Italian Phrase
Sì, sto lavorando a una nuova proposta per un cliente.
Meaning
This sentence is a positive affirmation that the speaker is currently developing a new proposal for a client. It emphasizes the ongoing nature of the work and the professional context.
When to use
Use this phrase when a colleague, manager, or client asks what you are currently doing, especially in meetings, emails, or quick updates about project status.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Sìstolavorandoaunanuovapropostaperuncliente
Sto + gerundio
The construction 'sto' + gerundio forms the present progressive, indicating an action happening right now.
Lavorare a
When you are working on a project, Italian uses the verb 'lavorare' followed by the preposition 'a' + noun.
Indefinite article
'Una' introduces a non‑specific proposal; it signals that the proposal is new and not yet known to the listener.
Preposition per
'Per' introduces the beneficiary of the action – here, the client.
🗨In Conversation
Che cosa stai facendo adesso?
What are you working on right now?
Sì, sto lavorando a una nuova proposta per un cliente.
Yes, I’m working on a new proposal for a client.
✕Common Mistakes
Sì, sto lavorando su una nuova proposta per un cliente.
The verb 'lavorare' collocates with 'a' when referring to a proposal or project; 'su' is used with more abstract tasks.
Sì, sto lavorando a la nuova proposta per un cliente.
Using the definite article would imply a specific, already known proposal, which changes the nuance.
Sì, sto lavorando a una nuova proposta per il cliente.
If you want to refer to a particular client already mentioned, use 'il cliente'.
↔Alternatives
Sì, sto preparando una nuova offerta per un cliente.
Yes, I’m preparing a new offer for a client.
Sì, sto elaborando una nuova proposta per un cliente.
Yes, I’m drafting a new proposal for a client.
Sì, sto sviluppando un nuovo progetto per un cliente.
Yes, I’m developing a new project for a client.
Cultural Tip
In Italian business communication, starting with 'Sì' shows politeness and confirms you understood the question. The progressive form 'sto lavorando' is preferred over the simple present when you want to stress that the work is happening right now. Avoid mixing 'lavorare su' with 'proposta' – the correct collocation is 'lavorare a una proposta'.