A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "My pleasure" in Italian
The versatile Italian phrase 'Prego' is your go-to for 'you're welcome,' 'please,' and 'go ahead.'
Prego
PREH-gohneutral
Italian TTS · 0:01
Use 'Prego' when someone thanks you for something, like a gift or a favor. It's also your polite way to offer something or invite someone to proceed.
Alternatives
- Di nienteMore casual, literally 'of nothing.'
- Non c'è di cheSlightly more formal, meaning 'there's nothing to thank me for.'
Ways to get it wrong
Don't say 'Mio piacere'
'Mio piacere' is a literal translation and sounds very strange in Italian.
Confusing 'Prego' with 'Per favore'
'Prego' is for 'you're welcome' or 'go ahead,' while 'Per favore' is strictly for 'please' when asking for something.
A small cultural note
While 'Prego' is the standard, some older Italians might use 'Ci mancherebbe' (literally 'it would be missing') to mean 'don't mention it,' but 'Prego' is universally understood.
Frequently asked
When do Italians say prego?
Italians say 'Prego' most commonly when responding to 'Grazie' (thank you). It also means 'please' when offering something or inviting someone to go ahead.
Is prego formal or informal?
'Prego' is a neutral term that works in nearly all social contexts, whether you're speaking casually or formally.
What's another way to say you're welcome in Italian?
Besides 'Prego,' you can use 'Di niente' for a more casual feel or 'Non c'è di che' for a slightly more formal response.
