Italian colloquialisms are an important part of the Italian language and culture. They are informal expressions that are often used in everyday conversation and can add color and personality to your Italian language skills.
So, today I’m going to teach you some commonly used Italian colloquialisms.
Common Italian colloquialisms
1. Figurati!
This expression is used to say “don’t mention it” or “it’s nothing”. It is a polite way to respond when someone thanks you for something. Also, it’s an expression used to show incredulity. In English it can be translated as “that’s not possible!”. Figurati can have other meanings in Italian, if you’re curious, have a look at Have you aver heard the word figurati in Italian?
Ex: + Grazie per avermi mandato i documenti.
+ Thank you for sending me the documents
– Figurati!
– You’re welcome
Ex: + Sai, si dice che sia stato tuo cugino Francesco a rubare l’auto.
+ You know, rumor has it that it was your cousin Francesco who stole the car.
– Ma figurati! Ma è impossibile, non l’avrebbe mai fatto!
– No way, That’s not possible! He would never do that!
2. Ma va’!
This expression is used to express disbelief or surprise. It is similar to saying “no way!” in English.
Ex: + Sai, si dice che sia stato tuo cugino Francesco a rubare l’auto.
+ You know, rumor has it that it was your cousin Francesco who stole the car.
– Ma va! Ma è impossibile, non l’avrebbe mai fatto!
– No way, That’s not possible! He would never do that!
3. Figo!
This slang term is used to describe something or someone who is cool or impressive. It can be used to describe anything from a piece of clothing to a person’s personality.
Ex: Quell’attore è proprio un gran figo!
That actor is incredibly handsome!
Ex: Figo il tuo motorino!
Cool your moped!
4. Che palle!
This expression is used to express frustration or annoyance. It is similar to saying “what a pain!” or “how annoying!” in English.
Ex: Che palle! La connessione internet mi sta dando ancora problemi!
Oh shoot! My internet connection is still giving me problems!
5. Dai!
This expression is used to encourage someone to do something or to persuade them. It is similar to saying “come on!” or “let’s go!” in English. Dai has other meanings too in Italian. If you want to learn them all, have a look at Dai in Italian – What does it mean?
Ex: Dai, andiamo a prenderci un caffè, non ci vediamo da almeno 10 anni!
Come on, let’s go for some coffee, I haven’t seen you in at least 10 years!
6. Mamma mia!
This expression is used to express surprise, shock, or disbelief. It is similar to saying “oh my god!” or “wow!” in English.
Ex: Mamma mia! Ma cos’è successo? Sei pieno di lividi!
Oh my god! What happened? You’re covered in bruises!
7. Boh!
This expression is used to express uncertainty or confusion. It is similar to saying “I don’t know” or “beats me” in English.
Ex: + Secondo te, quante composizione ha creato Beethoven?
+ How many compositions do you think Beethoven created?
– Boh e io che ne so!
– What do I know!
8. Cavolo!
This expression is used to express frustration or disappointment. It is similar to saying “darn it!” or “oh shoot!” in English.
Ex: Cavolo! La connessione internet mi sta dando ancora problemi!
Oh shoot! My internet connection is still giving me problems!
These eight Italian colloquialisms are used in everyday conversation and, using them, can help you sound more like a native and can also be a fun and rewarding experience.
Do you know some Italian colloquialisms? What’s your favourite?
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Credits
Original image by Zhumabaevna
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