How To Speak Like A True Italian

by Mandy

So, you’ve moved to Rome and are now looking for ways to speak like a true Italian? Are you searching for some catchphrases or idioms that will impress your new friends? Here are Spotahome’s favorite phrases in Italian…

  • Hai voluto** la bicicletta****? E adesso** pedala**!**

Literal translation: You wanted the bike? Now you’ve got to ride it!

Meaning: You’ve made your bed, now lie in it.

Cycling is harder, we prefer the Italian version.

Non mi rompere i** maroni!**

Literal translation: Don’t break my chestnuts!

Meaning: Don’t bother me.

Is it nut-breaking season again?

Ogni morte** di papa.**

Literal translation: Every death of a Pope

Meaning: Once in a blue moon.

We hope Popes don’t really die that often.

Uno stomaco da struzzo**.**

Literal translation: The stomach of an ostrich.

Meaning: Someone who can eat a lot of food.

Fun fact: Ostriches have three stomaches! (truth)

**Vai****a farti **benedire!

Literal translation: Go get blessed!

Meaning: A polite way of saying a rude word (we can’t say which).

Tell them to go and get blessed, but don’t tell them where.

Brutto come la fame.

Literal translation: Ugly as hunger.

Meaning: An Italian version of the English phrase, “ugly as sin”.

*Of course… *

**Che **palle!

**Literal translation: **What balls!

**Meaning: **An English version of “What a pain!”

End of the article? Che palle!

**Want to learn more? **

Check out Kappa Italian Language School – one of the best language schools in the heart of Rome. Along with fantastic courses, tailored to each individual student, Kappa also offers PLIDA Certification Exam courses (and the exam itself) and A2 Certificates. You’ll be speaking like a true Italian in no time!