Have you ever heard the word figurati in Italian? (Part 2)

Figurati is a very used Italian expression that can have different meanings. In this article you’re going to learn four uses of the word figurati.

If you want to read all the other meanings of the Italian word figurati, please read The different meanings of the Italian verb figurarsi (Part 1).

Figurati comes from the infinitive figurarsi. The verb figurarsi in Italian is used mainly in the second singular person – figurati – in the first plural person – figuriamoci – and in the second plural person – figuratevi. Finally, the verb figurarsi is used also in the polite form – si figuri.

Now, let’s see some of the meanings of the word figurati.

1. No, don’t bother

One of the meanings of figurati can be translated as no, don’t bother.

Example
+ Vuoi che vada io ritirare la lettera in posta?
– Ma no, figurati, ci vado io.
+ Do you want me to go to the post office and take the letter for you?
– No, don’t bother, I’ll go.

2. Let alone

According to the context, figurati can be translated as let alone.

Ex:
+ Dove vai in vacanza quest’anno?
– Altro che vacanza! Sono al verde! Non ho i soldi per pagare le bollette, figurati per andare in vacanza!
+ Where do you go on holiday this year?
– What? Holiday?! I’m broke! I haven’t enough money to pay the bills, let alone go on holiday!

3. There’s no way

Another use of the word figurarsi can be translated as there’s no way.

Ex: Figurati se Luigi ha preso la patente! Lui odia le auto!
There’s no way Luigi got a driving licence! He hates cars!

4. That’s a surprise

Finally, another meaning of figurarsi can be translated as that’s a surprise and it’s used sarcastically.

Ex:
+ Daniele è in ritardo
– Eh, figuriamoci!
+ Daniele is late
– Well, that’s a surprise!

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Credits

Original image by nicolagiordano