Subject Pronouns in Italian
Subject pronouns tell us who is doing the action. In Italian, they are often optional because the verb ending already shows who is speaking, but learning them is essential for beginners!
The Pronouns
- io – I
- tu – you (singular, informal)
- lui – he
- lei – she / you (singular, formal)
- noi – we
- voi – you (plural)
- loro – they
Key Rules
Unlike English, Italian distinguishes between informal and formal 'you'. Use tu with friends, children, and pets. Use lei when speaking politely to strangers, elders, or people in authority.
Common Mistakes
Beginners often mix up lui (he) and lei (she). Remember: lui is male, and lei is female.
Words
io
I
Io sono Marco.I am Marco.
tu
you
Tu sei Anna.You are Anna.
lui
he
Lui è italiano.He is Italian.
lei
she
Lei è simpatica.She is nice.
noi
we
Noi siamo studenti.We are students.
voi
you (plural)
Voi siete pronti.You are ready.
loro
they
Loro sono amici.They are friends.
sono
I am
Io sono felice.I am happy.
Lessons are prepared with the help of AI.
Patterns
Io sono ___
Use this pattern to say what your name, nationality, or profession is.
Io sono italiano.I am Italian.
Tu sei ___
Use this pattern to describe someone you are talking to informally.
Tu sei simpatico.You are nice.