What does it mean word for word?
The phrase si prega di notare literally translates to "one is prayed to note" or "it is requested to note."
Which one should you use?
The formal, impersonal si prega di notare is used for official notices or professional writing. In contrast, nota che is a direct imperative used in informal or singular contexts.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
si prega di notare is a highly formal expression. It is most commonly found in written instructions, official notices or professional correspondence. Another formal option is Si osservi che, which literally means "It is observed that".
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses the impersonal reflexive si to create a formal, impersonal request. If you follow the phrase with a clause containing a subject and a verb, you must use the conjunction che after it (e.g., si prega di notare che).
Did you know?
- While si prega di notare is used in writing, an Italian speaking to someone in person would rarely use this phrase and would instead use tieni presente or fai caso.
- The verb pregare in si prega di notare means 'to pray' in a religious context, but in this phrase it functions as a formal way to say 'please' or 'request'.
- While English speakers use 'please' to soften a command, the Italian si prega di uses a grammatical structure to achieve politeness. It relies on the impersonal reflexive rather than a direct adverb of courtesy.
Examples in context
- Si prega di notare che abbiamo citato il prezzo più basso possibile.Please note that we have quoted the lowest possible price.This sentence shows how to use si prega di notare when mentioning a price.Tatoeba #3377316 by Guybrush88, translation #243697 by CM
- Si prega di notare la modifica all'ordine del giorno della riunione.Please note the change in the meeting agenda.This sentence demonstrates using si prega di notare to point out a change in an agenda.Tatoeba #12757847 by Guybrush88, translation #22517 by CK
- Prestare attenzione: Il documento deve essere firmato entro la fine della settimana.Please note: The document must be signed by the end of the week.
- Si prega di notare: I prezzi sono soggetti a modifiche senza preavviso.Please note: Prices are subject to change without notice.
- Si osservi che: È vietato fumare all'interno dell'edificio.Please note: Smoking is prohibited inside the building.
- Si prega di notare che il negozio chiuderà in anticipo.Please note that the shop will close early.
Example conversation
Francesco is sending an email to Giulia about a project deadline.
- FrancescoCiao Giulia, ecco il documento aggiornato per il progetto.Hi Giulia, here is the updated document for the project.
- GiuliaGrazie Francesco, lo controllo subito.Thanks Francesco, I will check it right away.
- FrancescoSi prega di notare che la scadenza è stata anticipata.Please note that the deadline has been moved forward.
- GiuliaOh, grazie per l'avviso, mi attivo subito.Oh, thanks for the notice, I'll get on it immediately.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
