Ma icchè tu dici! 6 Italian Slang Phrases To Keep In Your Back Pocket
Italian is often known for its beautiful language, easy on the ears and perhaps even more so on the heart, which is why so many come here to learn Italian where the language was created, Tuscany. Its roots are Latin based and Dante Alghieri is considered the father of Italian language. However, we decided to dedicate our latest article on fun Italian slang phrases to use on your next visit to impress your new Italian friends, one fun phrase at a time.
1. Oh icché tu dici? (oh i keh tew dee chi) “What are you saying?!”
This Florentine phrase is lovingly used by many locals to exclaim profusely ‘What are you saying”, it’s usually used in more of a disbelief than positively but it’s usually harmless.
2. Boh!? (bo) “I Don’t Know”
Possibly the best word in the Italian language, we personally use this probably ten times a day. Where should we go for dinner? Boh? “When are you going to get a job?” boh.. One syllable yet so effective. Your Italian friends will instantly respect you.
3. Che figata! (keh fee gah ta) “How cool!”
Italians love to use this expression when they are impressed by something. Perhaps you found free parking in Florence or designer jeans for less than a 100 euros, than ‘che figata’ would be appropriate.
4. Dai! (dieeeeeee) “Come On!”
Also a favorite, this word that does sound like ‘die’ in English is also regularly used by most people to say “come on” to any given activity, mild social pressure, or to help someone running late move a little faster. On the other hand, it’s also used as a mild reprimand.
5. Figurati (Fee-guh-rah-tee) “no worries”
Someone pay for your coffee and you are aghast? Probably they would respond with “figurati’ to say ‘no big deal, ‘ or ‘it’s nothing.’ And honestly coffee only costs a euro, so it’s pretty much the best time to be generous ;-).
6. Meno Male (meh-noh mah-leh) “Thank god”
A bit more used to mean “less bad’ which is the literal translation, this phrase is most often expressed when you are relieved. Think after a hard exam or a safe plane landing.
7. Magari! (mah-gahr-ee!) “I wish- I hope”
Often wistfully used in occasions when you probably won’t come back to a given place or go in the first place, such as “Do you think you’ll ever make it to Bali?” You respond sarcastically “Magari!”.
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