A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "This is my cousin" in Italian
Introduce your male cousin in Italian with this simple, direct phrase. Perfect for family gatherings.
Questo è mio cugino.
KWES-toh eh MEE-oh koo-JEE-nohneutral
Italian TTS · 0:01
Use this when you're introducing your male cousin to someone for the first time. It's a straightforward way to establish the relationship.
Alternatives
- Lui è mio cugino.Use 'Lui' (He) when the person has already been mentioned or is the subject of conversation.
- Questo è il mio cugino.Adding 'il' (the) is also common and grammatically correct, though slightly less direct.
Ways to get it wrong
Pronouncing 'questo'
Make sure to clearly pronounce both 's' sounds; it's not 'kwesto'.
Confusing 'cugino' and 'cugina'
'Cugino' is for a male cousin; use 'cugina' for a female cousin.
A small cultural note
Italians often have very close relationships with their cousins, so introducing them is common and expected.
Frequently asked
How to say this is my female cousin?
You would say 'Questa è mia cugina.' The feminine forms 'questa' and 'mia' are used.
Is 'cugino' formal or informal?
The word 'cugino' itself is neutral. The formality of the situation depends on how you say it and who you are talking to.
Can I use 'questo' for people?
Yes, 'questo' can be used to refer to people, especially when introducing them. It's a common and natural usage.
