Italian Phrase
Serve una firma.
Meaning
Literally ‘A signature is needed.’ The sentence is used to state that a document, form, or any paper requires a signature before it can be considered complete or valid.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are handling paperwork, filling out contracts, or asking someone to sign a document. It works in both formal and informal settings, but it is especially common in offices, banks, and government offices.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Serveunafirma.
Impersonal verb (serve)
‘Serve’ is the third‑person singular of the verb *servire* used impersonally, meaning ‘it is needed/required’. It does not have a personal subject.
Indefinite article (una)
‘una’ is the feminine singular indefinite article, used before a noun that begins with a consonant.
Noun (firma)
‘firma’ means ‘signature’; it is a feminine noun, so it matches the article ‘una’.
🗨In Conversation
Serve una firma.
A signature is needed.
Certo, dove devo firmare?
Sure, where should I sign?
✕Common Mistakes
Io serve una firma.
‘Serve’ is impersonal; you cannot attach a personal subject. Use ‘Mi serve una firma.’ instead.
Serve un firma.
‘Firma’ is feminine, so the article must be ‘una’, not ‘un’.
Serve una firmare.
‘Firmare’ is the verb ‘to sign’; you need the noun ‘firma’, not the infinitive.
↔Alternatives
Mi serve una firma.
I need a signature.
È necessaria una firma.
A signature is necessary.
Bisogna una firma.
A signature is required.
Cultural Tip
In Italy, signing a document is a formal act that often requires your full name as it appears on your identity document. When you see a line marked ‘Firma’, write your name legibly; a quick scribble may be considered disrespectful in official contexts. Also, Italians frequently use the impersonal ‘serve’ to express a need without mentioning the person who needs it.