Untranslatable Italian Words
The Italian language is full of special words that cannot be translated in English. From dolce far niente (the sweetness of doing nothing) to magari (something that may or may not happen), these words express complex ideas that English can’t explain.
Most of these words are linked to Italian culture, heritage, and history, while others refer to emotions or sensations, representing Italian life, from cuisine to literature to sport.
Untranslatable words are part of the everyday language for Italians and are a big part of their identity. As a linguist, I find untranslatability very special: it really shows how different languages have different identities that depend on their own historical development.
I am so passionate about this topic, that I even got a tattoo with a Russian untranslatable word!
Italian Words that Don’t Exist in English
Italian Words with No English Equivalent
What I find interesting about untranslatable words, is that most of them are very funny Italian words. Of course, this underlines their originality, since they were probably invented on purpose to refer to specific situations.
Here, I will list my favorite Italian words with no English equivalent, but first, let me challenge you! Try to read the words only, guess their meaning, and then check if you were right! Let me know in the comments how many words you guessed correctly!
Magari
Magari is an Italian word that has two different meanings, depending on the context. The first one is something similar to “I wish”, while the second one corresponds to “perhaps”.
When it is used with the first meaning, it suggests that there is a very small chance that something will happen in the future but that we would really like it to occur, even if we are conscious of the fact that it very unlikely possible.
For instance
Ho letto che i Pink Floyd fanno un tour! Magari venissero in Italia!
I heard Pink Floyd are going on tour! I wish they came to Italy.
Notice that we use the imperfect subjunctive mood with this expression, because it expresses something that is not true right now, but it is rather a wish or a desire.
When it is used with the second meaning, it expresses uncertainty about an event, like in the following sentence:
Martina non risponde al telefono, magari sta dormendo.
Martina is not replying, perhaps she is sleeping.
A legend claims that magari derived from an Arabic phrase meaning “if Allah wishes”. This phrase was adopted by Sicilian dialects during Arab rule in Sicily and, now, it symbolizes Italian optimism and vibrancy, becoming an integral part of Italy’s culture.
Meriggiare
Italians have a special word for a tranquil siesta taken in the shade of a tree – meriggiare. This expression is celebrated in literature and art for its beauty and serenity, and no English word can fully describe it.
This pastime is typical of Mediterranean countries; it’s a way to take a break from work and enjoy nature. Meriggiare can last from a few minutes to several hours. It’s not only about resting but also connecting with nature.
Minestra Riscaldata
This expression literally stands for leftover cooked soup that is reheated the next day. This phrase implies that something is less desirable after it has already been experienced.
Guess what was the most common sentence I was told by my friends when they discovered I was again dating my ex partner?
Stai mangiando la minestra riscaldata!
You are eating reheated soup!
Freshness and newness are highly regarded in Italy, and so is food. Therefore, this expression links together two important concepts of the Italian culture: eating yesterday’s meal may not be as appealing as a freshly cooked meal.
Menefreghismo
This Italian untranslatable word refers to a lack of interest in something or someone. It’s usually seen as an irresponsible attitude, but it can also be interpreted as a way to free oneself from worries.
In fact, some people believe that a degree of menefreghismo can be helpful for a peaceful life, because it reduces stress and anxiety, and allows you to focus on what really matters.
Magari fossi un po’ piu menefreghista!
I wish I were a bit more careless!
Abbiocco
In Italian, abbiocco refers to the drowsy sensation that follows a large meal, which can make you feel lethargic and sluggish.
Some call this a “food coma“, but as an Italian I believe it does not fully describe the Italian experience of abbiocco. In Italy, it’s common to rest after lunch or dinner, especially if the meal is heavy. To get the most out of Italian cuisine, accept the concept of “abbiocco” and relish in its post-meal bliss.
Furbo
Multiple English words are needed to explain furbo – a trait of shrewdness or cunningness used to gain an advantage. It’s not always seen as a positive trait, because its border with cheating is very labile.
Therefore, it can be perceived as a compliment or an insult, depending on how it’s said.
Did you pretend to speak with someone standing further in the line and then skipped part of it? You are negatively “furbo”!
Did you use the steam of the cooking pasta to steam cook some vegetables saving time and resources? You are positively “furbo”!
Notice that this word is an adjective, and as all regular Italian adjectives it has four forms, depending on the gender and the number of the noun it refers to.
Master These Unique Italian Words
Through this article, you discovered the uniqueness of Italian words with no English equivalent, which demonstrate the specific language and culture of Italy, reminding you how language is deeply connected to culture.
Knowing these expressions can give you insights into different parts of the Italian way of living, expanding you perspectives and developing your communication skills, making language learning not just about words, but also about understanding people.
Practice the use of these words and embrace diversity of expression. I promise it will boost your cultural understanding and broaden your cultural horizons.
