Italian Phrase
Pago adesso?
Meaning
Literally “I pay now?” It is a short, polite way to ask the waiter, shop assistant, or service provider whether you should settle the bill at this moment.
When to use
Use it right after you receive the bill in a restaurant, café, taxi, or any place where payment is expected. It works both in casual and semi‑formal settings, as long as you keep a friendly tone.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Pagoadesso?
Present Indicative (1st person singular)
"Pago" is the first‑person singular present indicative of the verb *pagare* (to pay).
Adverb Placement
"Adesso" means “now”. In Italian it can follow the verb (Pago adesso) or precede it (Adesso pago) with the same meaning.
Question Mark
Raising the intonation at the end of the sentence turns a statement into a question; the written form simply adds a question mark.
🗨In Conversation
Il conto è pronto.
The bill is ready.
Pago adesso?
Should I pay now?
✕Common Mistakes
Pagare adesso?
Using the infinitive *pagare* makes the sentence sound like a command or a suggestion, not a personal question.
Paghi adesso?
This is second‑person singular (you pay now) and changes the meaning; use *Pago* when you’re speaking about yourself.
Pago ora?
"Ora" is correct, but many learners mix the two adverbs; both are fine, just keep the same word throughout the conversation.
↔Alternatives
Posso pagare ora?
Can I pay now?
Devo pagare subito?
Do I have to pay right away?
Paghiamo adesso?
Shall we pay now?
Cultural Tip
In Italy it’s common to wait for the server to bring the bill, but asking “Pago adesso?” shows you’re ready and respectful of the staff’s timing. If you want to be extra polite, you can add “per favore” (please) or use the infinitive form: “Posso pagare adesso, per favore?”. Remember that “adesso” is informal; in very formal contexts you might prefer “ora”.