Italian Phrase
Bevo un bicchiere d'acqua.
Meaning
This phrase describes the simple act of consuming a glass of water. It uses the first-person singular form of the irregular verb 'bere' to indicate a current or habitual action. The structure follows a standard subject-verb-object pattern common in everyday Italian conversation.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are currently drinking water or explaining your choice of beverage to someone else. It is appropriate for casual settings like home or more formal environments like a restaurant when confirming your order.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Bevounbicchiered'acqua
Bere (Bevo)
The verb 'bere' is irregular. 'Bevo' is the first-person singular in the present tense.
Elision (d'acqua)
The preposition 'di' drops its 'i' and adds an apostrophe when followed by a word starting with a vowel, like 'acqua'.
🗨In Conversation
Vuoi del vino o della birra?
Do you want some wine or beer?
No grazie, bevo un bicchiere d'acqua.
No thanks, I'm drinking a glass of water.
✕Common Mistakes
Bevo un vetro d'acqua.
Use 'bicchiere' for the container you drink from; 'vetro' refers to the material glass.
Bevo un bicchiere di acqua.
While grammatically possible, it is much more natural to use the elision 'd'acqua' before a word starting with a vowel.
↔Alternatives
Prendo un bicchiere d'acqua.
I'll have a glass of water.
Vorrei un bicchiere d'acqua.
I would like a glass of water.
Cultural Tip
In Italy, drinking water is often specified as 'naturale' (still) or 'frizzante' (sparkling). While tap water is safe and common at home, in restaurants it is customary to order bottled mineral water, and you will rarely be served a glass of tap water unless specifically requested.