cosa intendi?
The Italian phrase for "what do you mean?" is cosa intendi?
cosa intendi? is a question used to ask someone to clarify or explain their statement.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of cosa (what) and intendi (the second-person singular present tense of intendere, meaning to intend or to mean).
Which one should you use?
While cosa intendi? is used for clarification, a common alternative is che cosa vuoi dire?, which literally translates to "what do you want to say?" and can be used interchangeably.
How does it change in a sentence?
To address a single person in a formal context or with respect, use the third-person singular form cosa intende? If you are asking a group of people what they mean, use the second-person plural form cosa intendete?
Did you know?
- If you say cosa intendi? with a sharp and rising tone, it can shift from a request for clarification to a challenge of the other person's motives.
- The word cosa in this phrase actually comes from the Latin causa, meaning 'cause' or 'reason'.
- The verb intendere is often used in Italian to mean 'to understand', a meaning that is not the primary use of the English word 'intend'.
Examples in context
- Non capisco, cosa intendi?I don't understand, what do you mean?
Example conversation
Lorenzo and Giulia are discussing their travel plans.
- LorenzoPenso che dovremmo cambiare hotel.I think we should change hotels.
- GiuliaCosa intendi? Quello sembra un buon posto.What do you mean? That looks like a good place.
- LorenzoÈ troppo lontano dal centro.It is too far from the center.
- GiuliaAh, capisco il tuo punto di vista.Ah, I see your point of view.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries cosa, CC BY-SA 4.0.
