10 Ways to Say 'Please' in Italian

Saying 'please' is an important part of showing politeness and respect in any language, including Italian. If you're looking to expand your Italian vocabulary and learn different ways to say 'please', we have compiled a list of 10 alternatives for you:

  1. Per favore - This is the most common and straightforward way to say 'please' in Italian. It can be used in both formal and informal situations.
  2. Per piacere - This phrase is similar to 'per favore' and can be used interchangeably. It is commonly used in everyday conversations.
  3. Ti prego - This phrase translates to 'I beg you' and is used when making a heartfelt request or pleading for something.
  4. Per cortesia - This phrase translates to 'out of courtesy' and conveys a sense of politeness and respect.
  5. Sia gentile - This phrase translates to 'be kind' and is often used to politely ask someone to do something.
  6. Per amor del cielo - Literally meaning 'for the love of heaven', this phrase is used to emphasize a request or to plead for something.
  7. Con permesso - This phrase means 'with permission' and is used to politely ask for someone's permission or to excuse yourself.
  8. Prego - Although 'prego' is commonly used as a response to 'grazie' (thank you), it can also be used to mean 'please' in certain contexts, such as offering someone a seat or inviting them to go first.
  9. La prego - This is a more formal way to say 'please' and is often used in professional settings or when speaking to someone older or in a higher position.
  10. Faccia il piacere - This phrase translates to 'do me the favor' and is used to politely ask someone to do something for you.

Here are a couple of examples to help you understand how to use these phrases in context:

Example 1:

Italian: Posso avere un caffè, per favore?

English: Can I have a coffee, please?

Example 2:

Italian: Sia gentile e mi passi il sale, per cortesia.

English: Please be kind and pass me the salt.

By using these different phrases for 'please' in Italian, you can add variety to your language skills and enhance your ability to communicate politely and respectfully.


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