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Learn the Italian imperative form "andiamo," the first person plural of "andare," used to suggest or invite joint action. This lesson teaches how to use "andiamo" in everyday contexts, such as making proposals, inviting friends, and giving motivation, with practical examples and a comparison to English usage.
  1. It is the imperative form of "andare" in the first person plural.
Situazione (Situation)Esempio (Example)
Proposta generica (Generic proposal)

Andiamo al supermercato? (Shall we go to the supermarket?)

Andiamo in panetteria a comprare il pane? (Shall we go to the bakery to buy bread?)

Invito tra amici (Invitation among friends)

Andiamo a fare la spesa insieme? (Shall we go shopping together?)

Andiamo a bere qualcosa! (Let's go for a drink!)

Motivare (Encourage)Andiamo, è tardi! (Come on, it's late!)

Exercise 1: Multiple Choice

Instruction: Choose the correct solution

1. ______ al supermercato a comprare il pane?

(______ to the supermarket to buy bread?)

2. ______ a fare la spesa insieme?

(______ to go grocery shopping together?)

3. ______, è tardi! Dobbiamo comprare il latte.

(______, it's late! We have to buy milk.)

4. ______ in panetteria a comprare il pane fresco?

(______ to the bakery to buy fresh bread?)

5. ______ a bere qualcosa dopo la spesa?

(______ to have a drink after shopping?)

6. ______ a chiedere al commesso dove sono le mele?

(______ to ask the clerk where the apples are?)

Understanding the Imperative Form with "Andiamo"

This lesson focuses on the use of the imperative mood in Italian, specifically the first person plural form of the verb andare, which is "andiamo". The imperative is used to give commands, invitations, or suggestions, and andiamo translates roughly to "let's go" or "let's" do something together in English.

Common Situations for Using "Andiamo"

  • Generic Proposals: Making a general suggestion, like "Andiamo al supermercato?" (Shall we go to the supermarket?).
  • Invitations Among Friends: Inviting someone to join an activity, for example, "Andiamo a fare la spesa insieme?" (Shall we shop together?).
  • Motivational Expressions: Encouraging or urging action: "Andiamo, è tardi!" (Come on, it's late!).

Key Features to Remember

The form andiamo is unique because it invites participation from both the speaker and the listener(s), unlike imperative forms directed solely at listeners. It is a polite and inclusive way to suggest joint action.

Useful Examples

  • Andiamo in panetteria a comprare il pane? — Shall we go to the bakery to buy bread?
  • Andiamo a bere qualcosa! — Let's go have a drink!
  • Andiamo a chiedere al commesso dove sono le mele? — Shall we ask the clerk where the apples are?

Comparing Italian and English Imperatives

In English, the equivalent of andiamo is often expressed using "let's" followed by a verb, such as "Let's go." Italian uses a distinct verb form for this, which is less common in English. This imperative form includes the speaker, making it both an invitation and an instruction. For instance, while English says "Let's shop together," Italian says "Andiamo a fare la spesa insieme." Understanding this nuance helps learners grasp the inclusive tone of Italian invitations and commands.

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Fabio Pirioni

Bachelor in Humanities

University of Udine

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Last Updated:

Monday, 14/07/2025 23:23