Italian Phrase
Oggi non mi sento bene.
Meaning
Literally “Today I don’t feel well.” It can refer to physical illness, a headache, fatigue, or even a low mood. The phrase is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
When to use
Use this sentence when you want to tell someone that you’re unwell today – whether you have a cold, a stomach upset, or just feel off‑balance. It’s the go‑to expression in a medical office, at work, or when a friend asks how you’re doing.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Ogginonmisentobene
Oggi
Adverb of time meaning “today”. It usually appears at the beginning of the sentence.
non
Negation particle placed before the verb to make the statement negative.
mi
Reflexive pronoun for the first person singular; required with the verb sentire when it means “to feel”.
sento
First‑person singular present of the verb sentire (to feel, to hear). With the reflexive pronoun it expresses a personal state.
bene
Adverb meaning “well”. When used after sentire it describes the quality of the feeling.
🗨In Conversation
Oggi non mi sento bene.
I don’t feel well today.
Mi dispiace. Vuoi che ti porti qualcosa?
I’m sorry. Do you want me to bring you something?
✕Common Mistakes
Oggi non sento bene.
Without the reflexive pronoun “mi”, “sentire” means “to hear”. “Oggi non sento bene” would be interpreted as “I don’t hear well today”.
Bene non mi sento oggi.
Placing “bene” before the verb changes the meaning; “Bene non mi sento oggi” is ungrammatical in Italian.
Non mi sento bene oggi.
While the word order is technically possible, native speakers almost always put the adverb of time at the start: “Oggi non mi sento bene.”
↔Alternatives
Oggi sto male.
I’m feeling ill today.
Non sto bene oggi.
I’m not well today.
Mi sento male oggi.
I feel bad today.
Cultural Tip
In Italy people often use the reflexive form “sentirsi bene/male” to talk about health. “Non mi sento bene” is a polite, low‑intensity way to say you’re ill; if the condition is more serious you’ll hear “sto molto male” or “ho la febbre”. When you’re visiting a doctor, you might add specifics: “Ho mal di testa e la febbre”.