Italian Phrase
Non mi sento bene.
Meaning
This phrase is the standard way to express that you are feeling physically or mentally unwell. It uses the reflexive verb 'sentirsi' (to feel oneself) rather than the simple 'sentire' (to hear or feel an external object).
When to use
Use this phrase whenever you need to tell someone you are sick, nauseous, or just generally not feeling your best. It is suitable for medical contexts, workplace excuses, or casual conversations with friends.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Nonmisentobene
Non
The standard negation particle in Italian, placed directly before the reflexive pronoun and verb.
Mi sento
The first-person singular present tense of the reflexive verb 'sentirsi'. The 'mi' is essential to show you are talking about your own state of being.
Bene
An adverb meaning 'well'. Note that in Italian you feel 'well' (bene) rather than feeling 'good' (buono) in this context.
🗨In Conversation
Vuoi venire al cinema con noi stasera?
Do you want to come to the cinema with us tonight?
Mi dispiace, ma non mi sento bene. Penso di restare a casa.
I'm sorry, but I don't feel well. I think I'll stay home.
✕Common Mistakes
Non sento bene.
Without the reflexive pronoun 'mi', the verb 'sentire' usually means 'to hear'.
Io non sono bene.
In Italian, you use 'sentirsi' (to feel) or 'stare' (to be/stay) to describe health, not 'essere'.
↔Alternatives
Sto male.
I feel sick.
Non mi sento molto in forma.
I don't feel very fit/well.
Mi sento uno straccio.
I feel like a rag (I feel terrible).
Cultural Tip
Italians are generally quite expressive about their health. If you use this phrase, expect people to ask follow-up questions about your symptoms or offer advice on local remedies like 'un brodino' (a little broth) or 'riposo' (rest).