Italian · Real conversations
Repairing a conversation: useful Italian phrases
Check a meaning and leave with something you can use.
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.
- I don't understand
non capisco
I don't understand
- Can you repeat that, please?
Puoi ripetere, per favore?
Can you repeat that, please?
- More slowly, please
più piano, per favore
More slowly, please
- I have a question
ho una domanda
I have a question
Make the conversation more specific
| What you want to say | Italian |
|---|---|
| I don't understand | non capisco I don't understand |
| Can you repeat that, please? | Puoi ripetere, per favore? Can you repeat that, please? |
| More slowly, please | più piano, per favore More slowly, please |
| I have a question | ho una domanda I have a question |
| Could you write it down? | Potrebbe scriverlo? Show English translationCould you write it down? |
| Could you give me an example? | Potrebbe farmi un esempio? Show English translationCould you give me an example? |
| Do you mean ...? | Intende …? Show English translationDo you mean …? |
| Let me check that I understood. | Vediamo se ho capito bene. Show English translationLet me check that I understood. |
| Is this the right word? | È la parola giusta? Show English translationIs this the right word? |
Read the other side of the exchange
Partner
Il nome è un po' difficile da scrivere.
The name is a little difficult to spell.
You
Potrebbe scriverlo?
Could you write it down?
Partner
Certo. Questa parola descrive un'azione abituale.
Of course. This word describes a regular action.
You
Potrebbe farmi un esempio?
Could you give me an example?
Repairing a conversation 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.
