Word of the Day

Altrimenti(al-tree-mehn-tee)is a commonly used adverb in Italian, formed by combining the adjective altro, which means “other,” with the suffix –mente, which in Italian is used to form adverbs. The word altrimenti is typically translated into English as “or” or “otherwise,” …

The Italian verb rafforzare (rahf-fohr-tsah-rai) comes from the union of the prefix “ra-“, which indicates repetition or reinforcement, and the root noun forza. The latter, in turn, comes from the Latin adjective fortis, which gave the late Latin noun fortia. Rafforzare was used for the first time in …

The Italian word sfogarsi (sfoh-gahr-see) carries a pretty deep emotional meaning because, in the realm of emotions and psychology, the act of sfogarsi plays a vital role in interpersonal relationships and self-care.  The verb sfogarsi comes from the noun sfogo, meaning “relief” or “outlet,” and it encompasses …

Today’s word is addirittura(ad-dee-riht-too-rah). It is a fascinating term with a rich history and evolving meaning. Addirittura, originally, was spelled “a dirittura” and was used to say that an action was taking place immediately. Back in the day, then, you …

Cavarsela  (cah-vahr-sai-lah)– is a delightful Italian expression, brimming with nuances and subtle connotations. Its strictest meaning is about making it through tough circumstances, not necessarily unscathed, but certainly undeterred. In English, we can translate it with “getting away with,” “getting …

 In the realm of language, few words possess the nuanced grace of our word of the day, insinuare (een-see-noo-ah-rai), which we translate in English as “to insinuate” or “to suggest.” This verb traces its origins back to the Latin verb insinuo,  meaning “to introduce” …

Today’s word, sottosopra (soht-toh-soh-pra) has never been so popular!  Sottosopra translates with “upside down” and it is the way Italians call the terrifying alternative universe of an incredibly popular Netflix series set in the 1980s — I am sure I need to …

Today’s word is eppure(ai-puh-rai). Eppure comes from the Latin phrase et pūre, which means “and even so.” This phrase was composed of the conjunction et, meaning “and,” and the adverb pūre, meaning “purely” or “truly.” Over time, it evolved into the word eppure in Italian and gained …

Today’s word, rinomato(ree-noh-ma-toh) encapsulates the essence of elegance, respect, and high quality. The English equivalents “renowned” or “well-known,” only partially capture its full meaning.  Rinomato is not just about fame or popularity, it’s about a deep-seated respect and recognition of genuine talent …

Today’s word is caspita (cah-spee-tah), a common exclamation you have probably heard quite often from your Italian friends and relatives. It wants to express surprise and sometimes even sadness or resentment. In English, you can simply translate it with “woah” or “wow,” …