A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "I don't know" in Italian
The essential Italian phrase 'Non lo so' to express uncertainty politely and directly.
Non lo so
non loh SOHneutral
Italian TTS · 0:01
Use this when someone asks you a question and you genuinely don't have the answer. It's perfect for situations like not knowing the time, the price of an item, or the best route to a place.
Alternatives
- Non sapreiSlightly more hesitant, implying you *might* know but aren't sure.
- BohVery casual, often accompanied by a shrug, used among friends.
Ways to get it wrong
Confusing 'sapere' and 'conoscere'
Use 'sapere' (to know facts/information) for 'Non lo so', not 'conoscere' (to be acquainted with people/places).
Pronouncing 'lo' like 'low'
The 'o' in 'lo' is short and open, like the 'o' in 'hot'.
A small cultural note
Italians sometimes use a shrug and a 'Boh!' to convey 'I don't know' very casually, but 'Non lo so' is always safe.
Frequently asked
How to say I don't know in Italian politely?
The most common and polite way is 'Non lo so'. It's a neutral phrase suitable for most interactions.
Is 'Non lo so' formal or informal?
'Non lo so' is considered neutral and can be used in both casual and more formal settings. It's the go-to phrase.
What's a more casual way to say I don't know in Italian?
Among friends or in very relaxed situations, you can use 'Boh!', often with a shrug. It's much more informal than 'Non lo so'.
How do Italians say "I don't know"?
The most common way to say "I don't know" in Italian is "Non lo so." This is a direct translation and widely understood.
What is "non lo so"?
"Non lo so" is the Italian phrase for "I don't know." It is composed of "non" (not) and "lo so" (I know it).
How do you say "Sorry, I don't know" in Italian?
To say "Sorry, I don't know" in Italian, you can use "Mi dispiace, non lo so." This politely expresses that you lack the information.
What is the Italian slang for "I don't know"?
A common slang way to say "I don't know" in Italian is "Boh." It's a very informal and quick expression.
