Italian Phrase
Dì loro gentilmente che hai un'altra offerta.
Meaning
This phrase is a polite way to communicate that you are declining a proposal or job because you have a better alternative. It combines the imperative command 'Dì' with the adverb 'gentilmente' to ensure the message remains professional and respectful. It is essential for maintaining good relationships while being transparent about your situation.
When to use
Use this phrase when navigating professional negotiations, such as declining a job offer or a business contract. It is most effective in scenarios where you want to be firm about your decision without burning bridges.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Dìlorogentilmentechehaiun'altraofferta
Dì (Imperative)
This is the second-person singular imperative of the verb 'dire'. Note the accent mark which distinguishes it from the preposition 'di'.
Un'altra (Elision)
The feminine article 'una' drops the 'a' and takes an apostrophe before 'altra' because both words end and start with a vowel.
🗨In Conversation
Cosa dovrei rispondere alla loro proposta?
What should I reply to their proposal?
Dì loro gentilmente che hai un'altra offerta.
Tell them kindly that you have another offer.
✕Common Mistakes
Dì loro gentilmente che hai un altro offerta.
The noun 'offerta' is feminine, so the indefinite article must be 'un'altra' with an apostrophe.
Dì a loro gentilmente che hai un'altra offerta.
While 'a loro' is grammatically possible, 'loro' used directly after the verb as an indirect object is more natural in modern Italian imperatives.
↔Alternatives
Purtroppo ho ricevuto un'altra proposta.
Unfortunately, I have received another proposal.
Ho deciso di accettare un'altra offerta.
I have decided to accept another offer.
Cultural Tip
In Italian professional settings, 'la bella figura' (making a good impression) is vital. Even when rejecting an offer, using words like 'gentilmente' helps preserve your reputation and keeps the door open for future collaborations. Italians value directness tempered with courtesy.