How to Say “What Is This?” in Italian
Introduction
If you’re learning Italian or planning to travel to Italy, it’s useful to know how to ask “What is this?” in Italian. Being able to inquire about objects or unfamiliar things will help you navigate your surroundings and engage in conversations with native speakers. In this article, we will explore the common phrase “What is this?” and its translation in Italian, along with some additional related expressions.
How to Say “What Is This?” in Italian
To ask “What is this?” in Italian, you can use the phrase “Cos’è questo?” or “Che cos’è questo?” Here’s a breakdown of the phrase:
“Cos’è” is a contraction of “Che cosa è,” which means “What is.”
“Questo” means “this” and agrees in gender and number with the noun it refers to.
Examples:
“Cos’è questo?” – What is this?
“Che cos’è questo?” – What is this?
You can use these phrases when pointing at an object or when you want to know the name or nature of something you’re unfamiliar with.
Additional Expressions
“Che cosa è?” – This is another way to ask “What is it?” or “What is this?” in Italian. It is more formal and less commonly used in everyday conversations.
“Cosa è?” – This is a shorter and more casual version of “Che cosa è?” It can also be used to ask “What is it?”
“Che è?” – This is an informal and shortened form of “Che cosa è?” It is used in casual conversations to ask “What is it?”
Conclusion
Knowing how to ask “What is this?” in Italian is an important phrase to have in your language repertoire. By using “Cos’è questo?” or “Che cos’è questo?” you can inquire about unfamiliar objects and engage in conversations with Italian speakers. Additionally, familiarizing yourself with related expressions like “Che cosa è?” and “Cosa è?” will provide you with more options to express your curiosity. Practice using these phrases in real-life situations to improve your Italian language skills and confidently navigate your surroundings.
Ir Present Perfect
