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Italian Phrase

Vendi nastro adesivo per imballare?

/ˈven.di ˈnas.tro a.deˈsi.vo per im.baˈla.re/
Meaning"Do you sell packing tape?"
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Meaning

The sentence asks a shopkeeper whether they have packing (adhesive) tape available for purchase. It’s a direct, informal way to inquire about a specific product in a store.

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When to use

Use this phrase when you are in a hardware store, stationery shop, or any retail outlet that sells packaging supplies. It works best in informal settings or when you have already established a friendly rapport with the seller.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Vendinastroadesivoperimballare

1

Vendi

Second‑person singular present of 'vendere' (to sell). Used here as a polite question meaning 'Do you sell...?'

2

nastro adesivo

A compound noun meaning 'adhesive tape' or 'packing tape'. No article is needed in this question form.

3

per

Preposition meaning 'for', introducing the purpose of the tape.

4

imballare

Infinitive verb meaning 'to pack' or 'to wrap for shipping'.

🗨In Conversation

A

Vendi nastro adesivo per imballare?

Do you sell packing tape?

Sì, lo trovi al corridoio tre, vicino ai cartoni.

Yes, you’ll find it in aisle three, next to the boxes.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Vendi il nastro adesivo per imballare?

    The article 'il' is unnecessary in a yes/no question about product availability.

  • Vendi un nastro adesivo per imballare?

    Using 'un' changes the nuance to asking if they sell *any* tape, which is less natural in this context.

  • Vendi nastro adesivo di imballare?

    The preposition 'di' is incorrect; the purpose is expressed with 'per' + infinitive.

↔Alternatives

  • Hai del nastro adesivo per imballare?

    Do you have any packing tape?

  • Potrei avere del nastro adesivo per imballare?

    Could I have some packing tape?

  • Mi serve del nastro adesivo per imballare, lo avete?

    I need packing tape, do you have it?

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Cultural Tip

In Italy, it’s common to start a request with a polite opener such as 'Mi scusi' or 'Per favore' before the question. While 'Vendi nastro adesivo per imballare?' is perfectly understandable, adding a courtesy phrase makes the interaction smoother, especially in more formal shops. Also, note that many Italian shopkeepers prefer the definite article (e.g., 'Il nastro adesivo') when talking about a specific product they have in stock.