puoi
The English phrase "you can" is translated into Italian as puoi.
This phrase is used to tell someone that they have the ability or the permission to perform an action. It is typically followed directly by an infinitive verb, such as puoi andare (you can go).
Which one should you use?
While puoi is the standard way to say "you can" in an informal setting, you may also encounter Riesci a fare, which is an informal way to say "You manage to do."
How does it change in a sentence?
puoi is the second-person singular informal conjugation of the verb potere (to be able to/can). When addressing more than one person, use potete instead of puoi. When addressing a single person formally, use the third-person singular form può.
Did you know?
- While puoi is used for general ability, Italians may use a completely different verb, sapere, to say 'you can' if the ability is a learned skill like playing an instrument.
- The word puoi shares a root with the English word 'potent', as both derive from the Latin word for power, potestas.
- The distinction between puoi and può is so strict that using the informal version with a stranger can be perceived as a social aggression rather than just a mistake.
Examples in context
- Ce la puoi fare!You can do it.This sentence uses puoi to express encouragement.Tatoeba #737515 by Guybrush88, translation #1391 by brauliobezerra
- Puoi dirlo a lui.You can tell him.This sentence uses puoi to give permission to tell him.Tatoeba #5719634 by Guybrush88, translation #3908995 by CH
- Puoi dirlo a lei.You can tell her.This sentence uses puoi to give permission to tell her.Tatoeba #5719640 by Guybrush88, translation #3908996 by CH
- Può fare meglio di cosìYou can do better than this
- Puoi fare questoYou can do this
- Puoi fare meglioYou can do better
- Riesci a fare tuttoYou can manage to do everything
- Sai fare il falegnameYou know how to be a carpenter
- 527 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Alessandro and Chiara are at home discussing work.
- AlessandroChiara, puoi aiutarmi con questo progetto?Chiara, can you help me with this project?
- ChiaraSì, posso farlo domani mattina.Yes, I can do it tomorrow morning.
- AlessandroGrazie, sei molto gentile.Thanks, you are very kind.
- ChiaraDi nulla, Alessandro.You're welcome, Alessandro.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
