Italian Phrase
Vorrei cominciare dicendo...
Meaning
The phrase translates to ‘I would like to start by saying…’. It is a courteous way to open a speech, presentation, or written introduction, signalling that what follows is important or personal.
When to use
Use this expression at the beginning of formal speeches, presentations, debates, essays, or any situation where you want to politely introduce your main point. It works well in both spoken and written Italian, especially in academic or professional contexts.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Vorreicominciaredicendo...
Vorrei (conditional)
‘Vorrei’ is the conditional form of ‘volere’ (to want) and is used to express a polite desire, similar to ‘I would like…’ in English.
cominciare (infinitive)
‘Cominciare’ means ‘to begin/start’. In this construction it follows the conditional verb and keeps the infinitive form.
dicendo (gerund)
‘Dicendo’ is the gerund of ‘dire’ (to say). The gerund links the act of beginning with the content that follows.
🗨In Conversation
Vorrei cominciare dicendo che il nostro progetto ha già superato le aspettative iniziali.
I would like to start by saying that our project has already exceeded the initial expectations.
Grazie per l'introduzione, è un ottimo punto di partenza.
Thank you for the introduction, it’s a great starting point.
✕Common Mistakes
Voglio cominciare dicendo che...
‘Voglio’ is too direct for formal introductions; use ‘Vorrei’ to keep the tone polite.
Vorrei cominciare dire che...
After ‘cominciare’ you need the infinitive ‘dire’ or the gerund ‘dicendo’; ‘dire’ without ‘a’ is ungrammatical here.
Vorrei cominciare dicendo che...
While correct, many learners forget the ellipsis or the pause; in spoken Italian a short pause after ‘dicendo’ helps the listener.
↔Alternatives
Vorrei iniziare dicendo...
I would like to begin by saying...
Permettetemi di cominciare dicendo...
Allow me to start by saying...
Inizio dicendo...
I start by saying...
Cultural Tip
In Italian, the conditional ‘vorrei’ softens requests and introductions, making them sound more polite and respectful. In very formal settings (e.g., academic conferences), you might also hear ‘Permettetemi di…’ which adds an extra layer of deference. Avoid using the more direct ‘voglio’ unless you are speaking informally with close friends.