Italian · Real conversations
Changing plans: useful Italian phrases
Explain a change and offer a clear next step.
Start with the essentials
Start with the essential words and expressions below. Next, learn the five specific phrases in the reference table. Finally, read both sides of the exchange and try the linked rehearsal before revealing its sample replies. This collection connects to the broader vocabulary topic.
- Late
tardi
Late
- On time
in orario
On time
- Don't worry
non preoccuparti
Don't worry
- See you later
a dopo
See you later
Make the conversation more specific
| What you want to say | Italian |
|---|---|
| Late | tardi Late |
| On time | in orario On time |
| Don't worry | non preoccuparti Don't worry |
| See you later | a dopo See you later |
| I'm running ten minutes late. | Sono in ritardo di dieci minuti. Show English translationI'm running ten minutes late. |
| Can we move it to ...? | Possiamo spostarlo a …? Show English translationCan we move it to …? |
| Something has come up. | È successo un imprevisto. Show English translationSomething has come up. |
| I'm afraid I can't make it. | Purtroppo non riesco a venire. Show English translationI'm afraid I can't make it. |
| I'll let you know. | Ti faccio sapere. Show English translationI'll let you know. |
Read the other side of the exchange
Partner
Sono già al bar. Stai per arrivare?
I'm already at the café. Are you nearly here?
You
Sono in ritardo di dieci minuti.
I'm running ten minutes late.
Partner
Grazie per avermelo detto. Possiamo anche scegliere un altro giorno.
Thanks for telling me. We could also choose another day.
You
Possiamo spostarlo a sabato?
Can we move it to Saturday?
Changing plans 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.
