Planning to study abroad in Italy? Beyond the iconic landmarks, endless pasta, and rich espresso, there’s something essential that will help you truly blend in with the locals: Italian slang. Whether you’re navigating bustling markets, hanging out with new friends, or just trying to sound less like a tourist, knowing a few key Italian slang terms can make all the difference.
Here’s a quick guide to the top 10 Italian slang expressions that will give you a taste of Italy and help you connect with locals on a whole new level!
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Top 5 Slang Italian Words
If you’re looking to intern abroad or study abroad in Florence, Milan, or Rome, you’ll want to get familiar with popular Italian slang words. These words go beyond textbook Italian and capture the essence of everyday conversations, giving you an insider’s edge to sound like a local. Let’s start with the top five slang Italian words!
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Italian Slang Word #1: Boh
Meaning: “I don’t know.”
Italians use “boh” as a quick and casual way to express uncertainty or lack of knowledge. It’s equivalent to a shrug.
For example: “Non so cosa vogliamo mangiare stasera; boh, forse pizza?” (“I don’t know what we want to eat tonight; I don’t know, maybe pizza?”)
Italian Slang Word #2: Magari
Meaning: “I wish,” “If only,” or “Maybe.”
“Magari” expresses hope or a wish, but Italians also use it casually to say “maybe.”
For example: “Vorrei davvero viaggiare in Italia quest’estate; magari potessi!” (“I would really love to travel to Italy this summer; if only I could!”)
Italian Slang Word #3: Figurati
Meaning: “No worries” or “Don’t mention it.”
Use “figurati” to respond politely to a “thank you” or to reassure someone. It’s also a casual way to say “no problem.”
For example: “Figurati, è stato un piacere!” (“Don’t mention it, it was my pleasure!”)
Italian Slang Word #4: Raga
Meaning: “Guys” or “Dudes.”
“Raga” is an informal way to refer to a group of friends or peers. It’s often used among younger people and can be used to address both males and females collectively.
For example: “Raga, siete pronti per la festa di stasera?” (“Guys, are you ready for the party tonight?”)
Italian Slang Word #5: Bello
Meaning: “Nice” or “Beautiful”
While “bello” literally means “beautiful,” it’s frequently used in a slang context to express that something is great or appealing. It can refer to anything from a person to an event or an experience.
For example: “Questo ristorante ha un’atmosfera davvero bella.” (“This restaurant has a really nice atmosphere.”)
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Top 5 Italian Slang Phrases
Mastering these Italian slang phrases will elevate your everyday conversations and leave a lasting impression on locals. Let’s dive into the top five Italian slang phrases!
Italian Slang Phrase #1: Che figata!
Meaning: “How cool!” or “That’s awesome!”
Use “che figata!” to express excitement or admiration about something exciting or impressive.
For example: “Sei stato a Venezia? Che figata! Devi raccontarmi tutto!” (“Have you been to Venice? How cool! You have to tell me everything!”)
Italian Slang Phrase #2: Non vedo l’ora
Meaning: “I can’t wait”
Use “non vedo l’ora” to express excitement or anticipation about something coming up, like a trip or an event.
For example: “Domani andiamo a visitare il Colosseo. Non vedo l’ora!” (“Tomorrow we’re going to visit the Colosseum. I can’t wait!”)
Italian Slang Phrase #3: In bocca al lupo
Meaning: “Good luck” (literally: “in the wolf’s mouth”)
This phrase is used to wish someone good luck, especially before a big event like a test or performance. The correct response is “crepi” (“may it die”).
For example: “Domani ho la mia presentazione finale; in bocca al lupo a me!” (“I have my final presentation tomorrow; good luck to me!”)
Italian Slang Phrase #4: Mi raccomando
Meaning: “Make sure” or “Don’t forget”
“Mi raccomando” is used to emphasize or remind someone to be careful or to pay attention to something.
For example: “Mi raccomando, porta un ombrello; potrebbe piovere oggi!” (“Make sure to bring an umbrella; it might rain today!”)
Italian Slang Phrase #5: Ci sta
Meaning: “That works” or “Makes sense”
“Ci sta” is a flexible phrase you can use to agree with someone or say that something makes sense.
For example: “Se andiamo al mare dopo le lezioni, ci sta!” (“If we go to the beach after class, that works!”)
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Take Your Studies to Italy
Learning these slang Italian words and phrases is just the start of your adventure. Each new word and expression will help you connect more deeply with locals, discover hidden gems, and feel right at home in the lively rhythm of Italian life. Embrace the language, explore with confidence, and let Italy become part of your story!
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*This blog post was written with the assistance of AI technology
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