A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "This is my grandma" in Italian
Learn how to introduce your grandmother in Italian with this simple, natural phrase used for family introductions across Italy.
Questa è mia nonna.
KWES-ta eh MEE-ah NON-naneutral
Italian TTS · 0:01
Use this when introducing your grandmother to friends, neighbors, or shopkeepers. It is the standard way to present a family member in any social setting, from a casual dinner to a formal meeting.
Alternatives
- Ti presento mia nonna.Use this when you want to be slightly more polite or formal.
- Lei è mia nonna.Use this when pointing her out in a group or a photo.
- Questa qui è la mia nonna.Use this in a very casual, affectionate, or informal context.
Ways to get it wrong
Overusing the article
Avoid saying 'la mia nonna' in this specific sentence structure, as Italian grammar omits the article before singular family members.
Mispronouncing the double 'n'
Make sure to hold the 'n' sound in 'nonna' slightly longer than in English to avoid sounding like you are saying a different word.
A small cultural note
Italians are often very close to their grandmothers, so introducing her with pride is a great way to build rapport. In some regions, you might hear people use 'nonnina' as an affectionate diminutive.
Frequently asked
How do I introduce my grandfather?
You simply change the gender of the words to 'Questo è mio nonno.' The structure remains identical to the one used for your grandmother.
Should I use tu or Lei when introducing family?
The phrase itself doesn't change based on who you are talking to. You use the same words whether you are addressing a peer or someone you need to show respect to.
What if I have two grandmothers?
You would say 'Questa è mia nonna' for each one individually. If you are referring to them as a pair, you would say 'Queste sono le mie nonne'.
