Italian Phrase
Non bloccare le porte con borse.
Meaning
Literally, 'Do not block the doors with bags.' The sentence is a polite imperative used on signs or in spoken instructions to keep doorways clear of luggage, shopping bags, or any other items that could obstruct passage.
When to use
Use this phrase on signage in public buildings, elevators, public transport, shops, or any place where a clear exit is required for safety and convenience. It can also be spoken by staff when reminding customers to keep aisles free.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Nonbloccareleporteconborse
Non (negation)
The adverb 'non' precedes the verb to make the sentence negative.
bloccare (infinitive)
The infinitive form of the verb 'to block' is used after a negative command.
le porte (definite article + noun)
Both article and noun are plural; 'le' is the feminine plural definite article.
con (preposition)
The preposition 'con' means 'with' and links the verb to the instrument.
borse (plural noun)
The plural of 'borsa' (bag) is used because the instruction refers to any number of bags.
🗨In Conversation
Scusi, posso lasciare la borsa qui?
Excuse me, can I leave the bag here?
Per favore, non bloccare le porte con borse.
Please, do not block the doors with bags.
✕Common Mistakes
Non bloccare le porte da borse.
The preposition 'da' means 'by' or 'from' and does not convey the instrument meaning needed here.
Non bloccare le porte con la borsa.
Using the singular 'la borsa' limits the instruction to one bag; the sign is meant to cover any number of bags.
Non ostacolare le porte con borse.
In spoken Italian, many people use the verb 'ostacolare' instead of 'bloccare' for this context, but 'bloccare' is the standard term on signs.
↔Alternatives
Non ostruire le porte con le borse.
Do not obstruct the doors with bags.
Evita di mettere le borse davanti alle porte.
Avoid putting bags in front of the doors.
Per favore, tieni libere le porte, non mettere le borse lì.
Please keep the doors clear, don't put bags there.
Cultural Tip
In Italy, keeping exits and passageways clear is not only a matter of courtesy but also a legal safety requirement. Fire codes in public places often mandate clear egress routes, and signs like this are common in schools, offices, and transport hubs. Using a firm but polite tone (e.g., 'Per favore') helps maintain a respectful atmosphere while enforcing the rule.