When to use c'è and ci sono

Work is getting busy, so it's a short one today.

I'm starting to get the hang of using c'è and ci sono in conversation. What are they, and when should you use them?

C'è and ci sono are both used to express the existence of something, but they differ based on the number of items being referred to:

C'è

This is the contraction of "ci" (there) and "è" (is). It's used when talking about a singular noun or a singular concept.

1. C'è un libro sul tavolo. (There is a book on the table.)
2. C'è una festa stasera. (There is a party tonight.)

Ci sono

This phrase is used when referring to plural nouns or multiple items. It combines "ci" (there) with "sono" (are).

1. Ci sono tre libri sul tavolo. (There are three books on the table.)
2. Ci sono molte persone alla festa. (There are many people at the party.)

Wrapping it up

• Use c'è for singular nouns (one item).
• Use ci sono for plural nouns (more than one item).