When you start learning Italian, one of the hardest things can be getting the hang of irregular verbs.

Regular verbs follow set rules when you change them for different subjects. But irregular verbs can change in unexpected ways.

Let’s look at some of the most common irregular verbs and how to use them.

Important Irregular Verbs

1. Essere (to be)

   • Present: sono, sei, è, siamo, siete, sono
   • Past: sono stato/a
   • This is one of the most important verbs. You use it to talk about who you are and to describe things.

2. Avere (to have)

   • Present: ho, hai, ha, abbiamo, avete, hanno
   • Past: ho avuto
   • You’ll often use “avere,” especially when making compound tenses.

3. Andare (to go)

   • Present: vado, vai, va, andiamo, andate, vanno
   • Past: sono andato/a
   • This verb is key when you want to talk about moving or making plans.

4. Fare (to do/make)

   • Present: faccio, fai, fa, facciamo, fate, fanno
   • Past: ho fatto
   • “Fare” shows up in many everyday expressions, so it’s super handy.

5. Dire (to say/tell)

   • Present: dico, dici, dice, diciamo, dite, dicono
   • Past: ho detto
   • You’ll need “dire” whether you’re sharing news or giving directions.

6. Venire (to come)

   • Present: vengo, vieni, viene, veniamo, venite, vengono
   • Past: sono venuto/a
   • It’s often used when you invite someone to join you.

How to Remember These Verbs

These verbs don’t follow the normal patterns, so it’s important to practice them. Here are some tips to help you remember:

• Flashcards: Make flashcards with the verb on one side and its forms on the other. This can help you remember better.

• Use Them in Sentences: Try using these verbs in sentences. For example, “Io sono felice” (I am happy) or “Noi andiamo al cinema” (We are going to the movies).

• Listen and Watch: Enjoy Italian songs or movies. This way, you can hear these verbs being used, which helps you understand them better.

By getting used to these common irregular verbs and how to change them, you’ll find it easier to have basic conversations in Italian! Happy studying!