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a presto
/a ˈprɛ.sto/
see you soon
Ci vediamo a presto!
See you soon!
informal
An informal farewell phrase used to indicate that you will see someone again very soon, often within a short time frame.
Grazie per l'aiuto! A presto!
Thanks for the help! See you soon!
Ci sentiamo a presto!
Talk to you soon!
Commonly used in both spoken and written Italian, especially in casual or friendly contexts. It implies a quick or imminent reunion.
Collocations
a presto allorasee you soon thena presto doposee you soon after
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Casual vs. Formal Tone
Use 'a presto' with friends, family, or colleagues you have a close relationship with. For formal or professional settings, opt for 'arrivederci' or 'a presto' followed by a title and surname (e.g., 'A presto, Dottore').
Gold Rule
Imminent Reunion
'A presto' implies a quick or imminent meeting, often within hours or days. If the reunion is planned for a distant future, use 'a più tardi' (see you later) or 'a dopo' (see you later).
Word Origin
The phrase combines the preposition 'a' (to) with 'presto' (soon/early). 'Presto' derives from Latin 'praestus' (ready, prompt), which evolved into Old Italian 'presto' meaning 'soon' or 'early'. The phrase has been used in Italian since at least the 14th century in farewell contexts.
Usage Notes
While 'a presto' is universally understood, it is most appropriate in informal settings. In formal contexts, 'arrivederci' or 'a presto' with a surname (e.g., 'A presto, Signor Rossi') may be used. It is less common in northern Italy, where 'a dopo' or 'a più tardi' might be preferred.
Word Breakdown
a
to
prepositionpresto
soon/early
adverbDizionario Italiano-Inglese