permesso
excuse me (may I pass), permission
Beginner Interjection Masculine
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Pronunciation
/per.ˈmes.so/
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Cultural Note
Permesso is uniquely Italian — you say it when physically passing through a space: a crowded bus, someone's doorway, or a busy market. When visiting someone's home, you say 'permesso?' at the door before entering, even if invited. It literally means 'permitted?' and is an essential part of Italian spatial courtesy.
📝 Example Sentences
Permesso, devo passare!
Excuse me, I need to get through!
Permesso? Posso entrare?
May I? Can I come in?
Permesso, permesso... scusate!
Excuse me, excuse me... sorry!