Italian Idioms: 12 Expressions That Don't Translate
Italian idioms can be quite tricky for learners because they often don't make sense when translated word-for-word. They reflect the culture and humor of the Italian language, which can lead to some funny misunderstandings. Using idioms correctly can really spice up your conversations!
Idioms land when you say them
Reading an idiom does nothing. Say it out loud and get corrected. That is how real Italian sinks in.
12 Italian idioms worth knowing
In bocca al lupo
Literally: In the wolf's mouth
Means: Good luck
Used to wish someone good luck, especially before a challenge.
Chi dorme non piglia pesci
Literally: He who sleeps doesn't catch fish
Means: You snooze, you lose
Used to encourage someone to take action instead of being lazy.
Avere le mani in pasta
Literally: To have hands in the dough
Means: To be involved in something
Used when someone is involved in a situation or business.
Essere in gamba
Literally: To be on leg
Means: To be smart or capable
Used to describe someone who is clever or resourceful.
Non avere peli sulla lingua
Literally: To not have hairs on the tongue
Means: To speak one's mind
Used for someone who is very direct or blunt.
Prendere due piccioni con una fava
Literally: To catch two pigeons with one bean
Means: To kill two birds with one stone
Used when achieving two goals with a single action.
Fare orecchie da mercante
Literally: To make merchant's ears
Means: To turn a deaf ear
Used when someone ignores something intentionally.
Mettere il carro davanti ai buoi
Literally: To put the cart before the oxen
Means: To get ahead of oneself
Used when someone is doing things in the wrong order.
Tirare le cuoia
Literally: To pull the leather
Means: To kick the bucket
A humorous way to refer to dying.
Essere un pesce fuor d'acqua
Literally: To be a fish out of water
Means: To feel out of place
Used when someone is uncomfortable in a situation.
Avere un diavolo per capello
Literally: To have a devil for a hair
Means: To be very angry
Used when someone is extremely upset or furious.
Cercare il pelo nell'uovo
Literally: To look for hair in the egg
Means: To nitpick
Used when someone is overly critical or finds faults in minor details.
One honest tip
Try to use idioms in context rather than forcing them into every conversation.Don't memorize. Use them.
Idioms you only read stay stuck on the page. They come alive when you drop one into a real conversation. SPAIKING lets you practice real Italian with a coach that listens and corrects you. Two free conversations to start.
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Frequently asked questions
Why are idioms important in Italian?
Idioms add color and depth to the language, making conversations more engaging and authentic.