sì, signorina
/ˈsi siɲ.ɲoˈri.na/word by word
The Italian phrase for "yes, miss" is sì, signorina.
sì, signorina is a polite way to answer affirmatively to a young woman or an unmarried woman. The term signorina can also be used to refer to a female teacher.
Which one should you use?
While sì, signorina is used for young or unmarried women, you should use sì, signora (yes, ma'am) if you are addressing a married woman or a woman who is significantly older than yourself.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 4 syllables, with the stress on the 1st syllable. The IPA is /ˈsi siɲ.ɲoˈri.na/.
Did you know?
- Calling a married woman signorina is often interpreted as a compliment to her youth rather than a mistake.
- The word sì originates from the Latin word sīc, which literally means 'so' or 'in this manner'.
- In modern Italian, using signorina can sometimes be perceived as condescending or outdated, similar to how 'miss' is viewed in some professional English contexts.
Examples in context
- Sì, signorina, arrivo subito.Yes, miss, I am coming right away.
- Sì, signorina, il tavolo è pronto.Yes, miss, the table is ready.
- Sì, signorina, ho capito perfettamente.Yes, miss, I understood perfectly.
Example conversation
Matteo is a waiter serving Sofia at a cafe.
- SofiaScusi, vorrei un caffè macchiato.Excuse me, I would like a macchiato.
- MatteoSì, signorina, glielo porto subito.Yes, miss, I will bring it to you immediately.
- SofiaGrazie mille, è molto gentile.Thank you very much, you are very kind.
- MatteoPrego, signorina.You're welcome, miss.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (sì, signorina) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries signorina, sì, CC BY-SA 4.0.
