parts of Italy. Understanding these nuances will not only assist you practically but will also deepen your connections with Italian speakers, ensuring a warm and positive experience throughout your journey!
