Italian · Real conversations
Expressing preferences: useful Italian phrases
Explain what you would enjoy and make a joint choice.
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 like it
mi piace
I like it
- I don't like it
non mi piace
I don't like it
- I love it!
lo adoro!
I love it!
- What do you recommend?
Cosa mi consiglia?
What do you recommend?
Make the conversation more specific
| What you want to say | Italian |
|---|---|
| I like it | mi piace I like it |
| I don't like it | non mi piace I don't like it |
| I love it! | lo adoro! I love it! |
| What do you recommend? | Cosa mi consiglia? What do you recommend? |
| I'd rather ... | Preferirei … Show English translationI'd rather … |
| I'm in the mood for ... | Ho voglia di … Show English translationI'm in the mood for … |
| Either is fine with me. | Per me va bene qualsiasi delle due opzioni. Show English translationEither is fine with me. |
| I'm not very keen on ... | Non mi piace molto … Show English translationI'm not very keen on … |
| What do you like about ...? | Che cosa ti piace di …? Show English translationWhat do you like about …? |
Read the other side of the exchange
Partner
Ti va di andare da un'altra parte?
Would you like to go somewhere else?
You
Preferirei restare qui.
I'd rather stay here.
Partner
Allora restiamo. Che cosa vuoi bere?
Let's stay, then. What would you like to drink?
You
Ho voglia di un caffè.
I'm in the mood for coffee.
Expressing preferences 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.
