Italian Phrase
Porto qualcosa da mangiare?
Meaning
A polite question asking whether the speaker should bring something to eat. It’s commonly used when arranging a gathering, picnic, or potluck and signals the speaker’s willingness to contribute food.
When to use
Use this phrase when you’re invited to a dinner, party, or casual get‑together and want to know if the host expects you to bring a dish, snack, or any food item.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Portoqualcosadamangiare?
Porto (present)
First‑person singular present indicative of *portare* (to bring, to carry).
qualcosa
Indefinite pronoun meaning “something”.
da + infinitive
The preposition *da* followed by an infinitive expresses purpose, e.g., *qualcosa da mangiare* = “something to eat”.
mangiare (infinitive)
The infinitive form of the verb “to eat”, used after *da* to indicate the intended use of the thing.
🗨In Conversation
Stasera facciamo una cena informale, vuoi venire?
We’re having an informal dinner tonight, do you want to come?
Sì, porto qualcosa da mangiare?
Sure, should I bring something to eat?
✕Common Mistakes
Porto qualcosa di mangiare?
The preposition after *qualcosa* should be *da*, not *di*.
Porto qualcosa per mangiare?
*Per* is understandable but less idiomatic in this construction.
Porto qualcosa mangiare?
You need a preposition before the infinitive.
↔Alternatives
Posso portare qualcosa da mangiare?
Can I bring something to eat?
Ti porto qualcosa da mangiare?
Shall I bring you something to eat?
Vuoi che porti qualcosa da mangiare?
Do you want me to bring something to eat?
Cultural Tip
In Italy the host usually prepares the main course, but it’s common (especially among friends) to bring a dessert, wine, or an aperitivo. Asking *Porto qualcosa da mangiare?* shows courtesy and a collaborative spirit, and it’s appreciated in informal gatherings.