Italian · Real conversations
Work updates: useful Italian phrases
Explain progress and agree on a priority.
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.
Make the conversation more specific
| What you want to say | Italian |
|---|---|
| to work | lavorare to work |
| to finish | finire to finish |
| to start | iniziare to start |
| Busy | occupato/a Busy |
| I'm working on ... | Sto lavorando a … Show English translationI'm working on … |
| I've finished ... | Ho finito … Show English translationI've finished … |
| I need more time. | Mi serve più tempo. Show English translationI need more time. |
| What's the deadline? | Qual è la scadenza? Show English translationWhat's the deadline? |
| What should I prioritize? | A cosa devo dare la priorità? Show English translationWhat should I prioritize? |
Read the other side of the exchange
Partner
A che cosa stai lavorando oggi?
What are you working on today?
You
Sto lavorando alla relazione.
I'm working on the report.
Partner
A che punto sei con la relazione?
How far have you got with the report?
You
Ho finito la prima bozza.
I've finished the first draft.
Work updates 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.
