A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "I'm doing well" in Italian
The standard Italian response when asked 'How are you?' and you're doing fine.
Sto bene
stoh BEN-ehneutral
Italian TTS · 0:01
This is the most common and direct answer when someone asks 'Come stai?' (How are you?). It's a polite and standard way to say you're feeling well. You can use it in almost any situation.
Alternatives
- Tutto beneMeans 'All good,' often used as a quick, positive reply.
- Bene, grazieAdds politeness by including 'thank you'.
Ways to get it wrong
Confusing 'bene' with 'buono'
'Bene' is an adverb meaning 'well,' while 'buono' is an adjective meaning 'good.'
Omitting 'sto'
While 'Bene' alone is understood, 'Sto bene' is the full, correct verb phrase for 'I am well.'
A small cultural note
Italians often ask 'Come stai?' as a genuine greeting, and 'Sto bene' is the expected, polite response unless you have a specific reason to elaborate.
Frequently asked
What to say after 'Sto bene'?
You can add 'E tu?' (And you?) to ask them back, or 'Grazie' (Thank you) for their concern.
Is 'Sto bene' always the right answer?
It's the most common and generally safe answer. If you're not doing well, you would use a different phrase.
How to say 'I'm doing great' in Italian?
You can say 'Sto benissimo' for 'I'm doing very well' or 'Sto alla grande' for a more enthusiastic 'I'm doing great.'
