Italian Phrase
Mi aiuti a preparare la cena?
Meaning
A polite request asking someone to help you prepare dinner. The use of the present subjunctive (aiuti) softens the request, making it sound courteous and respectful.
When to use
Use this phrase when you need assistance in the kitchen, especially with family members, friends you’re close to, or in a slightly formal setting where you want to be courteous.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Miaiutiaprepararelacena
Mi
Indirect object pronoun meaning 'to me' placed before the verb.
aiuti
Present subjunctive of 'aiutare', used here to make a polite request.
a
Preposition that links the verb 'aiutare' to the infinitive that follows.
preparare
Infinitive verb meaning 'to prepare' or 'to cook'.
la
Definite article agreeing with the feminine noun 'cena'.
cena
Noun meaning 'dinner', a common mealtime reference in Italian.
🗨In Conversation
Mi aiuti a preparare la cena?
Will you help me prepare dinner?
Certo, ti aiuto volentieri!
Sure, I’ll gladly help you!
✕Common Mistakes
Mi aiuta a preparare la cena?
Uses third‑person singular instead of the subjunctive needed for a polite request.
Mi aiuti preparare la cena?
Omitting the preposition ‘a’ makes the sentence sound ungrammatical; ‘aiutare’ requires ‘a + infinitive’.
Aiuti mi a preparare la cena?
Pronoun must precede the verb, not follow it.
↔Alternatives
Puoi aiutarmi a preparare la cena?
Can you help me prepare dinner?
Mi dai una mano per preparare la cena?
Can you give me a hand to prepare dinner?
Potresti aiutarmi a preparare la cena?
Could you help me prepare dinner?
Cultural Tip
In Italy dinner is usually served later, around 8‑9 pm, and cooking is often a family activity. Asking for help with "Mi aiuti…" shows respect and politeness, especially when speaking to elders or in a semi‑formal context. With close friends you might drop the subjunctive and say "Mi aiuti?" or use the more informal "Mi dai una mano?".