Italian Phrase
Ho bisogno d'acqua.
Meaning
Literally, 'I have need of water', which in English is expressed as 'I need water.' It is a straightforward way to state a personal necessity, often used when you are thirsty or require water for a task.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are thirsty, when you need water for cooking, or when you are asking someone to provide you with water in a casual or polite setting. It works both in everyday conversation and in more formal contexts like a restaurant or a hotel.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Hobisognod'acqua
Ho (avere)
First person singular present of the verb 'avere' (to have), used here as an auxiliary to express need.
bisogno (noun)
A masculine singular noun meaning 'need'. It is used with the preposition 'di' (or its elided form 'd'') to introduce what is needed.
d' (di + vowel)
The preposition 'di' contracts to 'd'' before a vowel, as in 'd'acqua'.
acqua (noun)
Feminine singular noun meaning 'water'.
🗨In Conversation
Ho bisogno d'acqua, per favore.
I need water, please.
Certo, ecco un bicchiere d'acqua naturale.
Sure, here's a glass of still water.
✕Common Mistakes
Ho bisogno di acqua.
The preposition 'di' contracts to 'd'' before a vowel; 'di acqua' sounds unnatural.
Ho bisogno di l'acqua.
Do not add the definite article after 'bisogno di'; the correct form is just 'd'acqua' or 'dell'acqua' if you want to imply 'some water'.
Bisogna d'acqua.
'Bisogna' is an impersonal verb meaning 'one needs'; it cannot be used with a personal subject like 'io'.
↔Alternatives
Mi serve dell'acqua.
I need some water.
Vorrei dell'acqua, per favore.
I would like some water, please.
Ho sete, mi dai dell'acqua?
I'm thirsty, can you give me some water?
Cultural Tip
In Italy water is often offered as 'acqua frizzante' (sparkling) or 'acqua naturale' (still). When ordering in a restaurant, you can specify which you prefer. Also, saying 'per favore' (please) adds politeness, especially when asking strangers for water.