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PhrasesAt the HairdresserQuanto devo aspettare?
A1

Quanto devo aspettare?

How long do I have to wait?

Pronunciation

Stress 'as-pet-TA-re'. Simple, direct question.

When to use it

Ask this when you arrive at the salon and are not sure how long before your stylist is available, especially if you're on a tight schedule.

What it means

'Quanto devo aspettare' = how long must I wait. 'Devo' = I must/have to (from 'dovere'). 'Aspettare' = to wait. Very simple and direct — suitable for all contexts. 'Quanto tempo' can be added: 'Quanto tempo devo aspettare?'

Variations

C'è molto da aspettare?

Is there long to wait?

Vaguer version.

Sono in anticipo. Posso aspettare qui?

I'm early. Can I wait here?

When you've arrived early.

Ho fretta. È possibile prima di me?

I'm in a hurry. Is it possible to go before?

Requesting priority.

Mini Dialogue

— Ho un appuntamento alle tre. Quanto devo aspettare? — La mia cliente di adesso sta quasi finendo. Circa dieci minuti. — Perfetto, grazie. Aspetto qui. — Si accomodi pure. Vuole un caffè mentre aspetta?

— I have an appointment at three. How long do I have to wait? — My current client is almost done. About ten minutes. — Perfect, thank you. I'll wait here. — Please have a seat. Would you like a coffee while you wait?

Cultural Note

Italian salons almost always offer waiting clients a 'caffè' (espresso) or 'un po' d'acqua' (some water). This hospitality gesture ('accoglienza') is standard and part of the Italian service culture. Refusing politely with 'No grazie, va bene così' is perfectly acceptable.