Italian Phrase
Spero di passare.
Meaning
Literally “I hope to pass.” It is used when you are hoping to succeed at something – an exam, a test, a checkpoint, or any situation where you need to get through.
When to use
Use this phrase right before an exam, a driving test, a job interview, or when you are about to cross a border or a checkpoint and you want to express optimism about succeeding.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Sperodipassare
Spero
First‑person singular present of the verb *sperare* (to hope).
di + infinitive
In Italian, *di* is required before an infinitive when it follows verbs of desire, fear, doubt, etc.
passare
Infinitive of *passare* – to pass, to get through, to succeed (e.g., an exam).
🗨In Conversation
Spero di passare l'esame di matematica.
I hope to pass the math exam.
Sono sicuro che ce la farai!
I'm sure you'll make it!
✕Common Mistakes
Spero passare l'esame.
The preposition *di* is required before an infinitive after *sperare*.
Spero di passare il esame.
Definite articles contract with nouns; it should be *l'esame*, not *il esame*.
Spero di passare a casa.
Use *passare* alone for “to pass” and add the object directly; *a* changes the meaning to “to pass by”.
↔Alternatives
Mi auguro di superare.
I wish to pass.
Spero di riuscire a passare.
I hope to manage to pass.
Spero di superare l'esame.
I hope to pass the exam.
Cultural Tip
In Italian, *passare* is often used for exams and tests, but it can also refer to physically passing through a place (e.g., *passare il confine* – to cross the border). When you want to be more specific, add the object after the infinitive. Also, avoid using *sperare* without the preposition *di*; the construction *spero passare* is considered incorrect.