prego
1
8.9
Politely offer something or let someone go first
- interjection
- /ˈpreɪɡoʊ/
:
prego
- When offered a seat, the host gestured and said prego with a smile.
Examples
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At the counter, the barista nodded and said prego to the next customer in line.
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He held the door open and said prego as she entered the restaurant.
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Please, prego to enter.
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Would you like some coffee? Prego!
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He held the door open and said prego as she entered the restaurant.
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When offered a seat, the host gestured and said prego with a smile.
-
At the counter, the barista nodded and said prego to the next customer in line.
Synonyms
Surface Forms
prego main
Etymology
Prego comes from an old Latin verb precari meaning 'to beg' and is related to the English word pray. So when Italians say prego to invite or give permission they are politely saying 'please, go ahead'.