how to say "Yes" in Italian

How to Say Yes in Italian: Best 41 Ways (w. Audio)

Embarking on the captivating journey of Italian language learning, we’re going to delve into one of the most fundamental yet powerful Italian words – “Yes.”

This isn’t just an ordinary “yes”, but the Italian way of affirming agreement, a pivotal instrument that elegantly mirrors the cultural richness and diversity for which Italian people are renowned.

From a plain “” to a wholehearted “Assolutamente sì,” Italian speakers have an abundance of expressions to convey approval, consent, or positivity.

Today, we will explore the myriad ways to say “yes” in Italian, empowering you to enhance your linguistic repertoire and fully immerse yourself in the Italian lifestyle.

Expressing Affirmation in Italian: Choosing the Right “Yes” for Every Occasion

One of the interesting facts about the Italian language is its emotive quality. Saying “yes” in Italian isn’t just about acquiescing to a statement or request.

The chosen phrase can vividly reflect your feelings, intentions, and even the degree of formality required in different situations. Grasping these subtle shades of meaning is crucial in mastering the Italian art of affirmative responses.

Like a fine Italian vino, the expression you select for “yes” should suit the occasion. It’s not solely about the word itself but also about the unique taste it infuses into the dialogue.

Body language, including facial expressions, a key part of communication for Italians, often complements these phrases, adding a layer of authenticity to the Italian pronunciation of these different words.

This guide will equip you with the right phrases and instruct you on their effective use, akin to matching the perfect wine with your dish.

The 41 Best Ways to Say Yes in Italian

In this section, we’re going to explore an extensive list of 41 ways to say “yes” in Italian. As we journey through different languages, remember that a direct translation often misses the nuances and contexts.

Therefore, alongside each Italian phrase, you’ll find its English counterpart, a succinct description of its application, and a sample sentence for context.

Audio clips will also be provided with each example to support your learning journey and help you nail the Italian pronunciation. With this guide at your disposal, you’ll have a rich palette of Italian affirmative phrases to paint your conversations with.

Sì (Yes)

The simplest and most common way to say “yes.” This is one of the first things you’ll learn when studying Italian questions and answers.

  • Q: Ti piace il gelato? (Q: Do you like ice cream?)
  • A: Sì, mi piace. (A: Yes, I like it.)

Certo / Certamente / Ma certo / Certo che sì (Of course)

These polite phrases express a confident affirmation. They can be used interchangeably.

Using “certo” (the equivalent of “sure thing” or “of course” in English) and its variations is one of the best ways to respond affirmatively to a question.

Using “certamente” to answer a question in Italian is just like saying “certainly” in English.

  • Q: Mi passi il sale, per piacere? (Q: Could you pass me the salt, please?)
  • A: Certamente, eccolo qui. (A: Certainly, here it is.)
  • Suggested Read: Learn how to say please in Italian.

Va bene / Va benone / Va benissimo (Very well / Alright / Very good)

These are used when you’re satisfied or agree with a decision or plan. “Va bene” is arguably one of the most common ways to say Yes in Italian.

It’s a flexible term used in a variety of contexts, from casual chats to more formal settings, much like the English “okay.”

Whether you’re accepting an invitation, confirming an understanding, or acknowledging someone’s statement, “va bene” is a handy phrase to use.

“Va benone” and “Va benissimo” are more colloquial and typically used to express enthusiastic agreement or approval, often with a hint of surprise.

  • Q: Puoi aiutarmi a trovare un regalo italiano per mia madre? (Can you help me find an Italian gift for my mother?)
    A: Va bene, mi farebbe piacere. (Alright, I would be pleased to.)

Senz’altro (Without a doubt)

This strong affirmation is often used when you’re completely sure about something. Of the many common ways to say yes in Italian, this is another great way to express certainty and assurance. It is ideal for instances where you want to leave no room for doubt or ambiguity.

  • Q: Verrai alla festa stasera? (Will you come to the party tonight?)
  • A: Senz’altro, non vedo l’ora! (Without a doubt, I can’t wait!)

Assolutamente / Assolutamente sì (Absolutely)

These English word equivalents of the Italian phrases show complete agreement or consent.

  1. Q: Pensi che dovremmo andare in vacanza insieme? (Do you think we should go on vacation together?)
  2. A: Assolutamente sì! (Absolutely!)

Mastered ‘si’ and ready for more? Dive into our Italian Text Messaging: Ultimate Texting Slang Guide. Ready to level up?

Sicuro / Sicuramente (Sure / Surely)

These phrases can be used to show agreement or assurance.

  • Q: Possiamo discutere di questo argomento? (Can we discuss this topic?)
  • A: Sicuramente, possiamo discutere di questo argomento. (Surely, we can discuss this topic.)

Senza dubbio / Senza ombra di dubbio (Without a doubt / Without a shadow of a doubt)

These are strong affirmations typically used when you’re absolutely certain about something.

