dovresti

Dovresti is the second-person singular present conditional form of the Italian verb dovere, meaning “you should” or “you ought to.” It is used to offer advice, make recommendations, or present a polite suggestion rather than to state a necessity.

Grammatically, dovresti is used with the subject tu and is commonly followed by another verb in the infinitive, as in “Dovresti mangiare più frutta” or “Dovresti chiedere aiuto se serve.” It contrasts with deviations such as devi, which expresses obligation or necessity, and with potresti, which conveys possibility or a softer suggestion.

Origin and usage notes: The present conditional forms of dovere—io dovrei, tu dovresti, lui dovrebbe, noi dovremmo, voi dovreste, loro dovrebbero—are standard across Italian and do not show major regional variation. The tone of dovresti is generally courteous or advisory, and it is suitable in both spoken and written Italian. It can appear in hypothetical or conditional contexts as part of broader statements about what is advisable under certain circumstances.

Examples:

- Dovresti mangiare più frutta. (You should eat more fruit.)

- Dovresti studiare per l’esame. (You should study for the exam.)

- Non dovresti guidare se sei stanco. (You shouldn’t drive if you’re tired.)

- Dovresti chiedere aiuto se serve. (You should ask for help if needed.)