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PhrasesAt the Petrol StationPosso comprare benzina in una tanica?
B1

Posso comprare benzina in una tanica?

Can I buy petrol in a jerry can?

Pronunciation

'Tanica' — 'TA-ni-ca'. Three syllables; stress on the first.

When to use it

Ask when a vehicle has run out of fuel elsewhere and you need to carry fuel back to it, or for a generator or lawnmower.

What it means

'Tanica' is a jerry can or fuel container. 'Comprare benzina in una tanica' means buying fuel in a portable container. Italian law limits the amount that can be carried in cans (usually 10–20 litres).

Variations

Vende anche le taniche?

Do you also sell jerry cans?

Asks if they sell the container itself.

Ho finito la benzina. Può aiutarmi?

I've run out of petrol. Can you help me?

Emergency statement — most stations will assist.

Quanti litri posso portare?

How many litres can I carry?

Asks about the legal limit for portable fuel.

Mini Dialogue

— Posso comprare benzina in una tanica? — Sì. Ha una tanica omologata? — No, ne vende lei? — Sì, abbiamo quelle da cinque e da dieci litri.

— Can I buy petrol in a jerry can? — Yes. Do you have an approved jerry can? — No, do you sell them? — Yes, we have five-litre and ten-litre ones.

Cultural Note

In Italy, fuel containers must be 'omologate' (EU-approved) for carrying petrol. Ordinary plastic containers are not legal for fuel transport. Motorway patrol services (ACI) can also bring fuel to stranded drivers.