Italian Phrase
Dobbiamo fare la spesa.
Meaning
The sentence states an obligation for a group (we) to go grocery shopping. It can be used when the fridge is empty, when planning a weekly shop, or when sharing household duties.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to tell family members, roommates, or friends that it’s time to buy food and household supplies. It works in casual conversation and can also be used in a slightly more formal context, such as a work‑team planning a catered event.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Dobbiamofarelaspesa
Dovere (present 1st pl.)
‘Dobbiamo’ is the present indicative of ‘dovere’ meaning ‘we must/need to’; it expresses obligation.
Infinitive after modal verb
When ‘dovere’ is used, it is followed by an infinitive verb (here ‘fare’) to indicate the action required.
La spesa
‘La spesa’ literally means ‘the shopping’; in everyday Italian it refers to grocery shopping.
🗨In Conversation
Dobbiamo fare la spesa, il frigo è vuoto.
We need to do the shopping, the fridge is empty.
Sì, andiamo al supermercato più vicino.
Yes, let’s go to the nearest supermarket.
✕Common Mistakes
Devo fare la spesa.
‘Devo’ is singular; it means ‘I have to’. Use ‘dobbiamo’ for ‘we’.
Dobbiamo fare spesa.
The article ‘la’ is required; without it the phrase sounds incomplete.
Dobbiamo fare il speso.
‘Spesa’ is feminine; the article must agree in gender and number.
↔Alternatives
Dobbiamo andare a fare la spesa.
We have to go grocery shopping.
È il momento di fare la spesa.
It’s time to do the shopping.
Dobbiamo comprare il cibo.
We need to buy food.
Cultural Tip
In Italy, ‘fare la spesa’ can refer to a quick trip to a local market, a neighborhood mini‑market, or a larger supermarket. Many Italians still prefer daily or twice‑a‑week visits to fresh‑produce stalls, so the phrase often carries a sense of routine rather than a massive weekly haul. Adjust your tone: in a family setting it’s casual, but in a business context you might say ‘dobbiamo provvedere alla spesa’ for a more formal feel.