English speakers often expect Italian to follow the same patterns:
make a decision, take a photo, take a break…
but Italian uses fare and prendere in different ways.
This guide explains the difference clearly and simply.
When Italians use fare
Use fare for actions, activities, and tasks. Even when English uses take or make, Italian often prefers fare.
- take a photo → fare una foto
- take a shower → fare una doccia
- take a break → fare una pausa
- make an effort → fare uno sforzo
- make a list → fare una lista
If it’s something you do, Italian uses “fare”.
When Italians use prendere
Use prendere for transport, physical objects, and food or drinks. In English these often appear as take or get.
- take the bus → prendere l’autobus
- take a taxi → prendere un taxi
- take a ticket → prendere un biglietto
- take a coffee → prendere un caffè
- take your umbrella → prendere l’ombrello
If you can grab it, hold it, board it, or consume it → use “prendere”.
When English uses make but Italian uses prendere
English uses make for decisions and commitments, but Italian prefers prendere.
- make a decision → prendere una decisione
- make a commitment → prendere un impegno
- take responsibility → prendere una responsabilità
- make a choice → prendere una scelta (“fare una scelta” is also common)
Now that you’ve seen the difference between fare and prendere,
try listening for these expressions when you watch Italian videos or speak with native speakers.
The more you hear them, the more natural they’ll become.