Italian Phrase
Posso contare su di te la prossima volta?
Meaning
This phrase is used to ask for assurance or reliability from someone regarding a future event or task. It combines the verb 'potere' (can/to be able to) with the idiomatic expression 'contare su' (to count on/rely on). It implies a level of trust and a request for a commitment.
When to use
Use this when you are planning a future activity and need to confirm someone's participation or support. It is common in both professional settings, like project deadlines, and casual social situations.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Possocontaresu di tela prossima volta
Potere (Posso)
The verb 'potere' means 'can' or 'to be able to'. 'Posso' is the first-person singular present indicative form.
Contare su
This is a phrasal construction where 'contare' (to count) requires the preposition 'su' (on) to mean 'to rely on someone'.
La prossima volta
This phrase uses the feminine definite article 'la' because 'volta' (time/occasion) is a feminine noun.
🗨In Conversation
Mi dispiace, oggi sono proprio occupato.
I'm sorry, I'm really busy today.
Non c'è problema. Posso contare su di te la prossima volta?
No problem. Can I count on you next time?
✕Common Mistakes
Posso contare in te la prossima volta?
The preposition 'su' is always used with 'contare' when it means 'to rely on' in Italian.
Posso contare su di te prossima volta?
In Italian, 'prossima volta' usually requires the definite article 'la' to be grammatically correct.
↔Alternatives
Mi puoi aiutare la prossima volta?
Can you help me next time?
Posso fare affidamento su di te?
Can I rely on you?
Cultural Tip
In Italy, building personal trust (fiducia) is crucial in both business and social circles. Asking this question directly is a way to establish a verbal contract of reliability, which is highly valued in Mediterranean cultures where personal relationships drive professional success.