  • Senza ombra di dubbio, Venezia è la città più bella che abbia mai visitato. (Without a shadow of a doubt, Venice is the most beautiful city I have ever visited.)

Ci puoi scommettere (You can bet on it)

This informal way to say yes is used to show certainty and confidence. It is most often used at the end of a sentence.

  • Q: Sei sicuro di vincere la gara? (Are you sure you’re going to win the race?)
  • A: Ci puoi scommettere! (You can bet on it!)

Precisamente / Esatto / Esattamente (Precisely / Exactly)

Precisamente, Esatto, and Esattamente are common Italian words that translate to “precisely” and “exactly” in English. They’re employed in situations where you want to convey strong agreement or affirmation.

These expressions confirm your alignment with a statement or opinion and underline the accuracy or correctness of what’s being discussed.

  • Q: L’Italia è famosa per il suo cibo, la moda e l’arte, vero? (Italy is famous for its food, fashion, and art, right?)
  • A: Esatto, hai capito perfettamente! (Exactly, you’ve understood perfectly!)

Recommended Reading: Best App to learn Italian: Top 25 language apps

Vero / Verissimo / Giusto (True / Very true / Correct)

These phrases are used to confirm or agree with a statement or opinion.

  • Q: È vero che hai studiato in Italia per un anno? (Is it true that you studied in Italy for a year?)
  • A: Vero, ho trascorso un anno a Roma per i miei studi. (True, I spent a year in Rome for my studies.)

Ovvio / Ovviamente / Chiaro / Chiaramente (Obvious / Obviously / Clear / Clearly)

In Italian, the adverb form of an adjective, usually made by adding “-mente” to the end of the word, is often used to express agreement or affirmation in a more emphatic or nuanced way.

For example, “Ovvio” (obvious) and its adverb form “Ovviamente” (obviously) and “Chiaro” (clear) with “Chiaramente” (clearly) are used when the speaker wants to convey that something is apparent, evident, or unquestionable.

Adding “-mente” essentially turns the word into an adverb, modifying how the speaker agrees or affirms something. It’s a subtle shift, but it often adds a layer of depth and intensity to the conversation, emphasizing the clarity or obviousness of the situation.

  • Q: Sei andato al lavoro nonostante fossi malato? (Did you go to work even though you were sick?)
  • A: Ovviamente, non volevo lasciare il mio team senza aiuto. (Obviously, I didn’t want to leave my team without help.)

Affermativo / OK / D’accordo (Affirmative / OK / Agreed)

These are universal phrases that are also used in Italian to show agreement or acceptance.

  • Q: Luigi, puoi ordinare la pizza per cena? (Luigi, can you order pizza for dinner?)
  • A: Affermativo, ordinerò la pizza per cena. (Affirmative, I’ll order pizza for dinner.)

Hai voglia / Proprio così / Proprio vero (You bet / That’s right / Very true)

These are emphatic phrases often used in informal situations.

  • Proprio vero, il gelato italiano è il migliore. (Very true, Italian ice cream is the best.)

Suggested Reading: The ultimate guide to the 50 best Italian gelato flavors.

Volentieri / Altroché / Naturalmente / Per forza (Gladly / Indeed / Naturally / Of course)

These phrases express willingness or inevitability.

  • Q: Ti piacerebbe unirti a noi per cena stasera? (Would you like to join us for dinner tonight?)
  • A: Volentieri, mi unirò a voi per cena. (Gladly, I’ll join you for dinner.)

Consideralo già fatto / Già / E così sia / Perché no / Affare fatto (Consider it done / Already / So be it / Why not / Deal done)

These phrases show agreement or acceptance, often used when making a decision or closing a deal.

The phrase “affare fatto” is commonly used in Italian when an agreement is reached, typically in a business or negotiation context. It signifies the conclusion of a discussion with a positive outcome, much like sealing a deal.

  • Q: Il mio ultimo prezzo per questo articolo è 100 euro. (My final price for this item is 100 euros.)
  • A: Affare fatto, lo compro. (Deal done, I’ll buy it.)

Mastering the Italian way of saying “yes” can open up a new dimension of expressiveness in your quest to learn a new language. Each phrase, each nuance, and each affirmation reflects the diversity and richness of Italian culture.

So, why not try using these different ways of saying “yes” the next time you converse in Italian? Language learning is about memorizing words and embracing the language’s culture, nuances, and spirit.

We hope you found these key phrases useful and that it adds a little “sì” to your Italian language journey. Keep practicing these phrases, and soon you’ll be affirming like a native speaker.

And remember, every “yes” in Italian is a step closer to mastering the language and appreciating the beautiful Italian way of life.

Suggested Reading: 47 Best Italian Sayings About Life

Remember to pass this article along to your fellow English speakers who are also embracing the vibrant journey of Italian language learning.

Let’s continue to foster our love for the Italian language and turn every interaction into a delightful learning experience. Grazie mille for your time, and as we often express in Italian, “Arrivederci e buona fortuna con il tuo italiano!” (Goodbye and good luck with your Italian!)

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