Italian Slang: 12 Words Locals Actually Use
Italian slang is a lively part of everyday conversation that textbooks often overlook. It reflects the culture and nuances of how Italians really communicate. Learning these expressions can help you connect better with locals and sound more natural.
Slang sticks when you say it
Reading a slang list does nothing. Say these out loud and get corrected. That is how real Italian lands.
12 Italian slang words worth knowing
| Slang | What it means | Hear |
|---|---|---|
| che figata used to express excitement or approval Quella festa è stata una figata! (That party was so cool!) | how cool | |
| fare una figura often used when talking about appearances or behavior Spero di fare una buona figura al colloquio. (I hope to make a good impression at the interview.) | to make an impression | |
| in bocca al lupo literally means 'in the wolf's mouth', used to wish someone luck In bocca al lupo per l'esame! (Good luck on the exam!) | good luck | |
| non ci posso credere used to express disbelief or surprise Non ci posso credere che hai vinto! (I can't believe you won!) | I can't believe it | |
| dai used to encourage someone or express disbelief Dai, facciamo un'altra partita! (Come on, let's play another game!) | come on | |
| che palle used to express annoyance or boredom Che palle, devo lavorare anche oggi. (What a drag, I have to work today too.) | what a drag | |
| mamma mia used to express shock or surprise Mamma mia, che notizia! (Oh my gosh, what news!) | oh my gosh | |
| fai da te used for DIY projects or self-sufficiency Ho fatto un mobile fai da te. (I made a DIY piece of furniture.) | do it yourself | |
| è una bomba used to describe something really good Questo gelato è una bomba! (This ice cream is awesome!) | it's awesome | |
| stare fresco used when someone is in a difficult situation Se non studi, stai fresco per l'esame. (If you don't study, you're in trouble for the exam.) | to be in trouble | |
| alla grande used to describe something that is going well Come va il lavoro? Alla grande! (How's work going? Great!) | great | |
| tanto di cappello used to express admiration Tanto di cappello per il tuo successo. (Hats off for your success.) | hats off |
One honest tip
Use slang sparingly and in the right context to avoid sounding forced. It's best to pick up phrases naturally in conversation rather than trying to memorize them.Don't just read it. Say it.
Slang you only read stays dead. The point of slang is sounding natural out loud, and you only get there by speaking. SPAIKING lets you practice real Italian with a coach that listens and corrects you in real time. Two free conversations to start, no card.
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Frequently asked questions
Is it okay to use slang with everyone?
It's best to use slang with friends or peers, as it may not be appropriate in formal situations.