Italian Phrase
Ti lavi i denti?
Meaning
This question asks someone if they brush their teeth, typically used in informal or familiar contexts. It can imply concern about hygiene or be part of a routine check, especially between parents and children.
When to use
Use 'Ti lavi i denti?' with friends, family members, or children when you want to confirm their daily brushing habit. It's informal, so avoid it in formal settings or with strangers.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Tilaviidenti?
Reflexive pronoun (ti)
In Italian, brushing your own teeth uses the reflexive verb 'lavarsi' with the pronoun 'ti' for 'you' (singular).
Verb conjugation (lavi)
The verb 'lavare' is conjugated in the present indicative for 'tu' as 'lavi'.
Definite article (i)
When talking about teeth in general, the plural definite article 'i' is used.
Question mark placement
Italian uses a question mark only at the end of the sentence, unlike Spanish which uses opening and closing marks.
🗨In Conversation
Ti lavi i denti?
Do you brush your teeth?
Sì, li lavo ogni mattina e sera.
Yes, I brush them every morning and night.
✕Common Mistakes
Lavi i denti?
Missing the reflexive pronoun 'ti' makes it sound like you're brushing someone else's teeth.
Ti lava i denti?
Verb should agree with 'tu' (lavi), not third person singular (lava).
Ti lavi denti?
The definite article 'i' is needed before the plural noun 'denti'.
↔Alternatives
Ti lavi i denti ogni giorno?
Do you brush your teeth every day?
Ti lavi i denti regolarmente?
Do you brush your teeth regularly?
Hai già spazzolato i denti?
Have you already brushed your teeth?
Cultural Tip
In Italy, oral hygiene is emphasized from a young age. Parents often ask 'Ti lavi i denti?' after meals, and many Italians carry a small toothbrush for quick freshening after coffee or meals. The phrase is also a polite way to remind someone to maintain good dental health.