A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "I'll think about it" in Italian
A polite way to defer a decision in Italian shops, giving you time to consider.
Ci penso.
CHEE PEN-sohneutral
Italian TTS · 0:01
Use this when a shopkeeper suggests an item or a price and you're not ready to commit. It's a gentle way to say you need more time before buying.
Alternatives
- Ci rifletto.Slightly more formal, implies deeper consideration.
- Ci penso su.More informal, often used with friends or in very casual settings.
Ways to get it wrong
Confusing 'penso' with 'pensa'
'Penso' is 'I think', while 'pensa' is 'he/she/you (formal) thinks'.
Pronouncing 'ci' like 'see'
The 'ci' sound is like 'chee' in 'cheese', not 'see'.
A small cultural note
Italians often appreciate a moment to consider a purchase, and this phrase respects that without being overly dismissive.
Frequently asked
When should I use 'Ci penso' instead of just saying no?
'Ci penso' is a softer way to decline immediately. It leaves the door open for you to return or reconsider later.
Is 'Ci penso' rude in Italian shops?
Not at all. It's a standard and polite way to indicate you need time to decide, common in retail settings.
What if I want to say 'I'll think about it' about something other than shopping?
The phrase 'Ci penso' works in many contexts, like when someone asks for a favor or proposes a plan. The meaning of needing time to decide remains the same.
