Il bambino è sorpreso che tu sappia già gestire così tanti compiti insieme.

The child is surprised that you already know how to handle so many tasks at once.

Breakdown of Il bambino è sorpreso che tu sappia già gestire così tanti compiti insieme.

• tu: you
• essere: to be
• il bambino: the child
• così: so
• che: that
• sorpreso: surprised
• sapere: to know
• già: already
• gestire: to handle
• il compito: the task

Questions & Answers about Il bambino è sorpreso che tu sappia già gestire così tanti compiti insieme.

Why is the subjunctive mood used in "tu sappia" instead of the indicative form "tu sai"?

In Italian, when the main clause expresses an emotion like surprise—as in "Il bambino è sorpreso" (The child is surprised)—the subordinate clause that follows typically requires the subjunctive mood. This is because the speaker is conveying a subjective reaction rather than stating an objective fact. Thus, "tu sappia" is used to underline that the capability to manage many tasks is viewed as an unexpected or noteworthy trait.

How is the entire sentence structured in terms of main and subordinate clauses?

The sentence is divided into two parts. The main clause is "Il bambino è sorpreso" (The child is surprised), which presents the emotion or reaction. The subordinate clause, introduced by "che", is "tu sappia già gestire così tanti compiti insieme", which explains the reason for the surprise. This subordinate clause uses the subjunctive mood due to its connection with the emotional state expressed in the main clause.

What is the role of the adverb "già" in the sentence?

The adverb già means "already" and is used to emphasize that the person being addressed has attained the ability to manage many tasks sooner than expected. Its placement before the verb "gestire" highlights that the skill or accomplishment was acquired earlier than might be anticipated, which is the source of the child's surprise.

What does the verb "gestire" mean in this context?

"Gestire" translates to "to manage" or "to handle". In this sentence, it suggests that you are capable of effectively handling or organizing a large number of tasks simultaneously. It points to your practical ability to keep different duties under control, which is considered impressive by the child.

Why is the pronoun "tu" used in the subordinate clause?

The pronoun tu is the informal singular form of "you" in Italian. Its use indicates a direct and familiar address to one person. This choice sets a casual tone and makes it clear that the remark about your ability to manage tasks is directed personally, rather than in a formal or impersonal manner.

What does the phrase "così tanti compiti insieme" convey in the sentence?

The phrase "così tanti compiti insieme" means "so many tasks together." "Così tanti" emphasizes the large number or overwhelming amount, while "insieme" implies that these tasks are being handled simultaneously. This combination underscores the impressive nature of your multitasking ability, which is precisely why the child is taken aback.