Italian Phrase
Dobbiamo sistemarlo presto.
Meaning
This phrase expresses a collective obligation or necessity to resolve a situation, repair an object, or organize something. The verb 'sistemare' is extremely common in Italian and can mean to fix, tidy up, or settle an issue.
When to use
Use this phrase when you and a partner or group identify a problem that needs immediate attention, such as a broken appliance, a disorganized plan, or a pending task.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Dobbiamosistemarlopresto
Dobbiamo
The first-person plural present tense of the modal verb 'dovere', meaning 'we must' or 'we have to'.
Sistemarlo
This is the infinitive 'sistemare' with the direct object pronoun 'lo' (it) attached to the end.
Presto
An adverb meaning 'soon' or 'early', used to indicate the timeframe of the required action.
🗨In Conversation
Il rubinetto in cucina perde ancora.
The kitchen faucet is still leaking.
Hai ragione, dobbiamo sistemarlo presto.
You're right, we must fix it soon.
✕Common Mistakes
Dobbiamo fixarlo presto.
Avoid using the anglicism 'fixare'; 'sistemare' or 'riparare' are the correct Italian terms.
Dobbiamo sistemare lo presto.
Direct object pronouns like 'lo' must be attached to the end of the infinitive verb.
↔Alternatives
Dobbiamo ripararlo subito.
We must repair it immediately.
Bisogna risolverlo al più presto.
It is necessary to resolve it as soon as possible.
Cultural Tip
The verb 'sistemare' is a linguistic Swiss Army knife in Italy. It is used for everything from 'sistemare la camera' (tidying the room) to 'sistemare una faccenda' (settling a matter), reflecting a cultural emphasis on restoring order or functionality.