Italian Phrase
Sto cercando segni di parassiti.
Meaning
The speaker is actively looking for any evidence that parasites are present. It can refer to a medical examination, a garden inspection, or a veterinary check‑up. The phrase emphasizes the ongoing nature of the search rather than a one‑time observation.
When to use
Use this sentence when you are examining a patient, a plant, or an animal for possible infestation. It is common in medical offices, veterinary clinics, agricultural settings, and even in everyday conversation about household pests.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Stocercandosegnidiparassiti
Sto + gerundio
The construction 'sto' + gerund expresses the present progressive, equivalent to 'I am ...ing' in English.
cercare (to look for)
Cercare is a transitive verb; when followed by a noun phrase it means 'to search for' that thing.
segni di + noun
The pattern 'segni di' means 'signs of' and is used to indicate evidence of something.
parassiti (plural)
Parassiti is the plural form of parassita; use the plural when referring to multiple parasites or a general infestation.
🗨In Conversation
Buongiorno dottore, ho notato prurito e irritazione.
Good morning doctor, I've noticed itching and irritation.
Capisco, sto cercando segni di parassiti per capire se è una puntura o un'infestazione.
I understand, I'm looking for signs of parasites to see if it's a bite or an infestation.
✕Common Mistakes
Sto cerca segni di parassiti.
Use the gerund 'cercando' after 'sto' to form the progressive; 'cerca' is present simple.
Sto cercando segni di parassita.
When referring to a general infestation, use the plural 'parassiti'.
Sto cercando segni parassiti.
The preposition 'di' is required after 'segni' to link the noun.
↔Alternatives
Sto cercando tracce di parassiti.
I am looking for traces of parasites.
Sto verificando la presenza di parassiti.
I am checking for the presence of parasites.
Sto indagando su possibili parassiti.
I am investigating possible parasites.
Cultural Tip
In Italian, when discussing health or pest‑related issues, a polite and slightly formal tone is preferred, especially with professionals. Avoid overly colloquial terms like 'batteri' for parasites; use the precise word 'parassiti' to sound knowledgeable.