This is broken.
'Rotto' — 'ROT-to'. Double 't', stress on first syllable. Sharp, clear pronunciation.
When you find a defect — a legitimate reason to push the price down, or to reject the item entirely. Always check items carefully before agreeing a price.
'Rotto' = broken (past participle of 'rompere', used as adjective). 'Difettoso' = defective. 'Ammaccato' = dented. Finding a defect gives you strong bargaining leverage — use it calmly.
Ha un difetto qui.
It has a defect here.
Pointing to a specific flaw — more precise than 'rotto'
È graffiato.
It's scratched.
'Graffiato' = scratched — common defect on metal or ceramic items
La cerniera non funziona.
The zip doesn't work.
Specific defect — 'cerniera' = zip/zipper
At Italian antique markets, minor defects ('piccoli difetti') are often accepted as signs of age and authenticity rather than flaws. For vintage items, sellers may argue that imperfections add to the 'patina' and historical charm of the piece.