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PhrasesInternship ConversationsPosso usare la stampante dell'ufficio?
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Posso usare la stampante dell'ufficio?

Can I use the office printer?

Pronunciation

'Stampante' = stam-PAN-teh. Four syllables; stress the second.

When to use it

Use this any time you need to use shared office equipment. Always ask before using equipment that belongs to the office, especially as an intern. It shows respect for company resources.

What it means

'Posso' + infinitive is the most natural way to ask for permission in Italian. 'Dell'ufficio' (of the office) specifies it is the shared company printer, not a personal one.

Variations

Come si usa la fotocopiatrice?

How does one use the photocopier?

Asks for instruction rather than permission — appropriate if you have already been told to use it

Quante pagine posso stampare al massimo?

How many pages can I print at most?

Shows awareness of limits and respect for resources

C'è un codice per usare la stampante?

Is there a code to use the printer?

Practical; many Italian offices use departmental print codes

Mini Dialogue

Tirocinante: Scusa, posso usare la stampante dell'ufficio? Collega: Sì certo. Devi solo inserire il codice di reparto: 2205. Tirocinante: Grazie! È in rete con tutti i computer? Collega: Sì, la trovi già installata. Si chiama 'Stampa Ufficio 2'.

Intern: Excuse me, can I use the office printer? Colleague: Yes of course. You just need to enter the department code: 2205. Intern: Thank you! Is it networked with all the computers? Colleague: Yes, you will find it already installed. It is called 'Office Printer 2'.

Cultural Note

Italian companies track printing costs by department. Using the printer responsibly — only for work documents — is expected. Personal printing, even minimal, can be frowned upon and is considered unprofessional.