Italian · Real conversations
How to respond to “Che si dice?” in Italian
A casual opening may invite a quick update rather than a literal explanation of what is above you.
What you might hear
Che si dice?
What's up?
Choose a reply that fits
Niente di speciale. E tu?
Not much. And you?
Keep it casual and return the question.
Sto andando al lavoro.
I'm heading to work.
Mention what you are doing next.
Sono stato impegnato / stata impegnata con le lezioni.
I've been busy with classes.
Share a short update about your recent activities.
Ho una bella notizia.
I have some good news.
Use when you have news you want to share.
Two short exchanges
A casual encounter
Che si dice?
What's up?
Niente di speciale. E tu?
Not much. And you?
Catching up with a friend
Che cosa hai fatto ultimamente?
What have you been up to?
Sto andando al lavoro.
I'm heading to work.
Your turn
Give a short update about being busy with classes.
Reveal a sample reply
Sono stato impegnato / stata impegnata con le lezioni.
I've been busy with classes.
This response guide in other languages
A note on speaking Italian
Use tu with friends and Lei with someone you address formally. A request with vorrei or potrebbe can soften the tone; it still helps to say what you need clearly. The examples label the situation so you can choose the appropriate relationship.
Read doubled consonants distinctly and keep the written accents. The English translation explains the intended message; Italian often chooses a different construction rather than matching each English word.
