Let's share our favorite Italian expressions and idioms!

Greetings, Italian language enthusiasts!

Let's share our favorite Italian expressions and idioms!

We all know that idioms add color and flavor to a language, so tell us which Italian expressions you love the most. Is there an idiom that you find particularly interesting or funny? Share it with the community and let's have a good laugh together! :) 

And for those who are still learning, feel free to ask about any Italian idiom you've come across but don't quite understand. Our experienced learners and moderators are here to help you unravel the linguistic mysteries.

So, which Italian idioms make you smile or scratch your head in curiosity?

Looking forward to your comments!

Great idea!  Mi piace molto “boh” (dunno)!  It covers a multitude of responses!

A presto

Chris

Ciao Chris,

Sono contento che ti sia piaciuta l'idea delle espressioni! "Boh" è davvero una di quelle parole versatili che può essere usata in molte situazioni diverse. È interessante come ogni lingua abbia le sue espressioni uniche che possono catturare perfettamente un'emozione o un pensiero. 

Se ti vengono in mente altre espressioni divertenti o interessanti, condividile pure con noi!

A presto e buon apprendimento!

HI All

This is still my favourite.

 Gli uomini sono angeli con un’ala sola. Possono volare solo abbracciati.

Just makes me happy and makes me think. I find it intersting that some expressions are just more expressive in certain languages. Some of the Portuguese expressions are so much more apt and expressive than English ones and I use those often. None of my family know any Italian, so could not use any that I have learnt

A presto

Maxie

Ciao Maxie,

you have shared a beautiful Italian expression that truly resonates! "Gli uomini sono angeli con un’ala sola. Possono volare solo abbracciati." - "Men are angels with only one wing. They can only fly while embracing."

Isn't it fascinating how certain expressions carry unique emotions and depth in different languages? Your observation about Portuguese expressions also being more expressive than English ones is a wonderful example of how languages capture the essence of culture.

Have you come across expressions in other languages that left a lasting impact on you? Share your favorites and let's celebrate the beauty of language diversity!

A presto!

Ciao a tutti

Was doing a revision and came across this one again. A tavola non s'invecchia.

I think so many cultures have last the art of sitting down to a meal with family or friends. So often one grabs a sandwich on the run in today's rushed lifestyle. Take out, boxed meals etc. I typically cook a meal from scratch everyday and when my children are home we all sit on the deck (weather permitting) and have dinner together. I believe in Some of the Med countries this is still a dalily occurence.  Something that we need to think about. So much is lost when we don't sit down to a meal together, at least once a day.

Maxie

Ciao Maxie,

The phrase "A tavola non s'invecchia" really strikes a chord. In today's fast-paced world, the art of sitting down for a meal together seems to be fading. We often opt for quick, on-the-go options, missing out on the joy of sharing a meal and conversation.

This saying reminds us of the importance of gathering around the table. It's not just about food, but about nurturing relationships and creating meaningful connections. Let's take a cue from cultures that still value this tradition and make an effort to bring it back into our lives.

Buon appetito e buona compagnia! :) 

I have recently read Ollie Richards 30-Day Mastery: Incredible Idioms! Highly recommend, along with his other 30-Day Mastery books though I was disappointed that he didn't list all the idioms with both their literal and figurative meanings. This discussion inspired me to begin rereading and the first head-scratcher is “avere sale in zucca.” According to the book it means being smart and clever. I had to look up the literal meaning: “to have salt in the pumpkin.” Hmm, I guess pumpkin without salt doesn't taste very good so it's smart/clever to have salt in the pumpkin.

Hi PeggyS-lpiy! :)

I appreciate your recommendation of Ollie Richards' book on idioms. Idioms can indeed be fascinating, and understanding their literal and figurative meanings can be both fun and insightful.

The idiom "avere sale in zucca" is a great example. As you mentioned, its literal translation is "to have salt in the pumpkin," which might sound a bit strange at first. However, when you understand the figurative meaning, which is "to be smart or clever," it becomes clear.

The connection between the literal and figurative meanings often relies on cultural or historical references. In this case, it might suggest that just as salt enhances the flavor of pumpkin, being smart or clever enhances one's abilities or personality.

It's wonderful that you're delving into Italian idioms and exploring their nuances. Idioms are not only linguistic gems but also windows into the culture and mindset of a language's speakers.

If you come across more intriguing idioms or have questions about them, feel free to share or ask!

A presto, 

Enxhi

Ciao a tutti

Over and above idioms, how about songs? Andrea Bocelli is a favourite of mine. Like his Spanish ones too. Was doing a very boring chore, Ironing and was listening to him. Was gratifying to hear and understand  more to. Someone posted the Bella ciao song. Listened to it a long time ago and had no idea what most of it meant. Listened again today and understood it all. Also the opera song Voi che sapete, my all time favourite.

I find using music a great tool for learning and takes some of the boredom out of dreary grammar

A presto

Maxie

Ciao Maxie,

Grazie mille for sharing your experience with music in language learning! Music is indeed a fantastic tool for learning a new language, as it combines melody and lyrics, making it easier to remember words and phrases. Andrea Bocelli's songs, both in Italian and Spanish, are beautiful and can be a great way to immerse yourself in the language.

Understanding the lyrics of songs like "Bella ciao" and "Voi che sapete" is a big accomplishment and a testament to your language learning journey. Music can be an enjoyable way to reinforce your language skills and make the learning process more engaging.

Here are some more Italian songs that you might enjoy listening to while practicing your language skills:

- Volare by Domenico Modugno - A classic Italian song that's known worldwide.
- Con te partirò (Time to Say Goodbye) by Andrea Bocelli - Another beautiful song by Bocelli that gained international fame.
- Nessun Dorma from Puccini's opera Turandot - A powerful and iconic aria.
- O Sole Mio by Eduardo Di Capua - A famous Neapolitan song.
- Il Mondo by Jimmy Fontana - A romantic Italian ballad.
- L'Italiano by Toto Cutugno - A catchy song about the Italian language and culture.
- Baila Morena by Zucchero - A fusion of Italian and Spanish, perfect for language learners.
- La Bamba by Ritchie Valens - While not Italian, this song can help you practice basic Italian vocabulary.

If you have any more song recommendations or language learning tips to share, feel free to let us know. A presto!