Italian Phrase
C'è qualcuno qui che parla inglese?
Meaning
A polite way to ask whether there is anyone present who can speak English. It’s often used when you need help, directions, or want to switch to English for a brief conversation.
When to use
Use this sentence in public places such as airports, hotels, museums, or classrooms when you’re looking for an English‑speaking person. It works well in both formal and informal contexts, especially when you want to show respect by asking in Italian first.
✦Grammar Breakdown
C'èqualcunoquicheparlainglese?
C'è (ci è)
Contraction of "ci è", meaning "there is/are"; used to introduce existence of something.
qualcuno
Indefinite pronoun meaning "someone"; used for an unspecified person.
qui
Adverb of place meaning "here"; placed after the subject for emphasis.
che (relative pronoun)
Introduces a relative clause; here it links "qualcuno" with the verb "parla".
parla (present indicative)
Third‑person singular of "parlare"; used to state a current ability.
inglese (noun)
Name of the language; works as a direct object after "parla".
🗨In Conversation
C'è qualcuno qui che parla inglese?
Is there anyone here who speaks English?
Sì, io parlo inglese. Come posso aiutarti?
Yes, I speak English. How can I help you?
✕Common Mistakes
C'è qualcuno qui parla inglese?
Missing the relative pronoun "che"; the clause becomes ungrammatical.
C'è qui qualcuno che parla inglese?
"Qui" should follow the subject; placing it before "qualcuno" sounds unnatural.
C'è qualcuno qui per parlare inglese?
Using the infinitive "per parlare" changes the meaning to "someone here to speak English" rather than "someone who can speak English".
↔Alternatives
C'è qualcuno che parla inglese?
Is there anyone who speaks English?
Qualcuno qui parla inglese?
Anyone here who speaks English?
C'è chi parla inglese?
Is there anyone who speaks English?
Mi può aiutare qualcuno che parla inglese?
Can someone who speaks English help me?
Cultural Tip
In Italy it’s considered courteous to start with a brief Italian greeting (e.g., "Scusi") before switching to English. Italians appreciate the effort, and using "qui" emphasizes that you’re looking for help on the spot rather than elsewhere.