In every language there are certain expressions that suddenly become very popular, whether you like them or not, whether they’re really meaningful / correct or not.

Italians, right now, seem to be very fond of a new expression: “ci sta”.

It is informally used to admit that something is reasonable, feasible or acceptable. It can be translated in English as “fair enough”.

 

 

- “Non vengo perché ho da fare” “Ci sta.” (“I’m not going, as I’m busy.” “Fair enough.”)

- “Ad Anna serve più tempo.” “Ci sta. Però non troppo.” (“Anna needs more time.” “Fair enough, but not too long.”)

 

Ci sta can be followed by the conjunction che introducing a subordinate sentence, meaning that it’s possible for something to go a certain way.

 

 

- Ci sta che Anna sia arrabbiata. (It makes sense that Anna is angry.)

 

Note that the Italian verb stare can be translated in many ways: it can be used as an auxiliary verb instead of essere / to be; it can mean that you’re staying, remaining, living somewhere; or that you’re looking fine – in expressions like “con gli occhiali nuovi Alberto sta molto bene” / Alberto looks great in his new glasses.

 

Stare + ci (adverb of place) = to agree or to get in a certain space

 

 

- “Andiamo al cinema domani?” “Sì, ci sto.” (“Are we going to the cinema theatre tomorrow?” “Yes, I’m in.”)

- Il libro non ci sta nella libreria. (The book doesn’t get in / fit inthe book shelf)