Italian Phrase
Mi serve un tecnico affidabile.
Meaning
This phrase is used to express a requirement for a professional repair person who is trustworthy and competent. It uses the verb 'servire', which in this context functions similarly to 'to need', though it literally means 'to be of use to'.
When to use
Use this phrase when you have a mechanical or technical problem at home, such as a broken appliance or plumbing issue, and you are asking for a recommendation. It is appropriate for both formal and informal conversations with friends or neighbors.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Miserveuntecnicoaffidabile
Mi serve
This is an impersonal construction where 'mi' is the indirect object (to me) and 'serve' is the third person singular of 'servire'.
Affidabile
This adjective comes from the verb 'affidare' (to entrust) and describes someone who is dependable or reliable.
🗨In Conversation
La mia lavatrice si è rotta di nuovo.
My washing machine broke again.
Accidenti, mi serve un tecnico affidabile per controllarla.
Darn, I need a reliable technician to check it.
✕Common Mistakes
Io serve un tecnico affidabile.
The verb 'servire' agrees with the object being needed, not the person who needs it; use 'mi serve' instead.
Ho bisogno un tecnico affidabile.
The expression 'avere bisogno' always requires the preposition 'di' before the noun.
↔Alternatives
Ho bisogno di un tecnico bravo.
I need a good technician.
Cerco un tecnico di fiducia.
I am looking for a trusted technician.
Cultural Tip
In Italy, finding a 'tecnico di fiducia' (a trusted technician) is highly valued, and people usually rely on 'passaparola' (word of mouth) rather than online directories. Asking for someone 'affidabile' implies you want someone who is honest about prices and won't disappear mid-job.