Learning how to express yourself clearly and understand others’ intentions is essential when it comes to communicating effectively in Italian. One phrase that can help you seek clarification is “What do you mean?”. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to say this phrase in Italian, providing useful tips, examples, and even regional variations if necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “What Do You Mean?”
When addressing someone formally, such as a stranger, an older person, or someone in a position of authority, you can use the following phrases to ask for clarification:
Come si intende? (literal translation: How do you mean?)
Let’s break down this formal phrase:
- Come means “how.”
- Si is a reflexive pronoun that is used to show formal courtesy in this context.
- Intende is the formal third-person singular form of the verb “intendere,” meaning “to mean.”
Here are a few examples to help you understand the usage of this phrase:
Example 1:
Person A: Ho avuto qualche difficoltà con la consegna.
Person B: Come si intende?\\
Translation:
Person A: I had some difficulty with the delivery.
Person B: What do you mean?
Example 2:
Person A: Ho bisogno di maggiori dettagli per completare il progetto.
Person B: Potrebbe spiegare meglio, per favore? Come si intende?\\
Translation:
Person A: I need more details to complete the project.
Person B: Could you please explain more? What do you mean?
Informal Ways to Say “What Do You Mean?”
When speaking in a more informal setting with friends, family, or peers, you can use the following phrases to ask what someone means:
Cosa intendi? (literal translation: What do you mean?)
Let’s break down this informal phrase:
- Cosa means “what.”
- Intendi is the second-person singular form of the verb “intendere,” meaning “to mean.”
Take a look at a couple of examples to better grasp how this phrase is used:
Example 1:
Person A: Ho visto Marco l’altro giorno con un’altra ragazza.
Person B: Cosa intendi?\\
Translation:
Person A: I saw Marco the other day with another girl.
Person B: What do you mean?
Example 2:
Person A: Non mi piace il comportamento di Paolo di recente.
Person B: Scusa, cosa intendi esattamente?\\
Translation:
Person A: I don’t like Paolo’s behavior lately.
Person B: Sorry, what do you mean exactly?
It’s important to note that the formal phrases can also be used in informal settings if you want to show extra respect or politeness to the person you’re speaking with.
Regional Variations
Italian is rich in regional dialects, and while the phrases mentioned above are widely understood throughout the country, there might be some regional variations. However, for the phrase “What do you mean?” there are no significant regional differences that need to be addressed.
Remember that the key to learning any language is practice and exposure. Don’t be afraid to use these phrases in conversations, as Italians will appreciate your effort to communicate clearly. Buona fortuna!
