Learn Hardcore Italian: In questa libreria, ci vogliono solo pochi euro per un libro usato. - In this bookstore, you only need a few euros for a used book.

In Italian, libreria means a bookstore rather than a library. The word for “library” in Italian is biblioteca, which refers to a place where books are lent, not sold.

Why is the impersonal construction ci vogliono used here instead of simply saying it “costs” something?

Ci vogliono is an impersonal expression that literally means “it takes” or “are needed”. It emphasizes that only a few euros are required, rather than directly stating a price. This construction is common in Italian when talking about time, money, or other quantities needed.

What role does the pronoun ci play in ci vogliono?

The pronoun ci is used as a dummy element in the impersonal construction. It doesn’t refer to any specific object or location; instead, it helps set up the phrase that a particular amount (in this case, a few euros) is needed. Essentially, it’s a fixed part of the expression.

Why is the verb vogliono in the plural form?

Though the sentence is impersonal, the verb vogliono agrees in number with its implied subject, which is “pochi euro”. Since euros is plural, the verb must also be in the plural form—a feature common in Italian when the required quantity (the subject) is plural.

What is the function of the preposition per in this context?

The preposition per introduces the purpose or target of the needed euros. It connects the cost with what it is intended for—in this sentence, for a used book. Thus, it clarifies that only a few euros are required to purchase a used book.

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