Yes/No Questions

In brief

To ask a yes/no question in Italian, you can keep the same word order as in a statement. Your voice usually rises at the end; in writing, add a question mark.

Form

Statement: Parli italiano. → Question: Parli italiano? The verb keeps its usual form.

Usage

• Use a question to check a simple fact or ask about someone’s plans.
• You can leave out the subject pronoun when the verb form makes the subject clear: Sei pronto?

Examples

• Parli italiano? — Do you speak Italian?
• Hai tempo oggi? — Do you have time today?
• La pizza è pronta? — Is the pizza ready?

Common mistake

❌ Fai tu parli italiano?

✅ Parli italiano?

Do not add an equivalent of English auxiliary ‘do’ to form an Italian yes/no question. Use the ordinary verb form and question intonation.

Remember

Italian does not need English-style ‘do’ or a change in word order to make a basic yes/no question.