Italian Phrase
I prezzi variano a seconda del servizio.
Meaning
The sentence states that the cost is not fixed; it changes according to which service is chosen. It is a neutral, factual statement often used in commercial or informational contexts.
When to use
Use this phrase when you need to explain price differences in a shop, a hotel, a telecom provider, or any service‑based business. It works both in spoken conversation and in written material such as brochures or website FAQs.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Iprezzivarianoasecondadelservizio.
Definite article (I)
Plural masculine article used before nouns like 'prezzi'.
Noun (prezzi)
Plural form of 'prezzo' (price).
Verb (variano)
Third‑person plural present of 'variare' – to vary.
Expression (a seconda di)
Fixed phrase meaning 'depending on'; the preposition 'di' is often omitted after 'a seconda' when followed by a noun with its own article.
Contraction (del)
Combination of 'di' + 'il' → 'del', used before masculine singular nouns.
Noun (servizio)
Singular masculine noun meaning 'service'.
🗨In Conversation
Qual è il costo per la pulizia della casa?
What is the cost for house cleaning?
I prezzi variano a seconda del servizio.
The prices vary depending on the service.
✕Common Mistakes
I prezzi variano per il servizio.
The preposition 'per' changes the meaning to 'for the service' rather than 'depending on'. Use 'a seconda del' for dependence.
I prezzi variano a seconda di il servizio.
The article must contract: 'del' not 'di il'.
Il prezzo variano a seconda del servizio.
If the subject is singular (e.g., 'Il prezzo'), the verb must be singular: 'varia'.
↔Alternatives
I costi dipendono dal servizio.
The costs depend on the service.
Il prezzo cambia in base al servizio.
The price changes based on the service.
Il prezzo varia a seconda del tipo di servizio.
The price varies according to the type of service.
Cultural Tip
In Italy, price transparency is considered a sign of professionalism. When speaking to customers, it’s polite to give a brief range first and then explain that the exact amount depends on the specific service requested. Avoid overly informal language in business settings; keep the tone courteous and clear.