Ho bisogno di un cuscino extra.

I need an extra pillow.

Pronunciation

cu-SCI-no — three syllables, stress on the second. 'sc' before 'i' = 'sh'.

When to use it

A simple request that reception will fulfil immediately, usually within minutes.

What it means

'Ho bisogno di' + noun is the standard Italian expression for 'I need'. 'Cuscino' = pillow. 'Extra' is used in Italian just as in English. Pillow comfort is personal — do not hesitate to ask for more or different pillows.

Variations

Ho bisogno di un cuscino più sodo.

I need a firmer pillow.

Specify firmness preference

Posso avere un cuscino in più?

Can I have one more pillow?

Alternative request using 'in più' (more/extra)

I cuscini sono troppo morbidi.

The pillows are too soft.

Describe the problem so staff bring an appropriate alternative

Mini Dialogue

— Ho bisogno di un cuscino extra. Ce n'è solo uno. — Certamente. Lo standard è uno ma possiamo portarne un secondo. — Grazie. Preferibilmente di piuma se ne avete. — Controlliamo. Se no, il sintetico va bene?

— I need an extra pillow. There is only one. — Certainly. The standard is one but we can bring a second. — Thank you. Preferably down if you have it. — We will check. If not, is synthetic okay?

Cultural Note

Italian hotels traditionally provide one pillow per person in a standard room. Northern European and American guests often want more. Do not hesitate to ask — extra pillows are always available. Some high-end hotels offer a 'pillow menu' with different fillings and firmnesses.

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Il frigorifero non funziona.

La porta del balcone non è a tenuta stagna.

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