portarmi

Portarmi is the cliticized infinitive form of the Italian verb portare, created by attaching the pronoun mi (for me) to the infinitive. This linguistic construction yields a pronominal infinitive that expresses bringing or carrying something for oneself or on one’s behalf. It is used to indicate actions performed by the subject with a benefit or responsibility for the speaker.

Morphology and usage

Portarmi consists of the verb stem port- plus the infinitive suffix -are, with the clitic pronoun mi appended at the end. The form functions as an infinitive clause that can be the object of a finite verb (modal or other controlling verb) or part of a larger verbal complex. It often appears after verbs such as dovere, volere, or potere, or in contexts where the speaker specifies that the action is for their own use or benefit. For example, portarmi un documento would mean to bring myself a document (for my use). The exact nuance depends on context and the accompanying object.

Notes

While portarmi is standard in Italian, speakers frequently adjust word order for emphasis or clarity, and in some registers more literal expressions like portare con me may be preferred. The pronoun mi marks the beneficiary or the person for whom the action is performed, rather than the direct object of the action.

See also

Italian grammar, clitic pronouns, infinitives.