Italian Phrase
È molto gentile.
Meaning
Literally ‘He/She/It is very kind.’ The sentence is a polite compliment that highlights a person’s courteous behaviour. It can also be used in a more general sense to describe a kind action or gesture.
When to use
Use it right after someone has done something helpful, friendly, or considerate—whether you’re speaking to a friend, a colleague, or a stranger you just met. It works in both formal and informal settings, though the tone is slightly more polished than a casual ‘sei gentile’.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Èmoltogentile
È (essere)
Third‑person singular present of the verb *essere* (to be). It can also be used for the formal 'you' (Lei) in polite contexts.
molto (adverb)
An adverb meaning ‘very’. It modifies adjectives and other adverbs without changing form.
gentile (adjective)
Means ‘kind, nice, courteous’. It agrees in gender and number with the subject (gentile/gentili, gentile/gentili).
🗨In Conversation
Grazie per avermi tenuto la porta.
Thank you for holding the door for me.
È molto gentile.
That’s very kind of you.
✕Common Mistakes
Sei molto gentile.
Use *sei* only when you are directly addressing the person. *È* is for third‑person or formal ‘you’ (Lei).
È molto gentili.
The adjective must agree with the subject. Use *gentili* only with a plural subject and change the verb to *sono*.
Molto è gentile.
Adverbs like *molto* precede the adjective, not the verb.
↔Alternatives
È davvero gentile.
He/She is really kind.
Sei molto gentile.
You are very kind.
Che gentile!
How kind!
Cultural Tip
In Italy, complimenting someone’s *gentilezza* (kindness) is a common way to show appreciation without sounding overly familiar. Using *gentile* is considered polite and slightly formal, making it safe for both strangers and acquaintances. Remember that *gentile* can also mean ‘nice’ when referring to objects (e.g., *un gentile regalo* – a nice gift).