Italian Phrase
Cosa vuoi che io faccia?
Meaning
This phrase is a direct way to ask for instructions or guidance based on someone else's desires. It utilizes the subjunctive mood ('faccia') because it follows a verb expressing a wish or demand ('vuoi che'). It translates literally to 'What do you want that I do?'
When to use
Use this phrase when you are looking for specific directions or want to know how you can help in a given situation. It is appropriate for both formal workplace discussions and informal personal conversations.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Cosavuoicheiofaccia
Vuoi che
The construction 'volere + che' triggers the subjunctive mood in the following verb because it expresses a desire for someone else's action.
Faccia
This is the present subjunctive of 'fare' (to do/make). It is used here instead of the indicative 'faccio' to comply with the grammatical requirement of the main clause.
🗨In Conversation
Non sono contento del risultato di questo lavoro.
I am not happy with the result of this work.
Mi dispiace. Cosa vuoi che io faccia per rimediare?
I'm sorry. What do you want me to do to fix it?
✕Common Mistakes
Cosa vuoi che io faccio?
The verb must be in the subjunctive mood ('faccia') after 'vuoi che'.
Cosa vuoi me fare?
Avoid direct translation from English; Italian requires a 'che' clause with a conjugated verb rather than an infinitive.
↔Alternatives
Che cosa devo fare?
What do I have to do?
Cosa vorresti che facessi?
What would you like me to do? (More polite)
Cultural Tip
Using the subjunctive mood correctly, as in 'faccia', is often seen as a sign of education and fluency in Italy. While informal speech sometimes replaces it with the indicative in certain regions, sticking to the subjunctive in this context ensures you sound polite and grammatically accurate everywhere.