Italian Phrase
La finestra non si chiude bene.
Meaning
The sentence states that the window does not close properly, implying a problem such as a warped frame, a broken latch, or misaligned hinges. It can be used to describe a minor annoyance or a more serious repair issue.
When to use
Use this phrase when you notice a window that sticks, leaks, or leaves a draft. It’s common in conversations with housemates, landlords, maintenance staff, or friends who are helping you with home repairs.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Lafinestranonsichiudebene
Definite article (La)
La is the feminine singular definite article, used before nouns that are feminine and singular.
Noun gender (finestra)
Finestra is a feminine noun meaning “window”. Its plural is finestre.
Negation (non)
Non precedes the verb (or verb phrase) to make the statement negative.
Reflexive passive (si chiude)
The verb chiudere is used in the reflexive passive form si chiude, meaning “it closes” or “is closed”.
Adverb of manner (bene)
Bene modifies the verb phrase and means “well, properly”. Placed after the verb.
🗨In Conversation
La finestra non si chiude bene.
The window doesn't close properly.
Hai provato a regolare le cerniere?
Have you tried adjusting the hinges?
✕Common Mistakes
La finestra non chiude bene.
The verb must be reflexive (si chiude) because the window is the subject that is being closed.
La finestra si chiude bene non.
Negation (non) always comes before the verb phrase, not after the adverb.
la finestra non si chiude bene.
In written Italian the first word of a sentence is capitalized; forgetting the capital can look informal.
↔Alternatives
La finestra non si chiude correttamente.
The window doesn't close correctly.
La finestra non si chiude come dovrebbe.
The window doesn't close as it should.
La finestra non si chiude a dovere.
The window doesn't close properly.
Cultural Tip
In many Italian homes, especially in older buildings, windows often have wooden shutters (persiane) that need regular adjustment. When reporting a problem, it’s polite to use a neutral tone and, if you’re speaking to a landlord, to suggest a possible solution (e.g., “potrei sistemare le cerniere”). Regional dialects may replace “finestra” with “fenestra” (Sicily) or “ventana” (some northern valleys).