Italian Phrase
Sono un po' stanco.
Meaning
This phrase is a common way to express mild fatigue or a lack of energy. It combines the verb 'essere' (to be) with the quantifier 'un po'' (a bit) and the adjective 'stanco' (tired).
When to use
Use this phrase in everyday situations to explain why you might be less active or to politely decline an invitation. It is appropriate for both informal chats with friends and professional environments.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Sonoun po'stanco
Essere (sono)
The first-person singular of 'essere' is used here to describe a state of being.
Un po'
A common truncation of 'un poco', used to soften the intensity of an adjective.
Adjective Agreement
The ending of 'stanco' changes to 'stanca' if the speaker is female.
🗨In Conversation
Andiamo in palestra?
Shall we go to the gym?
No, scusa, sono un po' stanco.
No, sorry, I am a bit tired.
✕Common Mistakes
Sto un po' stanco.
In Italian, you use 'essere' (sono) to describe being tired, not 'stare' (sto).
Sono un piccolo stanco.
Use 'un po'' for 'a little bit' in this context; 'piccolo' refers to physical size.
↔Alternatives
Sono stanchissimo.
I am very tired.
Sono a pezzi.
I am exhausted (literally: I am in pieces).
Cultural Tip
Italian is a gendered language, so the adjective must match the speaker. A man says 'stanco', while a woman says 'stanca'. It is also common to accompany this phrase with a sigh or a small gesture of the hand to emphasize the feeling.