FastItalian LearningSign in
PhrasesMaking FriendsPossiamo darci del tu, se vuoi.
B1formal

Possiamo darci del tu, se vuoi.

We can use the informal 'you' with each other, if you like.

Pronunciation

'Darci' = DAR-ci. 'Vuoi' = VU-oi — two syllables.

When to use it

Use this when you have been speaking formally (using 'Lei') and wish to transition to informal speech (using 'tu'). This moment is socially significant in Italian culture and marks the beginning of a closer relationship.

What it means

'Darsi del tu' means to use the informal 'tu' with each other — literally 'to give each other the tu'. 'Darsi del Lei' means to use the formal 'you'. This distinction is important in Italian professional and social settings where formal speech is still common.

Variations

Da adesso usiamo il tu?

Shall we use 'tu' from now on?

Less formal way to suggest the same transition

Non c'è bisogno di darsi del Lei tra di noi.

There is no need for formalities between us.

Dismissing the formal register entirely

Chiamami pure per nome.

Feel free to call me by my first name.

An English equivalent — using first names instead of titles

Mini Dialogue

— Dottoressa Rossi, la ringrazio per il suo tempo. — Ma prego! E possiamo darci del tu, se vuoi. Sono Chiara. — Volentieri! Io sono Andrea. — Benissimo, Andrea. Allora a presto!

— Dr Rossi, thank you for your time. — Not at all! And we can use the informal 'you' with each other, if you like. I am Chiara. — Gladly! I am Andrea. — Wonderful, Andrea. See you soon then!

Cultural Note

The tu/Lei distinction is a significant social ritual in Italian. In many Italian workplaces and especially in older companies, the formal 'Lei' is maintained even between long-term colleagues. Younger Italians and startup culture trend toward immediate 'tu', but offering to switch is always an act of social warmth and generosity.