A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "Help" in Italian
The essential Italian word for 'help!' when you're in a bind and need assistance immediately.
Aiuto!
ah-YOO-tohcasual
Italian TTS · 0:01
Shout this if you're in immediate danger or witnessing a serious emergency, like a medical crisis or a crime in progress. It's a strong call for attention and aid.
Alternatives
- Mi aiuti, per favore?Use for a polite, specific request for assistance.
- Ho bisogno di aiuto.A more descriptive way to say you need help, less of an urgent cry.
Ways to get it wrong
Confusing 'aiuto' with 'aiutare'
'Aiuto' is the noun 'help' or the interjection 'help!', while 'aiutare' is the verb 'to help'.
Pronouncing 'gi' like 'g'
The 'gi' in 'aiuto' sounds like the 'j' in 'judge', not a hard 'g'.
A small cultural note
While 'Aiuto!' is universally understood, Italians might also try to get attention by calling out 'Scusi!' (Excuse me!) or 'Per favore!' (Please!) to a specific person before resorting to a louder cry.
Frequently asked
When do I use 'Aiuto!' vs 'Mi aiuti?'
'Aiuto!' is a shout for immediate, often emergency, help. 'Mi aiuti, per favore?' is a polite request for assistance with a specific task.
Is 'Aiuto!' too dramatic for everyday situations?
Yes, 'Aiuto!' implies a serious or urgent situation. For everyday needs, like asking for directions, use a more polite phrase.
How to say 'Can you help me?' politely?
You can say 'Mi aiuti, per favore?' (informal 'tu') or 'Mi può aiutare, per favore?' (formal 'Lei').
