Italian Phrase
Mi serve una lampadina nuova.
Meaning
This phrase is the standard way to express that you require a replacement light bulb. It uses the verb 'servire', which in this context means 'to be needed by someone'. The structure literally translates to 'To me is needed a light bulb new'.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are at a hardware store (ferramenta) or a supermarket and need assistance finding a bulb. It is also perfect for telling a roommate or landlord that a light has burnt out.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Miserveunalampadinanuova
Indirect Object 'Mi'
In this construction, 'mi' means 'to me'. The thing being needed is actually the subject of the sentence.
The verb 'Servire'
Unlike 'avere bisogno', 'servire' agrees with the object needed. If you needed multiple bulbs, you would say 'mi servono'.
Adjective Placement
The adjective 'nuova' follows the noun 'lampadina', which is the standard position for descriptive adjectives in Italian.
🗨In Conversation
Perché è così buio in cucina?
Why is it so dark in the kitchen?
Si è fulminata la luce, mi serve una lampadina nuova.
The light burnt out, I need a new light bulb.
✕Common Mistakes
Io ho bisogno una lampadina nuova.
The expression 'avere bisogno' must be followed by the preposition 'di' (ho bisogno di).
Mi serve un lampadina nuovo.
Lampadina is a feminine noun, so the article must be 'una' and the adjective must be 'nuova'.
↔Alternatives
Ho bisogno di una lampadina nuova.
I have need of a new light bulb.
Devo cambiare la lampadina.
I need to change the light bulb.
Cultural Tip
In Italy, when buying a light bulb, you should specify the 'attacco' (the socket type). The most common are 'attacco grande' (E27) and 'attacco piccolo' (E14). If you aren't sure, it is very common to bring the old burnt-out bulb with you to the store to show the clerk.