Italian Discourse Markers

Demanding attention or causing a break in discourse can help to structure conversation and strengthen an argument. In Italian, there are several words and phrases used for this purpose.

Purpose and Usage

Discourse markers are words or phrases that are used to manage, connect, and organise what we say or write. They’re extremely valuable in spoken language for organising speech and conveying the speaker’s attitudes.

In written texts, they aid coherence by linking sentences and ideas, and they can convey the writer’s attitude towards the propositions.

Common Discourse Markers

Here are some common Italian discourse markers and their English equivalents:

Allora: then/so/well
Dunque/Quindi: so/therefore
Cioè: that is/i.e.
Inoltre: moreover/furthermore
Infatti: in fact/actually/therefore
Comunque: however/anyway
Adesso/Ora: now
Finalmente: finally
Poi: then/later

Connecting Statements

Italian discourse markers are often used to connect statements or ideas.

‘Dunque’ and ‘quindi’ indicate a result or consequence. E.g., “Sono stanco, quindi vado a casa” - I’m tired, so I’m going home.
‘Inoltre’ is used to add further information or points. E.g., “Vorrei visitare l’Italia. Inoltre, vorrei imparare l’italiano” - I would like to visit Italy. Furthermore, I would like to learn Italian.

Indicating Time

Discourse markers can also be used to indicate time or sequence.

‘Adesso’ or ‘ora’ indicate the present time. E.g., “Adesso, sto studiando Italiano” - Now, I am studying Italian.
‘Finalmente’ is used to show relief that something has happened. E.g., “Finalmente, ho finito i compiti” - Finally, I have finished the homework.
‘Poi’ can be used to explain the next step or stages in a process. E.g., “Poi, andiamo al cinema” - Then, we go to the cinema.

Signalling Agreement or Contradiction

Discourse markers can be used to either agree with or contradict a previous statement.

‘Infatti’ is used to confirm or agree with a previous statement. E.g., “E’ molto freddo. Infatti, nevica” - It’s very cold. In fact, it’s snowing.
‘Comunque’ can contradict a previous statement. E.g., “Non mi piacciono i gatti. Comunque, ho due gatti a casa” - I don’t like cats. However, I have two cats at home.

Revise and practice these common discourse markers to enhance your Italian conversational and written skills as they not only clear but also more engaging.