Italian Phrase
Scusa, ma ho una domanda.
Meaning
Literally, “Excuse me, but I have a question.” It is a polite way to get someone’s attention before asking for clarification, help, or information. The phrase balances courtesy (Scusa) with a clear statement of intent (ho una domanda).
When to use
Use this expression in informal conversations with friends, classmates, or colleagues when you need to interrupt politely. In more formal contexts you would switch to ‘Scusi’ or ‘Mi scusi’.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Scusamahounadomanda
Scusa (imperative)
‘Scusa’ is the informal imperative of the verb *scusare* meaning ‘excuse’. Use it with people you know or in casual settings.
ma (conjunction)
‘ma’ means ‘but’ and links two clauses, often introducing a polite request or a contrasting statement.
ho (present of avere)
‘ho’ is the first‑person singular present of *avere* ‘to have’, used here to express possession of a question.
una (indefinite article)
‘una’ is the feminine singular indefinite article, matching the gender of *domanda*.
domanda (noun)
‘domanda’ means ‘question’; it is a feminine noun, so it takes the article *una*.
🗨In Conversation
Scusa, ma ho una domanda.
Excuse me, but I have a question.
Certo, dimmi pure!
Sure, go ahead!
✕Common Mistakes
Scusi, ma ho una domanda.
‘Scusi’ is formal; using it in a casual setting can sound stiff.
Scusa, ma ho un domanda.
‘Domanda’ is feminine, so the article must be *una*, not *un*.
Scusa, ma ho una domandà.
Avoid adding an accent; the correct noun is *domanda*.
↔Alternatives
Scusami, ma ho una domanda.
Sorry, but I have a question.
Mi scusi, ma ho una domanda.
Excuse me, but I have a question.
Permesso, ho una domanda.
May I, I have a question.
Cultural Tip
‘Scusa’ is informal; use it with peers or people you know well. In a business meeting, a classroom, or when speaking to an elder, switch to the formal ‘Scusi’ or the more polite ‘Mi scusi’. Italians appreciate a brief apology before a request, as it signals respect for the listener’s time.