Phrases › At the Clothing Store › Quanto tempo ci vuole per le modifiche?

Quanto tempo ci vuole per le modifiche?

How long do alterations take?

Pronunciation

'Modifiche' — 'mo-DI-fi-ke'. Four syllables. The 'ch' before 'e' is hard 'k' sound.

When to use it

When an item fits well overall but needs adjusting. Alterations are widely available in Italy and not just for expensive clothes.

What it means

'Quanto tempo ci vuole' = how long does it take (impersonal). 'Ci vuole' is used for time/quantities needed. 'Le modifiche' = the alterations. 'Le' because 'modifica' is feminine.

Variations

Fate modifiche in negozio?

Do you do alterations in-store?

Checking if they offer the service

Quanto costano le modifiche?

How much do alterations cost?

Asking about the price of alterations

Potete accorciare i pantaloni?

Can you shorten the trousers?

Specifying the most common alteration

Mini Dialogue

Cliente: I pantaloni vanno bene di vita ma sono troppo lunghi. Fate modifiche? Commessa: Sì, abbiamo una sarta interna. Quanto tempo ci vuole? Di solito tre o quattro giorni. Cliente: Posso ritirarli giovedì? Commessa: Sì, senza problemi.

Customer: The trousers fit well at the waist but are too long. Do you do alterations? Assistant: Yes, we have an in-house seamstress. How long does it take? Usually three or four days. Customer: Can I collect them on Thursday? Assistant: Yes, no problem.

Cultural Note

Italy has a strong culture of tailoring and alterations. Even mid-range shops may have a resident 'sarta' (seamstress) or 'sarto' (tailor). Shortening trousers, taking in waists and adjusting sleeves are standard services.

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Ha gli accessori abbinati?

C'è uno specchio?

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