Italian Phrase
La spedizione standard è gratis.
Meaning
This phrase literally translates to 'The standard shipping is free.' It's a very common expression used in e-commerce and retail to inform customers that they won't be charged for the delivery of their purchased items, specifically when opting for the standard delivery method.
When to use
You will most frequently encounter this phrase when shopping online or in stores that offer delivery services. It's used to highlight a promotional offer or a standard policy regarding shipping costs, encouraging customers to complete their purchase without worrying about extra fees.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Laspedizionestandardègratis
La (definite article)
'La' is the feminine singular definite article in Italian, equivalent to 'the' in English. It's used here because 'spedizione' is a feminine noun.
spedizione (noun)
This noun means 'shipping' or 'shipment.' It's a feminine noun, which dictates the use of 'la' as its article.
standard (adjective)
'Standard' is an adjective meaning 'standard.' In Italian, it often remains invariable (doesn't change for gender or number) when used as an adjective, especially when borrowed from English.
è (verb 'essere')
'È' is the third-person singular form of the verb 'essere' (to be). It means 'is' and connects the subject ('la spedizione standard') to its characteristic ('gratis').
gratis (adverb/adjective)
'Gratis' means 'free of charge.' It can function as both an adverb and an adjective and is invariable, meaning it doesn't change its form based on the gender or number of the noun it modifies.
🗨In Conversation
Quanto costa la spedizione per questo vestito?
How much does shipping cost for this dress?
Non preoccuparti, la spedizione standard è gratis!
Don't worry, standard shipping is free!
✕Common Mistakes
La spedizione standard è libero.
While 'libero' means 'free' in the sense of 'not occupied' or 'at liberty,' 'gratis' is used for 'free of charge.' Using 'libero' here is incorrect.
Il spedizione standard è gratis.
The word 'spedizione' is feminine, so it requires the feminine definite article 'La' instead of the masculine 'Il'.
↔Alternatives
Spedizione gratuita.
Free shipping.
Consegna gratuita.
Free delivery.
Nessun costo di spedizione.
No shipping cost.
Cultural Tip
In Italy, as in many other countries, free shipping has become a significant factor in online shopping. Many Italian consumers expect free shipping, especially for orders above a certain amount. Businesses often use 'La spedizione standard è gratis' as a key selling point to attract and retain customers in a competitive e-commerce market.