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Italian Phrase

Posso usare un computer e una stampante lì?

/ˈpɔs.so uˈza.re un komˈpuː.tɛr e ˈu.na stamˈpan.te ˈli/
Meaning"Can I use a computer and a printer there?"
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Meaning

The sentence is a polite request asking whether the speaker may use a computer and a printer at a specific place that is away from the speaker’s current position. It combines a modal verb with an infinitive and two objects linked by ‘e’.

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When to use

Use this phrase in offices, libraries, coworking spaces, university labs, or any setting where equipment is shared and you need to ask for permission to use it.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Possousareuncomputereunastampantelì?

1

Posso (potere)

‘Posso’ is the 1st‑person singular present of the modal verb *potere*, used to ask for permission or express ability.

2

Usare (infinitive)

The infinitive *usare* follows the modal verb and means ‘to use’. With *potere* it forms a polite request.

3

Indefinite articles *un / una*

*un* is used before masculine nouns (*computer*), *una* before feminine nouns (*stampante*).

4

Conjunction *e*

*e* simply links two nouns, equivalent to ‘and’ in English.

5

Adverb of place *lì*

*lì* points to a location that is not the speaker’s current spot (‘there’). Use *qui* for ‘here’.

🗨In Conversation

A

Posso usare un computer e una stampante lì?

Can I use a computer and a printer there?

Certo, la stanza 302 è libera. Vai pure.

Sure, room 302 is free. Go ahead.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Può usare un computer e una stampante lì?

    ‘Può’ is 3rd‑person singular; you need the 1st‑person form ‘posso’ when speaking about yourself.

  • Posso usare un computer e una stampante questo?

    ‘Questo’ means ‘this’; the correct adverb for ‘there’ is *lì* (or *là*).

  • Posso usare un computer e stampare lì?

    ‘Stampare’ is a verb (to print). The noun you need is *stampante* (printer).

↔Alternatives

  • Posso utilizzare un computer e una stampante lì?

    Can I use a computer and a printer there?

  • È possibile usare un computer e una stampante in quella stanza?

    Is it possible to use a computer and a printer in that room?

  • Mi permette di usare un computer e una stampante lì?

    May I be allowed to use a computer and a printer there?

it

Cultural Tip

In Italian workplaces it’s customary to ask permission with *posso* rather than demanding access. Pay attention to the choice of *lì* (there) vs. *qui* (here); using the wrong adverb can sound confusing. Also, Italians often prefer *utilizzare* in formal contexts, while *usare* feels more casual.