Italian Phrase
Sì, è una festa dove ognuno porta qualcosa.
Meaning
This phrase describes a potluck-style gathering where guests are expected to contribute food or drinks. It uses the relative pronoun 'dove' to define the nature of the event and 'ognuno' to specify individual responsibility.
When to use
Use this phrase when explaining the logistics of a social event to a friend or guest. It is perfect for clarifying that the host is not providing everything and that participation is required.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Sìèuna festadoveognunoportaqualcosa
Ognuno
This indefinite pronoun means 'everyone' or 'each one' and always requires a singular verb form.
Dove
In this context, 'dove' acts as a relative pronoun meaning 'in which' to describe the characteristics of the party.
🗨In Conversation
Dobbiamo preparare qualcosa per stasera?
Do we need to prepare something for tonight?
Sì, è una festa dove ognuno porta qualcosa.
Yes, it's a party where everyone brings something.
✕Common Mistakes
Sì, è una festa dove ognuno portano qualcosa.
The subject 'ognuno' is always singular, so the verb must be 'porta' instead of the plural 'portano'.
Sì, è una festa che ognuno porta qualcosa.
Use 'dove' or 'in cui' to refer to the context of the party; 'che' is a direct relative pronoun and doesn't fit the locative sense here.
↔Alternatives
È una cena sociale.
It's a social dinner.
Ognuno porta un piatto da condividere.
Everyone brings a dish to share.
Cultural Tip
In Italy, while traditional dinner parties often see the host providing all the food, 'feste' among younger generations or close friends frequently follow this 'potluck' style. It is always polite to ask the host specifically what is needed, such as 'dolce' (dessert) or 'bevande' (drinks).