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PhrasesOn the TrainMi scusi, mio figlio è un po' vivace. Speriamo non disturbi.
B2formal

Mi scusi, mio figlio è un po' vivace. Speriamo non disturbi.

I'm sorry, my son is a bit lively. I hope he doesn't disturb you.

Pronunciation

vi-VA-ce — stress on second syllable. dis-TUR-bi — stress on second syllable.

When to use it

When sitting with children in a carriage with other passengers — a proactive, courteous gesture.

What it means

'Vivace' (lively) is a diplomatic word for an energetic child. 'Speriamo non disturbi' (I hope he doesn't disturb) uses 'sperare' (to hope) + subjunctive 'disturbi'. This pre-emptive apology is a sign of Italian social courtesy and usually generates goodwill from fellow passengers.

Variations

Se il bambino dà fastidio, me lo dica pure.

If the child bothers you, please tell me.

Showing willingness to manage the situation

Purtroppo è difficile viaggiare con bambini piccoli.

Unfortunately it's difficult to travel with small children.

Fellow parents will empathise

Mi scusi per il disturbo.

I'm sorry for the disturbance.

General apology after any disruptive episode

Mini Dialogue

— Mi scusi, mio figlio è un po' vivace. Speriamo non disturbi. — Non si preoccupi, ho quattro figli — so cosa vuol dire! — Grazie per la comprensione. — Figuriamoci. Si sieda tranquillo.

— I'm sorry, my son is a bit lively. I hope he doesn't disturb you. — Don't worry, I have four children — I know what it means! — Thank you for your understanding. — Don't mention it. Sit down and relax.

Cultural Note

Italian culture is very child-friendly — bambini are celebrated rather than merely tolerated in public spaces. Fellow travellers are usually understanding of children's behaviour on trains. However, the quiet carriage (vagone silenzio) is strictly adult-oriented. Families with children are encouraged to use the family compartment or the bar carriage area.